Best Cabin Subfloor Idea You’ve NEVER Seen. Joists, Insulation, & OSB.

[@benttwisted210]

As a 41-year carpenter & all around construction worker, I would have to say there was some brilliance involved in that line of thinking! Of course, it's easy to watch someone else do something and critique it, but, I won't do that, but, I think I came up with a good idea keep the 7/16 OSB from eventually rotting away. Oil base prime the exposed side prior to construction. Oil base primer dries incredibly fast too! Also, it's a lot less expensive than the new house wrap coated OSB (ZIP, Force Field, etc...) & treated plywood. 🤔👍

[@LifeontheMoose]

I’ll take “some brilliance” any day! I appreciate you watching.

[@benttwisted210]

@@LifeontheMoose you're welcome! Did you think a little bit of brilliant foresight was involved with the pre-priming of the belly? I would probably have my primer tinted brown because white does attract flying insects & ants!

[@mattarnold2650]

I had the same idea but I was thinking damp proofing tar. I've been painting the top of my floors with whatever oil based enamel that I have on hand. Seals the wood during the construction process especially in wet climates. Painted wood is really tough.

[@benttwisted210]

@@mattarnold2650 agreed! I've done several fire restorations and they require an oil-based primer on salvageable lumber & sub floors.

[@court2379]

Oil based paint isn't vapor permeable. By painting the exterior you are trapping moisture in the wall where it will condense and rot out the wall. Those commercial systems are moisture barriers but vapor permeable.

[@dontask7898]

Aahhhhhh the beauty's of working alone. It really is an experience people should have at least once in life.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Agreed! 🙏

[@jamesdeluca6657]

Doing it for years

[@stupiduser6646]

Did this on our cottage too. Worked well. We also painted the "bottom" of the OSB to give more humidity protection.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Good idea! We are in a very dry place here, otherwise I would have done the same. Thanks for watching!

[@randymacsgarage]

Great job putting on your skrim sheet I was a little concerned when I saw how massive the structure was and that tiny air compressor lol 👍👍

[@joepangean6770]

Same as I thought. You should have coated the bottom layer of OSB with creosote or Thompsons with a rodenticide. Critters will chew through the OSB eventually to build nests in that warm insulation space. Since you had the compressor you could have sprayed the coating with an LPHV rather quickly. Here is a tip to save your cordless battery drill, wipe those long screw threads across a bar of soap before putting them in.

[@calvinabbott6920]

Looks like some kind of jig is in order to hold joists in place during assembly.

[@nonprogrediestregredi1711]

​@@joepangean6770Yes, rodents will absolutely chew through that OSB, especially when it takes on moisture over time. When I built my three season porch, I skinned the bottom of the joists with treated plywood and poured a layer of sakrete on the bottom of the joist space in case rodents chewed through the plywood. Then I ripped strips of Styrofoam for insulation. Rodents will almost certainly be nesting in the cabin floor in this video.

[@nicholasrolley950]

We did this to our cabin. We added mesh screen and felt paper between joists and osb to keep the mice out. It's amazing how much of a difference it made

[@andys3138]

Is mesh screen the same as hardware cloth?

[@davidhawkins847]

​@andys3138 Typically yes. Hardware Cloth usually refers to the heavier duty metal screen as opposed to window screen grade mesh. It typically starts at 1/4" and up in grid size, and the wire gauge will also be bigger on the larger grid sizes like 1" square.

[@davidhawkins847]

I spend a lot of time in OLD cabins, so I see the rat and mouse problems. I kept thinking doing something like this would provide an insulation point and protect the underside from intrusion but wasn't thinking do it in sections. Like you though, I was wondering if putting on the bottom a layer of hardware cloth would add that extra layer to prevent rodents as well as bigger animals from tearing into the underside. Between this video and your confirmation that it can be done, THX.

[@brentcraig]

You could add cedar saw dust

[@peter-pg5yc]

mice rats eat thru felt.. wire mesh and foam all opennings foam holds mesh.

[@CorbinMusso88]

I’d just like to say…after years of hard work, watching countless hours of youtube, liking videos, commenting, subscribing…the algorithm has finally started to recommend good, wholesome content for me to enjoy and learn. I wish I was building that cabin with you, man. I’ll settle for just watching, though.

[@LifeontheMoose]

That means a lot!

[@eugenecbell]

@@LifeontheMooseme too

[@PeterMajewski-gr3re]

I'm a retired builder, and let me tell you, it's a lot easier to WATCH someone do it than do it! BTW never nail the sub floor, ALWAYS use screws to prevent squeaks.

