There is a vital difference between Plywood and OSB panels and sheathing that are classified as ‘Exterior’ and ‘Exposure 1’. Utilizing the wrong panels or sheathing could compromise the structure which is exposed to weather. The classifications are based on material composition as well as the durability of the adhesives utilized in the manufacturing process.
The appeal of wood is its natural makeup and warm texture. But that which most attracts us to hardwood flooring is also the reason for most of the call backs flooring installers have to deal with. When problems occur, inspectors must determine who the culprit is and it’s usually moisture. Understanding how moisture affects a flooring and sub-flooring installation can help you to avoid problems and expensive call backs.
The success of your flooring job rests in no small part on the quality of your sub-flooring. This is due to the fact that mistakes in the sub-flooring will show in the floor above and cause everything from squeaky to uneven floors. Preventing issues with proper sub-flooring installation is a lot cheaper than call backs.
Call backs for squeaky floors can be extremely costly and time consuming. When squeaks originate in the sub-flooring, these call backs can really eat into your already slim profit margins. Here are some tips on installation techniques that can help to prevent the dreaded squeaky floors.
Contrary to popular belief, squeaky floors are not just an ‘old home’ problem. Most squeaks originate in the finished flooring (especially from poor installation of hardwood) but occasionally they can be in the sub-floor system if the proper care is not taken during installation. Sub-flooring systems built to minimum code requirements are more susceptible to squeaking over time.
Using expansion joints allows your flooring and sub-flooring to expand without affecting the look and feel of your floors.
Most clients will think that hardwood flooring is a ‘set it and forget it’ aspect of their homes, and few will realise the importance of maintaining their indoor environment in order to ensure that their hardwood flooring stays pristine. When clients don’t maintain a consistent environment, you get expensive callbacks and a lack of customer satisfaction.
Calcium chloride and sodium chloride are not recommended by the APA for melting ice which has formed on OSB sub-floor paneling such as Truflor. Read what the Ol’ Sage Builder has to say on this matter.
From flooring to wall decor and everything in between, unfinished OSB is the latest trend in modern interior design circles. The ‘unfinished’ look takes advantage of the rich texture and pattern that OSB provides to add a little flair. Plus it’s cost-effective and eco-friendly.
