Date:         Sat, 19 May 2007 17:01:08 -0700
Reply-To:     PB <pbrattan@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         PB <pbrattan@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Installing a hardwood floor
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

My battery problems appear to be resolved, so now I'd like to move on to
something that would be fun for me.  I'd like to install a hardwood floor in
my Westy.  Right now I have a sort of gray textured rubber/vinyl floor that
I've seen in many Westies.  The floor I'd like to install is imitation
hardwood that you install over a soft liner without glue or nails.  I've
specifically chosen a flooring that is not very thick.  It looks like 3/8"
thick.  One package will do the trick.

I've noticed that there are small gaps under the rear seat board, as well as
under kitchen cabinetry.  On the seat side, there is gimp where the floor
and seat platform carpet meet.  I noticed in Ben's floor install he used a
sound barrier - some kind of silvery material I'm not familiar with.

Would I need to remove the gray floor material that is already there, or can
I just install the "wooden" flooring on top of it? (I don't even know what's
under it.)  Basically I'd like to know what prep work is needed before
actually putting in the wood.

It seems like it would be simple to install a hardwood floor in a Westy, but
I want to make sure that there are no "hidden obstacles" before I "jump in!"

Thanks
Patti