[@LifeontheMoose]

At first I was concerned about squeaks when I built the Ridge Cabin (other videos) but I built it the same way, and not even the hint of a squeak. I’m happily surprised. So I did it again! I appreciate you watching.

[@bonnier001]

I use screws now but ringshank nails did the job, too.

[@raicebannon1936]

do not forget a little bead of adhesive

[@spo307]

glue and screw

[@MADDOG100ful]

​@@spo307glue screw staple and nail😅

[@jaminthevanuk296]

I'm just about to build my cabin in Scotland. I'm 70 yrs old looking forward to.more of your very entertaining vids thank you for your extra time and light heartedness. As you teach us all ..mike Scotland. All the best to you .

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thank you so much, Mike from Scotland!

[@TheGino62]

iv been a carpenter for about 40 years n i give u the thumbs up its something i would do

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks so much!

[@mattmobley9671]

enclosing the joist bays is a really good idea. I agree with other comments about a vapor barrier on the ground under the cabin. I kept my old F350 on a dirt floor in the barn. Seemed like humidity from dry dirt still rusted the under carriage. My 20' shipping container/secure storage shed was also in that barn. Humidity in the container was still a problem. I jacked it up and rolled a sheet of polyethylene under it and humidity was gone.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Vapor barrier is the number one comment, and I’ll address that in an upcoming video. I appreciate you tuning in so far!

[@EnGammalAmazon]

Seeing the buck in velvet and you using the nail gun made me think of when I was building a large log home in Hood River, Oregon years ago. One of the guys on the crew was nuts about calling turkeys. I don't remember what time of year it was, but at lunch every day he was out trying to call in the toms. He wasn't having much luck. We then started putting the T&G decking on the roof. We would lay up about six runs of decking and wedge it all down hill to tighten it up. I would then pull out the big Senco and start to nail off a whole bunch of decking. As soon as I started nailing it drove the Toms WILD!!!! They went nuts and started running out of the woods toward our house site. I never saw anything like it. Mark was absolutely PISSED!! I think the Senco was the best turkey call I've ever seen.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Outstanding story! Appreciate you watching.

[@ZacVaper]

When you sheet the walls, let the plywood run past the bottom plate to cover the rim joists; then when you stand the walls you'll have no seam at the floor. Do the same on the wall corners; hold back the wall a half-inch from the edge and use the plywood sheathing on the next wall to tie into the first wall and so on. It'll make for a much stronger structure, with everything tied together.

[@ZacVaper]

Do double top plates with the top ones that overlap the adjacent walls in all the corners,

[@jairamragbir437]

beautiful work cowboy🙏💎🍾🍸🥂🐓🌴🏝👙🛒🦋📋🛡👍💪🌹🍒🌶🐞🦖🎉❤🍞🇹🇹

[@Someonehad2sayit]

That’s what the top plates are for..

[@ZacVaper]

@@Someonehad2sayit OMG...You are clueless. ROFLMAO

[@Someonehad2sayit]

@@ZacVaper 50 year old carpenter here, and I’m not about to get in a pointless argument with some dumbass kid that acts like he knows something. Have a nice day.

[@justkelly6992]

I helped my dad build an A frame cabin when I was a kid. He stapled Rodent screen to the exposed subflooring underneath. He said it might rust away in thirty years or so but no mouse or rate could chew through it. Do the same thing on this system and seal the OSB with Bitumen or some oil based sealer. No leaks, no rot, no vermin. Add metal flashing on the side walls up about a foot and pretty much good to go with no sneaky little pests.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Your dad’s a smart guy! With very little humidity, no ground moisture, and a wide open under-carriage, there’ll be no appreciable issues with moisture or vermin. In other situations, I’d go with your dad! Thank you.🙏

[@Jimbo171000]

Not sure I would have used particleboard that close to the ground because once that starts to de-lamante it would be very hard to repair. I think pressure treated plywood might have been a better choice.

[@mudpiemudpie785]

And I would have been inclined to cover the whole thing with overlapping fine wire mesh to keep out the critters.

[@nahnotsomuch2292]

That isn't particle board. It's OSB. They make OSB as subfloor for a reason. There are no greater issues with it than there are with plywood sheets. If it were a big worry, you could use DryMax which is even made to handle getting a bit wet. I've seen plenty of home and cabin builds that use OSB and unless the builder made a mistake, I've never heard an issue. I think if you're getting that much water splashback up to the subfloor, you've done something wrong.

[@barbarianleatherandblades8686]

OSB stands for Orented Strand Board. It has nothing in common with partical board. It's designed for this purpose.

