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Floored by choice?


To assist self-builders eploring the myriad structural timber ooring options out there, Scott Wolters of EGGER UK provides a brief overview of the choices and solutions


ooring boards, there are three main types. Firstly, there is uncoated, P5 chipboard, which is the base form of timber-based structural ooring systems. Secondly, there are ooring boards with a peelable, film layer. This layer is designed to protect the board against moisture ingress and provides an additional barrier against moisture upon completion of the ooring. Once construction is complete, the top layer can be peeled off revealing the clean structural ooring system beneath, which will have remained free of plaster or paint stains from other works. Finally, if you want to go a step further, consider a ooring solution that features a thermally bonded, hard-wearing and anti-slip surface on both sides of the board. This can again proide protection against moisture ingress during construction or even leaking pipes after the completion of works, as well as from damage or wear and tear from site traffic.


I’M LOOKING FOR A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION, WHAT’S BEST?


Given the ongoing climate crisis, we’re all keen to do our bit for the environment. For those building their own home, this can present the perfect opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint, by choosing building products and systems that offer a greener alternative. When looking for sustainable structural ooring, there is one clear winner – timber. An inherently sustainable material, timber can be replenished without releasing unnecessary carbon, unlike other alternatives. Additionally, timber is ideal for recycling and reusing,


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maintaining its strength and value over time. s a result, you will find many timber-based products often contain recycled wood and sawmill by-products, further enhancing its sustainability credentials. If you’re keen to go green, look out for manufacturers who source their timber from PEFC or FSC accredited forests local to their production plants, meaning that timber used in a ooring board is coming from a sustainable source.


WHAT DIFFERENT TYPES OF TIMBER STRUCTURAL FLOORING ARE AVAILABLE? When it comes to timber-based structural


WHAT ARE THE APPLICATIONS OF EACH OF THESE PRODUCTS? Each of the product types mentioned have their own ‘ideal’ applications. For example, uncoated P5 chipboard is great for both internal refurbishments (whether that be a loft extension or interior renovation) and new builds, as well as modular and timber frame constructions. While chipboard with a peelable top layer should be considered for projects where the ooring boards are installed early on, such as in timber frame houses, where the ooring can often be left exposed to the elements. Finally, a chipboard with a thermally bonded layer is perfect for those looking for a structural ooring system that can be left installed for long periods – up to  days. This is especially useful for self-build projects, where it can be easy to run over schedule or face delays. These types of ooring boards can prove invaluable in this scenario, proiding peace of mind that the ooring won’t suffer damage due to prolonged exposure to the elements. This solution is best used in areas


where there is an increased risk of exposure to moisture, such as in loft or basement conversions, and again in open or eposed enironments. nderoor heating systems can also be used with these types of oorboards, further extended their versatility.


HOW ARE THESE PRODUCTS INSTALLED? Whether you’re looking to get hands on with installation or you hire a


jan/feb 2024


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