Remember that time I decided to refinish my old hardwood floors? I was excited to reveal the beautiful wood underneath, but when I started pulling up the carpet, I was met with a horrifying sight. The subfloor underneath was completely rotten! It was a disaster waiting to happen, and it taught me a valuable lesson: the material underneath your hardwood flooring is just as important as the flooring itself.
Image: balconiesandhandrails.co.uk
This experience made me realize that many homeowners don’t understand the importance of subfloors and the vital role they play in the overall strength and stability of hardwood floors. This led me on a quest for knowledge about subfloors, and today I’m sharing my discoveries with you. Get ready to dive into the world of subfloors and learn everything you need to know about what goes under your hardwood flooring.
Why The Subfloor Matters
So, why are subfloors so important? Think of them as the hidden foundation of your hardwood floor. They provide a level and stable surface for your flooring, preventing squeaks, dips, and unevenness. They also help distribute weight, ensuring your floors can withstand everyday use without cracking or warping. In a nutshell, a good subfloor is the key to happy, long-lasting hardwood floors.
The subfloor is also crucial for sound insulation. If you’ve ever walked barefoot on a creaky, old floor, you know how annoying it can be. A proper subfloor helps to absorb sound, making your home quieter and more comfortable. Plus, a well-installed subfloor can improve the overall energy efficiency of your home by preventing heat loss through the floor.
Understanding Subfloors
Subfloors are typically made of plywood, OSB (Oriented Strand Board), or even concrete. The most common types are plywood and OSB, as they are readily available and affordable. They come in various thicknesses, depending on the strength and support needed. You’ll want to choose a subfloor material that is strong enough to handle the weight of your hardwood flooring and the foot traffic in your home.
Plywood is known for its strength, durability and stability, making it a popular choice for subfloors. OSB is a more cost-effective option, and it’s generally just as strong. However, it’s less resistant to moisture than plywood, so it’s not ideal for bathrooms or other wet areas.
The thickness of the subfloor also affects its strength and stability. Generally, thicker subfloors provide better support and are less prone to flexing. However, the thickness of the subfloor should be coordinated with the height of the floor joists to prevent unnecessary height increases, so it’s important to consult with a professional about the right thickness for your specific project.
Installation and Preparation
Before installing a subfloor, you need to make sure the existing floor joists are strong enough to support the weight of your new hardwood floor. This involves checking the joists for rot, damage, and proper spacing. If the joists are in poor condition, you may need to replace them or install additional joists for additional support.
Once the joists are in good condition, you can begin installing the subfloor. It’s important to use screws to attach the subfloor to the joists, as nails can loosen over time. This ensures a secure and long-lasting bond. If you are working with a plywood subfloor, be sure to lay the sheets in a staggered pattern to provide additional strength and stability.
You should also consider the existing floor slope since it can influence the final height of your new hardwood flooring. If you’re working with an uneven subfloor, you may want to use leveling compound to create a smooth and level surface. However, consider the type of hardwood flooring you are installing as some types, like engineered hardwood, can be installed over a properly prepared plywood subfloor without the need for leveling. Solid wood flooring, on the other hand, requires a perfectly level subfloor to avoid issues with cupping or buckling.
Image: almahdihardwoodflooring.com
Underlayment: The Hidden Hero
Now that we’ve covered subfloors, let’s move on to underlayment. While the subfloor provides structural support, the underlayment plays a key role in cushioning, sound insulation, and moisture control. Think of it as a protective layer between the subfloor and your hardwood floors.
Underlayment is usually made of materials like foam, cork, or rubber that are designed to absorb impact and sound. It creates a more comfortable walking surface and reduces noise from foot traffic. Some underlayments even include moisture barriers that help to prevent water damage.
The type of underlayment you choose will depend on your needs and budget. Thicker underlayments provide better cushioning and noise reduction, but they can also increase the height of your floor. If you are working with a low-profile hardwood floor, you may want to choose a thin underlayment to minimize the overall floor height. Ultimately, the best underlayment for your needs will depend on your specific project and preferences.
Tips for Choosing the Right Subfloor and Underlayment
- Consider your flooring type: Different hardwood floors have different installation requirements. For instance, solid hardwood flooring needs a more stable subfloor than engineered hardwood.
- Check your local building codes: Local building codes may have specific requirements regarding the thickness and type of subfloor you can use.
- Install a moisture barrier: If you are living in a humid area or if your subfloor is exposed to moisture, consider installing a moisture barrier to protect your hardwood flooring.
- Don’t skimp on subfloor thickness: Thicker subfloors provide better support and are less likely to flex or sag under heavy weight.
- Choose the right underlayment: Consider your budget and your needs. Thin underlayment is best for sound reduction, while thicker underlayment provides better cushioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I install hardwood flooring directly onto concrete?
A: Yes, you can install hardwood flooring directly onto a concrete subfloor. However, you will need to ensure the concrete is level and smooth. You may also need to use a moisture barrier to prevent water damage.
Q: What is the best type of subfloor for hardwood flooring?
A: Plywood and OSB are both good options for subfloors. Plywood is stronger and more stable, while OSB is more cost-effective. The best option for you will depend on your budget, the strength requirements of your floor, and any local building codes. Consider consulting a professional contractor to help you determine the best option for your project.
Q: How can I prevent hardwood floors from squeaking?
A: If your hardwood floors are starting to squeak, the problem likely lies in the subfloor. This can happen if the subfloor is not installed properly or if the joists are not strong enough. You can try to fix squeaky floors by adding extra screws to the subfloor or by adding bracing to the joists. A professional contractor can assess the issue further and fix the squeaks for a long-term solution.
Q: What is the best way to install a subfloor?
A: The best way to install a subfloor is to use screws to attach the plywood or OSB sheets to the joists. Make sure the sheets are laid in a staggered pattern and that you are using the correct size screws. If you are unsure how to install a subfloor, it is best to consult with a professional contractor.
What Do You Put Under Hardwood Flooring
Conclusion
The subfloor is the hidden foundation of your hardwood floor, supporting its strength, stability and longevity. Understanding the role of subfloors and underlayment is crucial in achieving a beautiful and long-lasting hardwood floor installation. By choosing the right subfloor and underlayment materials, you can ensure your floors stay strong, soundproof, and resilient for years to come.
Are you still curious about subfloors and your hardwood flooring project? Share your questions and thoughts in the comments below!