[@highlanderthegreat]

for the floor i would of use marine plywood, if it can stand up to sea water it will last out there for sure

[@MrSteeDoo]

@@highlanderthegreat you a rich guy?

[@randyandrews2743]

I built a small cabin as well and did something similar. I pin nailed and liquid nailed 1x2 around the bottom interior, then painted the plywood facing the ground with sealer, then liquid nailed and nailed the plywood in. Filled with insulation and put the 3/4 inch tounge and groove on solid and love it.

[@jimgree]

It's nice to see somebody think ahead.

[@LifeontheMoose]

I appreciate that!

[@buckeyefarmer6259]

By not laying out the joists right so the flooring doesn’t hit the joists?

[@eamonncoady9823]

Thats a bloody marvellous idea . Your location will turbo charge your soul. Warm , dry , safe, simple, what more could a man ask for. I realy enjoyed this and thank you for your efforts in producing it.

[@LifeontheMoose]

That means a lot. Appreciate you watching!

[@eamonncoady9823]

@@LifeontheMoose I'm watching from ireland good man

[@chrisripplinger]

You seem like a gem of a human. Thanks for making the video!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Wow that’s an awesome thing to say. Thanks for watching it!

[@louisesblues]

I’ve been binge watching the building of the cabin, soaking in 3-4 episodes a night. Patrick, you’ve put together something quite unique, it’s really very brilliant. Wrapped up last night with the door install, looking forward to what’s next. Hoping the Buck comes down the hill and lends you a hoof, I’d advise him to if he plans on enjoying the firepit! Ok,…I couldn’t pass it up!! Thanks for the monster effort!!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hey thank you so much! I really appreciate it! 🙏

[@bellasouldesigns]

Thank you, I've been looking for this type of sub flooring and everyone thought I was crazy and wanting to over do it. I can't wait to get started. Thank you

[@LifeontheMoose]

Appreciate you watching!

[@dougbas3980]

I am 76YO and have done some construction of out buildings and cabins ... BRAVO! Well Done! This is great how-to for an excellent job! NICE!

[@LifeontheMoose]

MUCH appreciated!

[@seanhoude]

I would've affixed a vapor barrier to the underside as well. Exposed to the ground like that, the OSB is gonna get damp despite the air gap. Completing the deck is so satisfying.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@harveyalan788]

That insulation job was a piece of cake - I never broke a sweat!

[@LifeontheMoose]

😅

[@margaretbedwell3211]

I enjoyed watching this cabin build. The idea of the way you built the floor nd joists upside down is a stroke of genius. I'm old enough to be your Mom, and would never have thought to do it this way. And yet, it save crawling in tight places, it saves time insulating (and be comfortable doing it) and by the looks of it, saves time overall. Thanks for sharing. I have subscribed, because I want to see the whole build and love your humor to boot. Have a Blessed day.

[@LifeontheMoose]

This perhaps wins the award for the kindest comment ever received! I appreciate you.

[@margaretbedwell3211]

@@LifeontheMoose How nice of you.

[@valeriemckay7064]

I also must build a shed/shop (16 x 24) and had the same idea to do it upside down at first. I am 20+ miles from the US/CAN border, too funny. This video with all the great comments will help me a lot. The larger structure has me concerned so am not entirely sure how to approach it, so comments are totally helpful! You are just in time too, thanks for showing me that I am not insane, or we both are.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Lol can’t BOTH be. Appreciate you riding along! Let me know how the project goes.

[@rexmundi8154]

I’m fighting the same problem with wood rats here in Kentucky. I came up with a similar solution but I’m going over the joists with plywood like a regular floor and making a rigid foam / radiant barrier floor on top of that. It’s more material cost, but on a small cabin it’s not an issue. I’m not a fan of osb. I wouldn’t use it on my own house if it was free.

[@snurb48]

Just curious, is it the fire hazard or the potential swelling like a balloon if it gets wet? We used to burn the scraps of osb on construction sites during the winter. Man does that stuff burn once that glue gets hot!

[@rexmundi8154]

@@snurb48 it really breaks down fast if it gets wet. I know it’s not designed to get wet, but it invariably does. In renovation work you’ll find osb degradation practically everywhere it’s used.

[@kaikristyalegracameron7893]

Watching the joy and obvious serenity this build gave you makes me so happy. Its just so lovely to see a man that is building for love and just enough to enjoy the world around you. Hope you keep making these lovely videos.... Oh and also great that you're such a well spoken bloke that doesn't feel the need to curse 😊😊😊

[@LifeontheMoose]

Ah you are so kind! I’ll keep making videos as long as people watch. I really appreciate you being here!🙏

[@steve34043]

I built this same floor about 2 years ago. Very warm ... and no rodents.

