Replies

1. 
   david_thodal | Feb 25, 2002 08:21pm | #1

   *
   It is not necessary to have t & g flooring, but it helps minimize the space between the boards that may develope due to seasonal movement. If if start with a dry subfloor and dry flloring you can greatly reduce this within 6" flooring.

   Never tryed masonry nails as to holding in wood. The TREMONT work okay but are pricey. If you do not necessarily want the look of cut nails, I use 6-8d screw shank nails for face nailing. I soak them in acid first then peroxide to tarnish the nail heads, before install. They can be hand driven or shot using a framing nailer with flush attachment setting.

   What ever nails you choice to use, it is important to hit your joists, two nails per board per joist.

   walk good

   david

1. 
   Rich_Watkins | Feb 27, 2002 03:02am | #2

   *6" planks should be t&g. The tongues and grooves should fit together with about 1/32" slop to allow the flooring to lay flat, fit together nicely and allow seasonal wood movement. Boards should be nailed every 8" with 2 1/2" flooring nails or staples through the tounges. Hitting joists doesn't matter, at 8" spacing you'll hit a lot of them anyway. You should have 15# felt down first, you won't know where the joists are. Planks should also be screwed and plugged 1 1/2" from the ends and 2" from the edges. I always use 1 1/4" trim head screws for this and 1/4" tapered plugs which I cut myself from various stock and match color. After the floor is finished they are nearly invisable.As always acclimate and check moisture content before installation.Rich