SUBFLOOR CONSTRUCTION

                Refer to the diagrams included in this section to better understand the information provided.  Again, check with your local building code enforcement bureau and use your local building codes and/or the specifications in the Tennessee Log Homes’ blueprints (whichever is greater) when constructing your subfloor.

                The first step in building your subfloor is to check the squareness of the foundation.  You must remedy any out-of-square or out-of-level problems in the foundation by installing a sill plate and subfloor that is perfectly level and square to the nearest 1/4 inch.  Use treated shims to level the sill plate if necessary and be certain that it is square.  Furthermore, it is vital that the overall dimensions of the sill plate and/or subfloor are exactly as specified in the blueprints.  Out-of-square, out-of-level, and wrong-size subfloors will cause serious problems further into the construction process.

                Sill plates are generally constructed with 2x8 C.C.A.-treated lumber and are governed by your local building code enforcement bureau.  Where porch decks join the foundation wall, you may use a 2x sill plate that is 2” wider that that used elsewhere.  If you do, let the extra 2” overhang the foundation exterior wall to provide a ledge for your porch floor joists to rest upon.

                 Sill plates should be installed using 1/2” anchor bolts every four feet around the foundation perimeter to fasten the sill plate to the foundation.  Anchor bolt installation is usually performed by the foundation contractor.

                Once the sill plate is square, level and properly anchored, construction of the subfloor may begin.  A subfloor for a log home is no different than one for a conventional home with the following exceptions:

1. Double headers or joists should be used around the subfloor perimeter.

2. There must be solid blocking under the subfloor deck where support posts will be located.

3. Minimum 2x10 floor joists are recommended.

Complete the subfloor as per the blueprints, and remember that the most important aspect of a Tennessee Log Homes’ log home subfloor is that it be square, level and built to the exact dimensions as specified in the Tennessee Log Homes’ blueprints to the nearest 1/4 inch.