[@MR-si1eq]

Just found this video. 5 months or so late. Excellent. Now I have to watch all of this build. Good job. ❤😊

[@LifeontheMoose]

Alright! Better late than never. Thank you!🙏

[@Casper042]

As someone who annually has a fight with ants during summer, I might suggest getting a couple jugs of dry ant bait (I use Terro Granules) and sprinkle them down inside the joist cavity before you added the insulation. If they DID get in, this might help keep them at bay. I am sure there is similar for Termites as well.

[@dallastexas4844]

Yes, I have seen this done by another youtuber that I follow a couple years ago. He, Red Poppy Ranch, was enclosing his water tank system building and did the same thing in his building. Smart idea, nice work, enjoyed the video, Thanks.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks so much!

[@jeffproctor1690]

Love this idea of keeping critters out of the floor! Only I would also waterproof/critter proof the underside of the 7/16 by using something like Henry's aluminum seal coating on it. Basically tar based and aluminum dust. It would water proof , and I think that the oil base and aluminum would discourage both critters and insects from chewing it or making a nest within it. Love styrofoam insulation for the R value, but my second would have to be Rockwool type batts in the joists.

[@whistlelips]

Nice, your a natural. You could staple the insulation another way to the inside of the joist, then you could glue. I'm not a big fan of covering studs and joists with paper, because I'm the drywaller and OSB guy too...🙃

[@mumpygumboo8554]

Great job, lovely how you kept your site tidy and your creativity is fun to watch. Good planning and execution. Lots to learn from. Nice vid production too. Humour is fun. Glad KZbin introducted us!

[@LifeontheMoose]

I’m equally as glad!

[@garrydonnelly6433]

Your comment is spot on and I agree with it. I will sub to this channel. Cheers from Mollymook Beach Australia.

[@mumpygumboo8554]

@@garrydonnelly6433 hey bud. I'd like to send you as song I wrote from Canada, to the tune of Land Down Under by Men at Work: I come from a land up topper with ski jumpers and wood choppers Wooo yeahhhh...... etc, etc. Sorry can't remember the rest of the song. LOL

[@danialaho5543]

'Outside of the box' framing, and, gluing all under-joist plywood joints...who woulda thunk it? Ingenious! Thanks for sharing 😊

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks for watching!

[@mhughes1160]

To avoid your sheathing problem you are supposed to offset your first measurement by 5/8” that way the edge your sheet will be in the middle

[@LifeontheMoose]

That works, too! Thank you for watching.

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

I didn't see a sheathing problem.

[@Valchrist1313]

@@heatherclayton-callaghan4270 at 13:27 the joists aren't connecting the two sheets, the sheet butts up to the end then flops around loose.

[@SirJozef328]

Thank You for seeing what I saw. Yet... @ 9:53 on his second floor panel, before being flipped over, he did lay a bead of construction glue to be between the two OSB underlayment board seams. I guess he was somewhat thinking about it and I guess something is better than nothing. 🤔 To each their own, I suppose.

[@LifeontheMoose]

@@Valchrist1313 not sure what you’re seeing. Maybe not the whole video? Nothing is flopping or loose. The length of the OSB is supported in several places, and all of it glued. Thanks for watching!

[@UkemanCad]

I work by myself a lot, a couple of big clamps can come in pretty handy. Hold things up, together, and brace things temporarily.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Good call!

[@tomasploc6042]

Konečně vidím rozumného člověka, který dává do podlahy izolaci.

[@jamesart9]

1st time viewer and I have to say, I feel kinda warmly wrapped in wholesome goodness. Thank you.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Well that warms me in return! 🙏

[@brettgracey9682]

Build the floor out of structured insulated panels. OSB on both sides, sandwiching a foam core. The 4 other sides are contained within dimensional lumber.

[@LifeontheMoose]

That would work! Cost is a big consideration for me, too. Thanks for watching!

[@colstace2560]

If you glue and nail osb on both sides you have an enclosed air gap, no need for insulation. Also, if rodents want in, they will just chew a hole. I would have used double joists on all the edges so they aren't just floating. Great spot for a cabin 🙂👍

[@kindmountainlion5506]

I like how you include us into the video. Its a surprise when you ask hay, do you want to go under the flooring and watch me brace up the joist in the center. Of course we do. We like to see work done under the cabin as well as from the top. Has anyone else has done that? Great Job

[@LifeontheMoose]

Kind words, I appreciate that!

