You’re ready to remodel. You can’t wait to install new floors. After all, you’ve had your eye on new flooring materials for a long time. You’ve pinned ideas to your pinboard, and browsed through home improvement sites like it was your job.

Yet before you settle on your idea of perfect floors, it’s time to answer a few questions.

• Are your current floors uneven?
• Do they squeak in certain areas?
• Did your current floors face premature wear and tear?
• Do you have moisture problems?

Any or all of these might be contributors to your current remodeling dreams. But if you don’t get to the underlying problems, you might face the same circumstances again with whatever flooring material you install.

That’s because proper subfloor preparation is uber important to the quality of your flooring materials being installed. And yet, not a lot of information is out there telling homeowners how important it truly is.

Consider this your wakeup call.

Understanding Subfloor Materials

The first thing to realize is that not all subfloor materials are the same, nor can all subflooring materials be used in every circumstance. This is where it pays to do your due diligence, and find a flooring contractor you can trust. Because proper subfloor preparation is crucial for a successful flooring installation. Each has its unique benefits and drawbacks.

Plywood is a popular choice for subfloors. Made from thin layers of wood veneer glued together, plywood is known for its strength and stability. It’s durable, resistant to warping and shrinking, and easy to cut and install. However, it can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly sealed and tends to be more expensive than other options.

Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is another common subfloor material. OSB is made from wood strands and adhesives, creating a sturdy and uniform panel. It’s cost-effective and has high shear strength, making it suitable for subflooring. While OSB is resistant to warping and splitting, it is more prone to moisture damage than plywood and requires proper sealing.

Concrete subfloors are typically found in basements, ground floors, and commercial buildings. They provide a robust and stable base for various flooring types. Concrete is extremely durable, long-lasting, and excellent for areas with heavy foot traffic. However, it can crack over time and requires a level surface for proper flooring installation. Additionally, installing and repairing concrete can be labor-intensive.

Cement Board, also known as backer board, is commonly used in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Composed of cement and reinforcing fibers, it is highly resistant to moisture and mold. Cement board provides a solid base for tile installations and adds strength to the subfloor structure. On the downside, it is heavier and harder to cut than other materials, and can be more expensive.

Particle Board is made from wood chips and sawmill shavings bound together with resin. It is less commonly used as a primary subfloor material. Particle board is inexpensive and easy to work with, providing a smooth surface for flooring installation. However, it is less durable and prone to swelling and disintegration when exposed to moisture, making it unsuitable for high-humidity areas.

Hardboard, or high-density fiberboard (HDF), is made from compressed wood fibers and is denser than particle board. It offers a smooth and uniform surface, resistant to denting and wear. Hardboard is typically used as an underlayment rather than a primary subfloor. Like particle board, it is not water-resistant and can swell when exposed to moisture, so careful handling is required.

You can look to your current subfloor as a guide for what you’ll need with your new floorings. But it may change, depending on the flooring you’re installing.

Before You Begin, Prepare The Subfloor

You’ve picked out your flooring. It’s almost installation day. Your flooring contractor will also talk with you about preparing the subfloor before your new floors are installed. Without proper subfloor preparation, you might not have success with your new floors or have long-lasting results. Things a flooring contractor will assess include:

Moisture Levels

Moisture is one of the most critical factors in subfloor preparation. Excess moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and damage to both the subfloor and the flooring material. It’s essential to measure the moisture levels of the subfloor and ensure they are within acceptable limits for the type of flooring you plan to install. Moisture barriers or sealants may be required to protect the subfloor.

Subfloor Material

The type of subfloor material you are working with will significantly impact the preparation process. Each material, whether it’s plywood, OSB, concrete, cement board, particle board, or hardboard, has its unique properties and requirements. Any flooring contractor has specific ideas on which to choose to go with different flooring materials to provide you with the greatest results.

Structural Integrity

Before installing new flooring, check the structural integrity of the subfloor. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or weak spots. Repair any issues to ensure the subfloor can support the new flooring. Reinforcing or replacing damaged sections might be necessary to provide a solid and stable base.

Levelness

A level subfloor is crucial for preventing uneven flooring, which can lead to gaps, squeaks, and premature wear. If there are any high spots or low spots, they should be sanded down or filled with a leveling compound to create a smooth and even surface.

Cleanliness

The subfloor must be clean and free of debris before installation. Dirt, dust, and other particles can interfere with the adhesion of flooring materials and lead to problems down the line. Vacuum and clean the subfloor thoroughly, and remove any nails, staples, or other protrusions that could cause issues.

Temperature and Humidity

The ambient temperature and humidity levels in the installation area can affect subfloor preparation and flooring installation. Many flooring materials require specific temperature and humidity conditions for proper installation. Ensure that the installation environment is within the recommended range for the flooring product you are using.

Adhesives and Fasteners

The choice of adhesives and fasteners is also crucial in subfloor preparation. Different subfloor materials and flooring types require specific adhesives and fasteners to ensure a secure and long-lasting bond. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.

Subfloor Conditioning

Some subfloor materials, such as concrete, may require conditioning before installation. This can include applying a primer or sealant to improve adhesion and protect against moisture. Follow the specific preparation steps recommended for your subfloor material to ensure optimal performance.

Existing Flooring

If there is existing flooring, you must decide whether to remove it or install the new flooring over it. Removing old flooring can provide a fresh, clean surface but may involve additional labor and cost. Installing over existing flooring can save time but requires ensuring the old flooring is in good condition and properly prepared.

Acclimation of Flooring Materials

Before installation, flooring materials often need to acclimate to the environment in which they will be installed. This process involves letting the materials sit in the installation area for a specified period to adjust to the local temperature and humidity levels. Proper acclimation helps prevent issues like expansion, contraction, and warping after installation.

Are You Ready For Your New Floors?

It’s not just the flooring materials you need to choose and select. This is a complex project, and you’ll be involved every step of the way.

Want to rely on experts to ensure the job is done right the first time? Stop by today with your questions, and see our complete line of flooring. We’ll help you find the right floors for your project.