On 5/15/2013 8:24 AM, David Moore wrote:
Hi All,

I'm working on a low-end, mobile home rental property. The water heater
sprang a leak sometime in the past and destroyed 100+ sq ft of particle
board flooring.

Ripping up the ancient carpeting reveals that the pad and carpet were the
originals and were installed on bare particle board. No previous
flooring was noted.

My natural tendency is to put down linoleum. This this would have the
added benefit of waterproofing the particleboard decking and be easier to
clean. Unfortunately, in the last decade, we are getting significant
numbers of rentals with torn and ripped linoleum. Another part of me
wants to glue down some indoor/outdoor carpet. So .... given that this
unit has poor, sometimes destructive tenants ..... what's the best long
wearing, indestructible flooring I can put down?



I'm no expert, just experience with researching options and installing
tile. First, when laying carpet, one can install a waterproofing
membrane under it....it may cost more, but may be a good investment in
the longrun. I understand that plywood is much more durable and
resistant to moisture than particlejunk. Vinyl flooring isn't very
resistant to wear and tear, IMO. If your goal is to spend the minimum,
then you will get minimum quality. Low cost ceramic tile might even be
a good idea. Indoor/outdoor carpet, for poor folks, is a reasonable
consideration. And cheap.

I'm sure particle board has sound uses, but in areas subject to any
water damage (every bathroom and kitchen I have lived in), it is crap.