[@remotetrapper8991]

Great idea, just ensure that whatever you utilize for outside covering, that you cover the edges of your OSB boards to keep the weather off it

[@LifeontheMoose]

Absolutely. You’ll see them covered in a few episodes. Thanks for watching!

[@demitaylor8873]

Thank you for showing IN DEPTH how to get a floor done..now if I can find how to build the piling and joists I'll be happy girl!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Be prepared to be happy! I have videos on that. Thank you for watching!

[@thearrowheadwoodsman3811]

I've been thinking about different ways to do this. Outstanding idea and video. Cheers !!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Comments like this make it all worth it! Thanks for watching!

[@207matthew]

Building a 12 x 20 cabin on an island in Maine...pour my sona tubes this week... My cabin will be warm Thank you !!!!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Ah cool! Keep me posted on the build. Thanks for watching!

[@InvaderMyk]

First video of yours I’ve watched, and I’m already super-pleased with your tactics! Unsurprisingly, this would also work for super-humid climes like my home-state of Florida (where bugs are basically guests…).

[@LifeontheMoose]

I’d probably use something other than OSB in humid/wet climates. It lasts here because of the lack of moisture. Thanks for watching!

[@joe8schmoe]

Handy way of building the floor! If you were to nail the insulation between the joists rather than on top, you could still glue the sub floor down. Just a thought.

[@bennywilks9367]

Nice job. Great commentary. Fun to watch, and great idea with the build-then-invert strategy.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks so much!

[@billroberts3864]

Patrick, that is a great way to install the floor joists and insulation to make a snug cabin. Love your music selections. Blessings to you as you complete your project.

[@LifeontheMoose]

I appreciate that, and same to you!

[@frankdodson3534]

Ya I agree Patrick has a new subscriber looking forward for future notifications .

[@williamrubin8041]

Great work! In Spokane, fires all around us. I often wondered what the impact would be if folks in the country had a sprinkler (park or playground style) mounted on the peak of their cabin's roof that could be used in fire season to protect the cabin and surrounding grounds...

[@LifeontheMoose]

I’ve always wondered the same thing..

[@benjaminhamilton2338]

You can buy sprinklers made for that purpose. I think the issue is that, unless you have your own water tower for gravity fed water supply, when wildfires happen there are usually widespread power and utility issues so you probably won't have water pressure.

[@pheobefink2664]

The clay tile roofed house in Lahaina was untouched in the midst of the fearsome fire on Maui. The home owner had also cleared bushes and other plantings from near the house. Ametal roof will save you a lot on home insurance.

[@cre8hive1]

the tricky part is water supply?

[@bonnier001]

@@cre8hive1 Design a tower to hold a small reserve water tank above roof level. 😊

[@JaySiewers]

This was the first episode I came across and watched last year. Gave me a "wth is this guy doing?". A few more episodes and I was hooked. So now, I'm watching the third round of the Spur cabin. Totally enjoying it. 😊

[@LifeontheMoose]

That’s so awesome! SO appreciative.🙏

[@briggshome7012]

cuttting insulation batts is BEST done with the paper side down. Put the straight edge on top of the fiberglass, mash it down and cut. The paper will cut FAR easier when it's against a cutting board.

[@davesanders9203]

You must be doing something right! 1.4 MILLION views in 4 months. I've always told myself: "There should be an easy way to do this!

[@LifeontheMoose]

I appreciate you watching!

[@jamestaylor8860]

Finally!!! Someone who knows something. Thank you for the video. I’m a subscriber.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thank YOU for subscribing!

[@jackoshea687]

Only because I’m a stickler to myself I might have looked up some info on painting the face of the OSB underboards to add an extra degree of longevity between that and the earth,what you did is excellent ,nice job.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thank you! Not a bad idea…in fact I’ve been meaning to go back and spray the underside. It’s just so dry here that it’s not a top priority. Glad you watched!🙏

[@budlite8207]

What a great idea. I'm going to build a 12 x16 structure next spring and was wondering how to make a bottom enclosure for my insulation without a bunch of nailers and ripping plywood. Nice job.

[@LifeontheMoose]

I appreciate that!

[@misty4782]

This way of subflooring makes so much sense to me. Good on you!!!! God bless.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Much appreciated!!

[@daveh7137]

Nice work!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks and thanks for watching!

[@Cierbhal]

Man, that's nice weather. I have a good friend that lives in MN, I love going up there to see them. Beautiful weather, beautiful country. The Boundary Waters is my favorite place. Nice build, brother.

