3457  recap: tango floor surfaces

Date: Thu, 19 May 2005 15:51:38 -0700
From: Margaret Davis <margaretdavis@PORTLANDTRIBUNE.COM>
Subject: recap: tango floor surfaces

Hi List,

I had numerous replies to my query re the best kind of tango floor, and I
appreciate everyone taking the time to provide such useful information.

In my original shout-out, I said I would report back to the list the results
of my research, but there is so much to absorb, and so many different ideas,
I can only provide a brief overview here. Anyone more curious about the
topic should feel free to e my off-list and I can send them a document of
all the replies received.

I plan to unsubscribe after sending this e-mail b/c I need to cut back on
e-mail.

So:

I'm still planning to lay down vertical (versus horizontal) bamboo over a
compacted-gravel and concrete slab on grade that includes a radiant heat
system.

Listeros raised the concern that the heat system would dry out the boards,
and my builder is researching that. Even so, the bamboo floor will be laid
so it "floats," which means there is some give in terms of spread,
shrinkage, etc.

Another issue raised was whether to use prefinished or unfinished boards.
Unfinished seems the way to go as it will be easier to "fill" seams between
boards after they're laid and also to be more sure of the durability and
quality of the finish products used.

For support and cushion, I heard of 2 methods, both of which I'm exploring.
One is Neoshok absorbers, small rubber "buttons" placed every foot or so on
the plywood subfloor that come in all ranges of resiliency (depending on
intended use of the space). Another method used in the Portland area is a
subfloor interlaced with strips of rubber mats, the kind that are commonly
used in horse stalls.

My research continues, but I expect to have the floor ready for dancing by
the end of the year. Anyone who wants a better idea of my project can see
some construction photos at https://manaobooks.blogspot.com. The house with
the dance floor is called Mabel.

If I'm wrong on any of the above, please let me know! Otherwise, thank you
to all who submitted your ideas and advice, and others for their interest.

Tangamente, Margarita

Portland, OR