Building Homes or Extensions/Pool house flooring

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Expert: - 10/29/2008


Question
Daniel -

We've decided on a terra cotta tile for our pool house.  One tile rep said it was great for outdoor use but another said it was too porous and high maintenance.  I need you to be the tiebreaker - is it good for a uninsulated pool house in the Northeast that would be subject to cold winters and hot summers?

Answer
Dear Aimee,

I would not install terra cotta tile.

A porcelain glazed tile is appropriate. On a floor subject to freezing, tile must be waterproof, and of course terra cotta is not.

This is the type of tile I'm recommending: http://www.mannington.com/residential/porcelain/style.aspx?type=14&style_id=Sere...

Daniel  

Building Homes or Extensions

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Daniel Humphrey

Expertise

I can answer questions about designing and building homes and outbuildings, especially for colder climates. I am expert in timber framing, but of course I also know about other kinds of residential construction techniques and materials. Because of my emphasis on using local materials and organic alternatives, I know quite about about Green Building and am willing to do the research to find out more.

Experience

I've been a timber framer for 20 years, working as a general contractor who designs and builds custom timberframe homes, working as much as possible with local organic materials, from foundation to finish. I also have expertise in designing, building, and setting up pre-fab remote camp facilities on terra firma or temperate glaciers for research and expeditions, using helicopters for support.

Education/Credentials
B.A., M.F.A.

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