[@jrjr7390]

Unless your going to leave it open all year round under that particleboard you should use a thick moisture barrier with it. Chipboard breaks down pretty fast when exposed and leaves soft spots for critters to get into...I'm speaking from experience.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Always open. No issues with moisture in these parts, and it’s amazing how OSB weathers MUCH better than traditional plywood. Something I’ve recently learned. Thanks for the comment and for watching!

[@LukePighetti]

Can you elaborate more on OSB weathering better than plywood? We see the opposite (and very distinctly) in New England

[@LifeontheMoose]

@@LukePighetti depends so much on the circumstances, but I’ve seen a couple reputable individuals and there’s info out there about OSB durability when wet. Because non-treated plywood has bigger pieces of solid wood, they are more susceptible to warping and splitting layers. Again, depends on what form that moisture is. Yes, the edges of OSB is its Achilles heal. The bottom line, my overall build strategy would be different if in a different climate.

[@bobbygetsbanned6049]

@@LifeontheMoose This logic makes no sense, plywood can totally delaminate and you still have multiple plies of solid wood. OSB falls apart into wood chips when it gets wet so there's nothing left of it, unlike plywood which retains some strength even if the glue fails. Whoever said OSB is better in wet environments is either referring specifically to something like Advantech subfloor or they are completely full of shit.

[@BryanL1982]

Never would I use osb. Maybe treated ply for what you are doing

[@BrianWendland-cp9vq]

Rodents. They love fiberglass. Use cellulose with boric acid where ever possible. I'm glad to see you install the bat's correctly. I dence pacted cellulose in a cantilever and it worked well. I glued the top. I had this floor system in mind, it's helpful to see how you did it. I also would paint befor flipping.

[@JohnAmes]

your making some great progress my friend

[@LifeontheMoose]

Much appreciated!

[@TheBigfoot567]

I wish I had seen this video before building my far west TX desert cabin. In 2007. Great innovation here.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hey thanks so much! 🙏

[@cavalierx6099]

Pretty similar to some shed/cabin builds I have done on our High Desert Farm.... but I went with Rockwool for insulation. This is a MUCH easier way to drop in the floors/insulation and my experience has shown that keeping the space heated in COLD winter conditions have not caused any moisture issues as the floors still breath really well with minimal skirting.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Great comment, thanks for watching!

[@kschleic9053]

I came to the comments to say something about moisture, and then I saw you already said it! This design works very well in dry cold climates where low outside humidity is sufficient to draw any condensation that forms inside the joist bay below the insulation through the plywood... If anyone watching this is thinking about building something similar in the Midwest, there needs to be a vapor barrier above the insulation, below the subfloor plywood. This could be just taping the craft paper in this assembly, or it could be a purpose made product spread over the top, stapled down, and taped.

[@karlhungus545]

Hahaha...'cold' winter conditions in the desert. I'd use Roxul too as the winters here get to -45C or colder for 4 - 6 months of the year...cold.

[@joqlady888]

Gosh...I love building ,I am 72yo HEALTHY ,,THANK MY FATHER GOD, female. Just came across your channel .So, I'm here now ,,Subed and liked...I'll be back. lov from south alabama..........maga

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hi to Alabama, appreciate you watching!

[@cabinman]

Very clever idea! Although I don't understand the 7/16 OSB on the top...I would've went with 23/32 Advantech. Strong and extremely resilient.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Mostly…money! I got a fairly decent deal on this OSB at the time. I’ll finish with wood flooring to really add rigidity. 🙏

[@Dani-girl]

Your property is beautiful Your personality is fun

[@LifeontheMoose]

Oh thanks so much!

[@johngrossbohlin7582]

Conceptually I like the idea... much easier to install the insulation well and seal up the bottom. Me being me, I'd probably have oriented the bottom sheets 90° to take advantage of the OSB structure and limit sag. Because bugs exploit any gaps available I'd probably have used Great Stuff Pestblock or construction adhesive at the corner joist/rim joist joints, around the perimeter of the joists/rim joists and the OSB, and between the beams and OSB, to keep the bugs out. The Pestblock could serve as an adhesive if you kept the insulation kraft paper back a bit from the edges. Around my area, before applying siding, flashing the beam/rim joist area to keep the rain/snow from migrating between the beam and OSB bottom would improve the longevity of the structure too.

[@johnnoname6814]

THERE IS NO STRUCTURE IN ORIENTED STRAND BOARD IT IS COMPLETELY RANDOM THERE IS NO GRAIN IT HAS SOME STRENGTH LENGTHWISE AND WIDTHWISE BUT LITTLE HORIZONTALLY

[@timyates807]

I wanted to say thanks for making a great video about floor building, i just used it on my place and it works beautifully ! Ill be using this method from now on . Ive done plenty of building as well and as soon as i saw it i knew it was a great idea. thanks again take care.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hey thank you! That means a lot. Glad you’re here.🙏

[@eleanordutton3430]

Great video, one thing though: are you SURE you want to put a fire pit next to a cliff… where people will be sitting around, maybe drinking, in the dark?

