Engineered I joists offer many advantages. The floor joists can be purchased in varying depths with different flanges on the top and bottom. The I joists install in the same way as a traditional wood floor joist and make for a stiffer, squeakless floor.
Engineered I joists now have a uniform set of manufacturing rules for quality control. The following is a list of the manufacturers of engineered I joists who make joists that meet the PRI-400 guidelines.
Engineered I joists are similar to traditional floor joists, but have a few special care requirements. I joists should be stored upright and not come in contact with moisture and need to be blocked to prevent rollover. Here are some tips for installation and cutting holes in an I joist.
There are all sorts of places to get literature for Plywood and Oriented Strand Board (OSB board), but the best place is the Engineered Wood Association. This group produces some of the best descriptive booklets, technical manuals and brochures in the world.
Oriented strand board (OSB board) can be used for many things that plywood can do. However, it does have its limitations. In some cases, treated plywood is a cheaper and just as useful choice. Be sure to read the label on OSB board to make sure you're purchasing the right kind for your job.
Plywood and OSB should be put under roof as soon as possible when building. Category 1 plywood and OSB could grow mold from standing water.
Wood I joists, a type of engineered lumber that resembles steel I beams, are excellent building materials. Some come with pre-cut holes or can be drilled into. However, in fire conditions having wood I joists can be disastrous.
Plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) are similar, yet different. They are made similarly yet react differently when they get wet. OSB may be less expensive, but if cuts are made to the surface, it loses its waterproof quality.
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