Bamboo floor underlayment over crawl space
indigo51
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
I am trying to find the best underlayment for a solid stranded bamboo floor on osb over a crawl space. I was thinking of using 30 lb felt. This would lead to the hardwood floor being 1/2 shorter than a tiled floor in an ajoining room (kitchen). Is there any modern building science guidlines for incorporating a cork underlayment into this situation? I was under the assumption 1/2 plywood on the sublfloor could lead to moisture problems between the two. Any advise/input would be appreciated as I am not a contractor, just a homeowner trying to put in a proper floor free of moisture issues.
thank you
Replies
iindigo
First, deal with the surface of the crawl-is there visqueen properly installed over the crawl?
The felt is a good idea, where you put it is a good question. I might consider adding the proper underlay (plywood) to bring the finish ht. with bamboo up to where you want it (flush?). In between the two? not sure on that one.
But, another form of slip sheet needs to go on top of the underlayment, which could be your felt paper or other form of moisture control.
How are you fastening the bamboo and what does the manufacturer say about a proper underlay and it's installation?
Further, it's a good idea to screw the original sub to the joists and sometimes makes sense to screw the underlay as well (depending on its thickness and what you use.
When in doubt...
...read the instructions. I'll bet the flooring manufacturer has a say on this.
Manufacturer said plywood to raise up height is acceptable. Will moisture get between osb and ply? Is there a practice of putting felt paper betwee layers? or is this not really a concern?
thank you
one more time
Did you deal with the source or transfer of moisture in the crawl itself?