Which Way To Lay Plywood On Floor Joists

Which Way to Lay Plywood on Floor Joists

When it comes to installing plywood subflooring, there are two main ways to lay it: perpendicular or parallel to the floor joists. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand the differences before you start your project.

Perpendicular to Floor Joists

Laying plywood perpendicular to the floor joists offers a number of benefits. First, it helps to distribute the weight of the floor more evenly, reducing the risk of sagging or buckling. Second, it creates a more rigid subfloor, which is less likely to squeak or creak. Third, it can help to minimize the appearance of seams and gaps in the finished floor.

However, laying plywood perpendicular to the floor joists can also be more time-consuming and difficult than laying it parallel. This is because you need to cut the plywood to length and then fit it into the joist bays. Additionally, you may need to use more nails or screws to secure the plywood, which can increase the cost of the project.

Parallel to Floor Joists

Laying plywood parallel to the floor joists is the faster and easier method. This is because you can simply cut the plywood to the length of the joists and then nail or screw it down. Additionally, you may need to use fewer nails or screws, which can save you money.

However, laying plywood parallel to the floor joists can also have some disadvantages. First, it can create a weaker subfloor, which is more likely to sag or buckle. Second, it can make it more difficult to hide the seams and gaps in the finished floor. Third, it can make it more difficult to install flooring over the plywood, such as carpet or tile.

Which Method Is Right for You?

The best way to lay plywood on floor joists depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a strong and rigid subfloor, then laying plywood perpendicular to the floor joists is the best option. However, if you are looking for a quick and easy installation, then laying plywood parallel to the floor joists is the better choice.

Additional Tips

* When laying plywood, always use nails or screws that are long enough to penetrate at least 1 1/4 inches into the joists. * Drive nails or screws at an angle through the face of the plywood and into the joists. * Leave a 1/8-inch gap between the edges of the plywood sheets to allow for expansion and contraction. * Cover the plywood with a layer of roofing felt or tar paper before installing the finished floor.