tongue and groove 4x4s?

[hackberry jake]

I have access to more trees than I can count that won't make much more than a 4x4. I was wondering if you used beams on 8 or 10 foot centers if I could get some tongue and groove bits made for my woodmaster and skip the floor joist step. Just run the 4x4s across the top of the beams. The floor would look like hardwood flooring yet be structural as well with many more refinishes in its lifespan. Have a one inch tongue and one inch groove that was about 1/2 inch depth. Bad idea?

[Bibbyman]

Bad idea?

Yes, would be my guess.  4x4s would be hard to dry so they would shrink, crack and twist, etc.  They would likely sag under they're own weight.

[eastberkshirecustoms]

x2 what Bibby said. I might add that being cut from juvenile trees will really increase the likelihood for adverse movement.

[red oaks lumber]

jake
i would sit down next to those small logs and wait for that idea to pass long term that plan would cause you great amounts of frustration.
maybe saw those small logs into 1" lumber and make flooring out of that. or don't take the small logs at all.
sometimes free still costs to much :D

[Rooster]

Jake,

Is this an idea for your covered bridge?

Rooster

[Cedarman]

What species?

[hackberry jake]

Mainly red and white oak. No not for the covered bridge, for flooring in a post and beam cabin.

[Rooster]

Jake,

Is this for a cabin that is already built?...or to be built?

If it's to be built, you might be able to use the smaller trees for round rafters or joists by flattening one side, or make porch railings, interior furniture, etc.

If it's already built, well then my advice is too late.   :

Rooster