Floor Framing

[Sierrajack]

I have seen and read where folks are having warpage problems when cutting 2x4s for the floor frames. Even some of the best 2x2s warp and are hard to deal with. Want an absolute straight piece to work with? How about trying Trex deck boards? The are available in a 2x4 size, wont splinter, chip, warp or rot. Trex is a little more expensive than a regular 2x4 however, the foundation of any building project should be the best you can make it. Trex glues and screws just like regular wood and it has a tendency to hold screws a little more securely.

[halfdome, Danny]

I have seen and read where folks are having warpage problems when cutting 2x4s for the floor frames. Even some of the best 2x2s warp and are hard to deal with. Want an absolute straight piece to work with? How about trying Trex deck boards? The are available in a 2x4 size, wont splinter, chip, warp or rot. Trex is a little more expensive than a regular 2x4 however, the foundation of any building project should be the best you can make it. Trex glues and screws just like regular wood and it has a tendency to hold screws a little more securely.

Trex is sawdust and plastic and is not recommended for anything structural. Danny

[Sierrajack]

Danny,
Why do people make decks out of it? I know it's not supposed to be used as a load bearing material however, the floor frames are laid flat and the only load placed on it would be exactly like a deck.

[bobhenry]

Trus Joist Timber Strand LSL a composit stud in 2x4 and 2x6 standard configeration. Primary use is in kitchen and bath walls where dead die straight walls are needed for cabinetry and plumbing fixtures to line up. No twisting , cupping or bowing. A super stud ( like me ) . Any lumber yard can order , many big yards carry them. Like any new and improved product hold on to your wallet. Will be about 4 to 5 times more expensive than a standard 2x4 but it is a tried and proven framing product and I can guarantee the will stay straight !!!

[halfdome, Danny]

Danny,
Why do people make decks out of it? I know it's not supposed to be used as a load bearing material however, the floor frames are laid flat and the only load placed on it would be exactly like a deck.

Jack, next time your at the home improvement center hold up one end of a trex board and see how much it will flex. Now put some pressure on it and it will really flex. It's only suppose to be used for the top decking with real wood framing properly spaced per trex mfr specs. Last time I made a deck I use Tiger deck (Home Depot) which is an exotic hardwood and it's a lot stronger, cheaper & a beautiful decking material that will last about 40 years. Danny