Flooring is a crucial element in any construction project, providing the foundation for a safe, durable and aesthetically pleasing space. In the Australian Construction Industry, one name stands out for quality and reliability - STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue flooring. With over 50 years of excellence, this product has become a staple in the Australian construction industry, offering unmatched performance and durability.
Understanding STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue Flooring:
Manufactured in Australia, STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue flooring is a high-performance particleboard flooring designed specifically for residential and commercial applications. YELLOWtongue will support imposed loads for general areas in houses as required by AS/NZS 1170.1-2002. permanent, imposed and other actions. At 19mm thick, the maximum joist centres for STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue is 450mm for general residential applications.
Tongue and Groove System
YELLOWtongue flooring features an easy-to-use tongue and groove system that gives the flooring remarkable strength in the unsupported joints. This guarantees a safe and solid platform on which to build your frame or lay your floor covering.
Efficient Construction
The simplicity and lightweight nature of YELLOWtongue floor framing systems mean that carpenters can construct a common residential subfloor in as little as eight to ten hours. This efficiency leads to significant cost savings, especially by reducing the need for excavation, retaining walls, and sub-soil drainage that would be required for a slab-on-ground construction on sloping sites.
Construction Methods:
When installing STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue, various platform and fitted flooring construction methods are employed to ensure a secure and stable result. Here are some of the key methods and their significance in the installation process:
- Platform Construction: Platform flooring construction involves flooring laid on floor joists over the whole floor area prior to the erection of the wall and roof framing. YELLOWtongue is designed to withstand full weather exposure for up to five months.
- Fitted Flooring Construction: Fitted floor installation involves laying flooring over floor joists so that it fits around the shape of installed walls. This type of floor is usually installed after the walls and roof have been completed.
- Upper story construction: Upper story construction utilises particleboard flooring laid on timber joists and supported on wall framing / internal brickwork. STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue Particleboard flooring is ideal for internal upper story construction and extensions.
Adhesives & Fixings:
Adhesive and fastening techniques contribute to the overall stability and longevity of the floor. They prevent individual panels from shifting or separating over time, especially in areas subject to heavy loads or foot traffic.
- Construction Adhesive: Use a suitable construction adhesive to bond the STRUCTAflor boards to the subfloor. Apply the adhesive in a continuous bead along the joists or subfloor panels, ensuring complete coverage. This helps create a strong bond between the flooring and the subfloor, adding stability and reducing squeaks.
- Screws or Nails: Secure the STRUCTAflor yellow tongue flooring to the subfloor using screws or nails. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the size and spacing of fasteners. Typically, screws are preferred for a more secure attachment, especially in areas prone to movement or potential moisture exposure.
- Expansion Gaps: Leave appropriate expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room and any fixed objects, as particleboard can expand and contract with changes in humidity and temperature
Installation Tips:
- Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before installing STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue flooring. Address any irregularities and use appropriate adhesives to enhance stability.
- Acclimatisation: Allow the flooring to acclimate to the installation environment before laying it. This helps minimise the impact of temperature and moisture variations.
- Precision Cutting: Use precise measurements and high-quality cutting tools to achieve accurate cuts. This attention to detail contributes to a professional and polished final result.
Wet Area Installation
Particleboard flooring provides an economical flooring option for the application of impervious waterproofing systems in wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries and toilets. The waterproofing of floors and floor/wall joints in these areas is essential to prevent water damage to the substructure and adjoining rooms or spaces.
By adhering to either of the below waterproofing requirements, you can confidently use YELLOWtongue in wet areas while ensuring compliance with the latest changes to the National Construction Code (NCC):
- The YELLOWtongue substrate must be waterproofed as per AS3740:2021. This involves the use of a membrane which is compatible for use with particleboard flooring.
- Alternatively, a fiber cement tile underlay can be installed over the YELLOWtongue substrate. The underlay must be waterproofed as per AS3740:2021, using a membrane which is compatible for use over fiber cement underlay.
STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue flooring has earned its reputation through five decades of consistent performance, durability, and adaptability. As we celebrate 50 years of excellence, it's clear that this product continues to be a cornerstone in the construction industry. Whether you're a seasoned builder or embarking on your first construction project, choosing STRUCTAflor YELLOWtongue flooring is a decision rooted in quality and reliability.
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