Expert Q
Question:
My wife and I have purchased a home to be built by March 2001 and we have some ?'s concerning standard features and upgrades. The plumbing is the polyethylene. We are considering upgrading to copper. What are the pros and cons to either as well as consideration for cost? The upgrade to copper is $600. We want hardwood flooring, pre finished/ laminate. The sub-floor is 5/8th T & G OSB. Is it better to upgrade to 3/4 OSB or plywood? Would the extra cost be justified in the long term? We have 2 full bathrooms that have only ceiling fans, no windows. What would be your recommendation for an adequate ventilation fan, i.e. 50, 90 100 cfm etc.
Answer:
I would not up-grade (your term) to copper because one is as good and lasting as the other and modifications to the poly at not more costly. I see hardwood flooring as the ultimate but the laminate is coming along. I just want people first to see laminated flooring that has been installed in high traffic areas for at least a year. If the sub-flooring is OSB, I want it to be thicker than 5/8" and even then, you may have some squeaks depending on the joists that are used. For bathroom ventilation, I would insist on 110 CFM fans and perhaps even stronger in the form of a squirrel cage unit. The motor of the latter is in the attic so its not a noise problem.
Answered By: Ren Molnar
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