[@blackterminal]

They can all put inflatable sumo suits and helmets on. That way they will bounce.

[@tophattommy2]

I did this and a little more on my house that I built a couple years ago. After using foam board insulation (Not the fiberglass) and spray sealing big gaps next to to the 2x6's, I layered the bubble wrap-Mylar insulation over the whole floor before putting down the top boards. My house sits about 39" off the ground (I have skirting) and when we had -40 degrees a couple weeks ago, the floor was cool. I think that was the second time that I ever thought that my floor was cool. The first being at -35 degrees last year. I highly recommend this option for flooring on elevated floors!!!! Good video!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hey thank you! All good advice. I’ll step it up a notch or two when I build the house, as well.

[@tophattommy2]

@@LifeontheMoose I firmly believe that the bubble wrap insulation over all of the boards was the key piece! I will be looking for more great content from your channel!

[@susanvaughn741]

Plastic ground cover should have been placed under the pier blocks for the foot print of the cabin. Moisture control makes a better building. Then cover the plastic with gravel without minus rock.

[@GIDO74]

Man you have a great attitude and you are so welcoming and inclusive, i enjoyed watching you create. I would work for you for free, just to learn. Thank you.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Wow that’s kind! Watching is helping, and I’ll do what I can to make it worthwhile.

[@thehazelnutspread]

I'm surprised you didn't lay a sheet of poly on top of the insulation. Our building codes state that we always lay poly between the insulation and the material (OSB, drywall, etc) on the warm side of the building.

[@MadRat70]

That should trap moisture. Ffs

[@thehazelnutspread]

You put poly on the WARM side of a building and leave the COLD side open. This does NOT trap moisture.@@MadRat70

[@krisbeatty6024]

If you spill water on the floor, such as dishwasher leak, the water will pool on the poly and never get out, rotting out the floor sheeting leading to eventual replacement. I have seen it happen. Better to paint the top of the floor sheeting with oil based paint to achieve less vapor permeance

[@kululv]

It's quite entertaining to watch, or more listen to you! I was already a long time wondering why nobody else did the subfloor like you did it.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks so much!

[@rudyfisher7660]

You wanna get rid of flies? Use Irish Spring, rub it on your clothes everywhere. And they don't want to smell of it.

[@LifeontheMoose]

I’ve never heard of that. Thank you!

[@joewoodchuck3824]

I'm more concerned about mosquitoes than flies.

[@iceman9678]

Flies don't like the smell of Irish......spring. interesting 🤔

[@jdrissel]

​@@LifeontheMooseYou might try getting a Bug-A-Salt (if they are legal where you are). They fire a tiny pinch of salt at about 200fps, and they flys do not even see it coming. Only works to about 30" or so, but if your aim is good, it is 100% kill at 30".

[@yesicanu]

​@@jdrisselGive sea salt a shot for more distance.

[@cesuntbanii]

Romanian watcher here! I already have a small wooden house but I wanna build another one myself. Love this videos!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hello Romanian watcher, and thanks for tuning in!

[@jerrymoore838]

Great idea and step by step filming. And love the interactions in the comments that alter and add to the original build. Liked, shared, subscribed and notifications on. Good group here

[@LifeontheMoose]

A good group starts with good viewers! Appreciate you subscribing.

[@barbarianleatherandblades8686]

This is a great idea. I have never done it in 30 years of construction but thats why I like it. I would say that if I ever try this on a project Ill add a 2x4 nailer across the 2x8's to hold them in place while I put the OSB on so they arnt falling over so easly. I would also add some type of moisture barrier either a wrap or elastomeric paint something and seam tape. But other than that this is a great idea and should help keep rodents and bugs and moisture out. Good job man!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hey thanks! Always ways to improve, eh? I appreciate you watching!

[@ajforeman83]

Comments are amazing as always…. Great job! Not just the construction and the property, but also your attitude and playfulness!! I haven’t watched any of you other stuff, but I’m subscribing. Keep it up!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks, that means a lot!!

[@enriquetorrico1423]

Exactly what I should have done at my etc Ranch ! Brilliant, estupendo, magnífico....etc etc Bravo!!!!

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

So much valuable information in the video and the comments section . So many things to battle it'll make your head spin , lol .

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thanks! 😅 I appreciate you watching!

