Flooring

[Fred]

I have read several questions re: plywood vs particle board. Plywood seems far superior to particle board based on responses by the experts.Do you put OSB in the same catagory as particle board or is OSB a different and better product? OSB is being touted by at least one manufacturer we are interested in as a superior product to plywood. If it is superior, should it be sealed or coated with a product to keep moisture out?

[Ron]

Go to the "Ask the Expert" message board and look at Roy T Bonneys reply to David Lynn "Horton vs Fleetwood" question. He answers your question in full.

[Randy Eaton]

Hello Fred,

I recommend using plywood as a sub-floor in a manufactured home, it will not swell like particleboard when exposed to water. I believe plywood is a good choice but I am not against using particleboard if it has been treated with a water-resistant coating. Cresdeck is one product that is being used in the industry successfully. The problems with standard particleboard is, when exposed to water the particleboard will swell causing expensive repair bills. Particleboard that has been treated to resist water is dark brown in color and comes with a warranty. When touring different display models look for exposed sub-floors to determine which product is being used. Standard (yellow) particleboard is a poor choice and should be avoided if possible.

Randy Eaton
www.buymfghome.com/

[Richard Wilde]

Wow . I hope I caught you in time.. I Have particle board flooring - I had a plumbing leak caused by a repairman - now I have MUSH for flooring . . . Wish I had looked before I leaped into a 'house' that won't last as long as the mortgage....