We wish to remove the old flooring on our side porch( 2x4 lumber) and replace it with same. The old lumber is rotting at the ends. What type of wood is the best to use? Should we seal the ends? We will be covering this floor with indoor outdoor carpet.Is it necesary to leave a space between each piece? Also we need to replace some rotting wood on our front steps. Although this is pressure treated wood only a few years old,parts are rotten. Should the ends and sides of the wood be sealed before they are put down? We intend to paint this wood and put on a fine sand/ paint surface to prevent slippage
Answer:
The flooring can be something as simple as PT plywood because you'll be covering it anyway and that's the least prone to rot - none of them are completely protected from it. I would do the steps in 2" stock PT and seal the ends. The sand/paint mixture is a good idea.
