Flooring: eucalyptus plank vs. tile

[Rob Tucker]

There is a treatment (boric acid) for wood which is not toxic but is no where near as enduring as previously banned substances. Using local lumber requires that you understand whether or not it has been properly dried. "Properly" means if it is too wet it may shrink in place producing gaps, warping and stress on the nails... overly dry (from a kiln process most likely) can have the opposite effect - swelling from humidity which can produce buckling. Boric acid treatments are a wet process and will require come curing and drying before use.

Eucalyptus is not a straight grained wood. You should order in excess of your needs and acclimate the material, under cover, for some time prior to installation.

Tile, especially on a concrete surface, can be hard on the joints. On a framed subfloor it is more kind. I do handle a plywood substitute which is tile ready and fire and termite proof if you are interested.

Assume the best and ask questions.

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