Probably not the place to ask this, but why are you not supposed to float flooring thicker than 3/8"?
AND
Why can you not just seal the concrete well and not put a vapor barrier down when gluing flooring to concrete?

maybe some other questions to come later. we'll see if i get any decent responses. thanks!

5/2/2006 11:02:39 PM

because the thicker the wood, the more it will expand and contract with the seasons. over 3/8th's the wood will likely swell and contract unevenly causing gaps and bumps. Nailing it limits the amount of movement during the year and keeps the floor regular.

you CAN get away with just a sealer on concrete, but it's not a good idea long term. Most seals will breakdown over time and IF water does make it through it will permeate quickly.

5/2/2006 11:11:47 PM

does it matter with regard to the permeability of the concrete that the house was built in the 50's?

i'll probably end up just layin a vapor barrier and then 3/4" treated plywood and nail to that...

[Edited on May 2, 2006 at 11:16 PM. Reason : edit]

5/2/2006 11:15:42 PM

that would work fine I would think.

5/2/2006 11:20:43 PM