I have three questions on a current remodel project:
1 Building paper behind siding. I have read all the articles in fine Homebuilding concering weep screens behind cedar siding. the Architect and I have decided to pre seal the siding and install it directly to 30 lb building paper. My question is – does 30# retain more moisture than two layers of 15#? I’m open to recommendations.
2 Wood floors over radiant heated float crete over moist sup floor. I’m installing bamboo flooring over sleepers that are sandwiched in float crete. I have 18″ of crawl space to dirt in a moist, salt sea air environment. Any suggestions on insulation, vapor barriers, or ideas so as not to have problems down the line?
3 scribing sleeper techniques. Looking for fast, easy way to scribe and cut sleepers to level a floor from a min. 7/8″ to 1 7/8″. I need 7/8″ for radiant tubingh, and the floor dips and wiggles up to an inch in places. What is an easy scribe method to achieve a level plane?
Replies
Dear Jed,
By the numbers:
1. All regular felt is terrible. Try Roofer's Select or ShingleMate. Both are superior in every way.
Also, I'm not crazy about vented siding either. Cut some strips of felt and staple to the sheathing. This will space the siding off the wall and provide a capillary break. Quick and easy.
2. It's essential that you build your crawl space as an indoor volume. Think of it as a very short basement. Leave no exposed soil. Insulate the perimeter.
3. I've done this too many times and don't have the fast, easy way yet. First establish your plane with lines around the room. Put your sleeper stock in place and scribe the bottom into the existing floor with a compass or a pencil on a sliding block. Cut this and touch up the fit to your satisfaction. Then tack it down snug and snap a line across the top from your wall layout, and cut that.
Yup, two cuts for each sleeper. It starts to look like the ribs of a boat, and about as much work. I hope someone has a better way.
Wishing you luck, Fred