[@okieproperty9141]

Loved it. Loved your enthusiasm and good humor.

[@LifeontheMoose]

That means a lot! 🙏

[@craigrmay7935]

I've never been here before, but I thoroughly enjoyed watching your work; your attitude and conversation made it such a pleasure to watch. I hope all goes well with you and yours. Happy Thanksgiving.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the kind words, and you watching. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

[@JuanEspinoza-zl1yy]

HELLO from Las Vegas Nevada GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hi back to Vegas!

[@okeechobeejoe2868]

I like this idea, and it seems to work great. I think I would've put some 2" insulation board at the bottom, then the insulation bate on top. Good job sir !!!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Thank you!

[@Isaacmantx]

I’ve thought of doing something similar, but you are the only person I’ve ever seen actually do this. The only alteration I could think of is using a sheet good that is rodent and rot proof like hardi-board. I have a dream of building a tiny cabin way up in the mountains in Colorado, and mouse/rat/chipmunk intrusion can be a beast to stop up there.

[@throngcleaver]

I built the subfloor in my treehouse that way, but I had nowhere to stand to flip them over. I had easy access to the bottom for screwing up into the joists. It was only 6' x 12', 15' from the ground to the top of the floor. I'm getting ready to build a cabin overlooking my lake, so I'll definitely use your flip-over method. 😊 Just subbed. Thanks for sharing what you do out there in God's Country!

[@LifeontheMoose]

My pleasure! I really appreciate the sub. Great to have you!

[@jimw3799]

you are correct... never seen that done before. We only put plywood/OSB on the top of the joists for the sub-floor around here. Perhaps you need that in your area... just an additional cost of materials for me. Still as nice way of doing it.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Same around here. I just wanted an additional barrier against rodents at a low cost. Thanks for watching!

[@patrikpersson9446]

This is a "how to" ! Some moisture protection was needed at thoose osb.. but i'll say it again..wery well done sir!!

[@oldschool6798]

God job….always thinking ahead. I usually lay out the floor joists as normal, tack some small cleats on the sides of the joists and drop in ripped panels between the joists and then insulate prior to decking.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Nice!

[@88rushrocks]

I love your attitude you’re being a fun person to work with

[@mikalpechota770]

I built my small cabin floor the same way. I used 1/2” treated on the bottom and 3/4” treated on the top. I used blowin on the floor so i was able to use adhesive on the joists. I think it turned out nice and its nice to see Im not the only one that built like that. Ha. Take care

[@LifeontheMoose]

I appreciate you watching!

[@terrilewis172]

Critters and bugs and water all love the corn base glue used in OSB!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Oh that’s ok, I special ordered that OSB with the bad-flavored glue. 🤣 Thank you for watching!

[@davidhawkins847]

Not being a builder but spending time in a lot of turn of the century public cabins i see a lot of the rodent issues. I thi k about building a place like this and had the same idea about building the floor. Thanks for the video as it and the comments confirmed the idea i was having AND the best way to actually build it. Kept only thinking what a pain to nail from underneath or build the whole floor and try to flip it over.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Build for your specific climate! This works well, here. Thanks for tuning in!

[@wp4934]

Nice calm relaxing demeanor, no stress, just enjoying th work and the location!!! Lucky

[@LifeontheMoose]

It’s a wonderful place and I love this work. I’m blessed for sure, but luck has nothing to do with it! Thank you for watching!!

[@teufelhunden146]

😂 u grab this end ill grab the other one. Oookay ill do it. Great setting, great video, great teacher 💪

[@LifeontheMoose]

You’re too kind! 🙏

[@AmishHitman73.Archive]

16:10 "hey! you wanna come with me?!" uh yah lol exciting stuff man!

[@denniscarreno5882]

Beautiful work….at last a proper sub floor made ….well done greetings from Australia….stay safe!

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hi to Australia!

[@chriskourlos4407]

❤😂🎉 great job man! Go to the front if the class.

[@davidlovell]

@LifeOnTheMoose - Loved your work and the humor is great !! I have been wondering why no one has made the comment about you putting the insulation in the wrong way. I have always thought the that moisture barrier was supposed to be installed toward the living space. I saw a WHOLE house floor have to be REPLACED because of mold growing because of the moisture growing mold in the crawl space because the paper was facing incorrectly.

[@LifeontheMoose]

Hey thanks! You’re spot on with the insulation. I did it the quick and easy way because 1) no consistent heat in that cabin. 2) not a permanent residence. 3) this is a dry climate. 4) if you watch later videos, you’ll see I put another moisture barrier on the living side. Thanks for watching and commenting! Hope to see you around.