Hello, first post!

I have a few questions that some people maybe able to help me out with.

1. I have a new house that the builder is installing carpet in and upon closing, we are going to rip up the carpet and install hardwood (builder wouldn't give any carpet credits, ugh.) The subfloor is 5/8 OSB. Should I lay down an extra 1/2 or 5/8 ply on top of the OSB before installing the hardwood (solid birch.)

2. My project will be about 700sq 1st floor and 780sq 2nd floor. About how long is this project going to take a complete newbie roughly? I did spend about 2 hours reading on this forum and will continue to learn for the next month before I start the project.

3. Is there really any disadvantages to going with birch over hard maple other than looks? Both finishes will be the same.

4. The joists on the upper floor hallway run length-wise with the hallway. Does this mean I have to install the hardwood across the hall instead of down the hallway?


Thanks in advance and this forum is great - very glad I found it.

Ryan

You will something over the 5/8 OSB. 3/8" plywood is the minimum and you can go thicker.

Considering the 2nd floor joist problem I would use 1/2" underlayment. That would allow you to run the flooring any direction you choose "if" the joist are 16" on center and the OSB is t&g.