Overboarding with Ply - WPB and BS standards

[SteveyJ]

I've lost the question over this post. Are you asking what the difference is between spruce and hardwood ply??

Spruce - generally quick growing softwood is used (cheaper option)

Hardwood - dense wood grown for a lot longer therefore generally more expensive.

The standard that qualifies ply as WBP is nothing to do with the type of wood used, its the quality and bond of the glue used to layer the sheet. Its this standard that determines if the lamination of the wood will qualify to be used in damp, humid conditions or areas subject to moisture, steam etc.

All of which is irrelevant in my opinion as water and damp will rot, deteriate and manipulate wood regardless of spruce softwood or old english oak.

Thanks for this Aligage, that does explain it. Can I ask then what you would do if you don't like or use ply? Do you use the hardibacker board, do you use wedi, or what? If you were to lay a floor in a bathroom with T&G base what would the steps you would take to ensure a crack free and solid installation. As I've said before always used ply before and never had a problem but maybe I'm behind with the times and just being old and stubborn and need to move forward?
Cheers Steve

 

[AliGage]

Sorry for only just catching up with this now.

My level and choice of prep would depend on a few variables from budget, height restrants, levelness and stability of substrate i'm over boarding.
I can run through a typical example?

Bathroom floor, T&G (MR) chipboard, deflection free and no more than 5mm out of level.

Ensure floor IS deflection free and over board with 6mm hardie backer board. Glued and screwed using 1" screws.
SLC floor area to bring level.
Glue Ditra matting.
Ready for tiling.