Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Hardwood plank to joist orientation Q

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wxmechanic
12-01-03, 09:21 PM
I have a subfloor of 1.5" T/G with 3/8" PB. I'm installing 3/4" T/G hardwood strips(3 1/4" wide planks). None of my fasteners drive beyond the subfloor. Do i NEED to lay my floor perpendicular to the joists for strength? Seems like all the books emphasize this, but it means some of the plank orientations will be screwed up aesthetically. I'm kind of lost on the reasoning for perpendicular layout to the floor joists. Can anyone help?

thanks :confused:

twelvepole
12-01-03, 10:46 PM
Particleboard is not an acceptable subfloor for 3/4" thick solid hardwood. The flooring is laid perpendicular to the joists because the joists support the flooring. For the bible on hardwood installation, go to www.installingwoodfloors.com.