What is the recommended spacing for end joints in adjacent courses when installing strip flooring?

The recommended spacing for end joints in adjacent courses when installing strip flooring is 8 inches. This spacing is crucial for ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the flooring. By staggering the end joints 8 inches apart, you help distribute the stress and load across the floor more evenly, reducing the likelihood of warping, buckling, or gaps forming as the material expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature.

This practice also helps to create a more visually pleasing appearance, as it avoids creating a straight line of joints that could be distracting to the eye. The 8-inch spacing strikes a balance between proper support and making the installation process manageable, as larger gaps may be impractical and smaller gaps could compromise the flooring’s stability.