Behind every attractive tile job is a durable substrate. A master tiler shows how proper use of backerboard and waterproof membranes ensures a lasting finish at tubs, countertops, and floors. More
Q: It is my understanding that plywood and OSB should always be installed with space between the sheets for expansion. Apparently, always isn’t always. I am just now beginning a project on an unfinished house in New England that has had the 1-inch OSB subflooring glued and nailed to the joists, with the tongue-and-groove joints also glued, without any spaces between sheets. There seems to be some swelling at the joints, most of which seems to be excess adhesive. My plan was to sand the joints flush, install underlayment, and then lay the Terra Cotta tile my client requested. I have two questions. When and why is it okay to install sheet goods without a space between them? Can you recommend the best underlayment for this situation? More
Q: Do the coatings on power-driven "gun nails" hold as well in the wood as a common nail driven by hand? More
Referral network for insurance repairs, ambitious research into storm-resistant houses, MSDS for sawdust More
