I realize this question is not new, but I am not sure what I should be using as far as a type of wood when it comes to laying down the sub floor. I was wondering if 1/2 " ext grade Spruce "or" Fir will do the job as I am getting lots of advice, I am just not sure what to decide on. Also, for either one is versabond the best product for setting the tiles ? Please help...as this is going over 5/8 sheets with 16" centers. The largest area (there are 4 areas, hall, bathroom, kitchen, foyer ) is 9x14 ...Thx.

Hi
Both are fine...the fur being a little better I suppose....but are you planning on putting any type of tile backerboard down too?...that would be the best idea. But the Versabond is great stuff, for the price of it.

Hello, thanks for the quick reply, would you recommend the backer board in a specific area, ie the bathroom? Is this for sturdiness or for moisture resistance ?...as I suppose I should research a little more on this product and understand what it is best used for...Also, could you recommend a better product to set the tiles ?

hi
I think you should use the backerboard wherever you use tile. Plywood is not that stable a product , which expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity...if it moves, so does the tile...which could result in cracks in the grout, or the tile. The cement board is stable, so is a better choice. All of them are about the same. Versabond is what I use everyday...never had a problem with it. Good stuff.

Ok, thanks Brian. I really appreciate your advice. Roughly, what is the cost differece between backerboard and plywood, I have found that I can purchase the 1/2 4x8 sheets of FIR @ $24.99 Cnd and the Spruce is $19-20...And finally, what thickness would you suggest on the cement board ?

hi
You can get 4x8 sheets of durock at Home Depot for 22 bucks a sheet...and it's Half inch thick...the 3/5 sheets are around 15..so the big sheets are a good buy if you can handle them...they are pretty heavy and awkward.