I have a large, covered (roofed) screened porch on my cottage on which I’d like to install new wood flooring. Currently, the floor consists of very short nap indoor-outdoor carpet that was installed approximately 20 years ago. The carpet is in good shape, and the floor smooth and level. My questions are (1) what type of boards (cedar, pressure treated, pine, other) would be best for this situation?, and (2) can I install the wood flooring directly over the indoor-outdoor carpet?
A couple of other notes: the porch gets low to moderate wear and tear from humans only (no pets), and it’s totally protected from the elements by a full roof with substantial overhangs. There are a couple of sitting areas, and a dining table with chairs, so the new flooring would get a fair amount of wear from chairs being moved back and forth. I’m considering both standard 5/4″ x 6″ decking, and tongue and groove.
Replies
For a covered porch with light use, cedar or pressure-treated pine would both be great choices. Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and looks beautiful, but PT pine is more budget-friendly.
Definitely don't install over the carpet though. You'll want a solid subfloor for the wood flooring to rest on. Best to remove the carpet first.
As for 5/4" vs. tongue and groove, either would work! Tongue and groove might offer a slightly smoother feel underfoot.
4/4 x6 will look like a deck while t&g will look like a floor. Soft woods like cedar and pine will dent and scratch easily especially if chairs are dragged across the floor. Dirt will collect between the 5/4 boards since there is an existing floor underneath. Be sure to remove the carpet before installing the new material.