Only now is the subfloor ready for cement board underlayment.
Subfloor required for wood floor.
If the existing subfloor is in poor condition you will need to add a secondary underlayment of thin plywood over the subfloor.
Subfloors such as vinyl carpet concrete or ceramics cannot support a solid hardwood installation and should be removed before you install.
As with hardwood laminate flooring is best installed on a 3 4 inch thick plywood subfloor.
Considering the fasteners are installed at a 45 degree angle or blind nailed overall thickness required runs about 5 8 of one inch.
Additionally a steps must be taken to ensure that a concrete floor will create a solid bond.
As with a wooden subfloor a concrete subfloor must be level for successful tile installation.
The underlayment provides many benefits including moisture protection sound and thermal insulation and a cushion to make the floor more comfortable to walk on.
The warranty may require it.
Replace any nails with screws since nails that popped up will loosen again.
Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor.
Flooring hardwood flooring joists osb panels osb subflooring panels osb wood panels plywood plywood.
An underlayment is a necessity for any wood floor installation even on a plywood subfloor.
Your subfloors play an integral part in the success of your hardwood flooring.
Most brands of hardwood flooring can be installed over concrete when plywood or osb subflooring panels have been installed over the concrete slab but it s wise to consult the manufacturer for any specific installation requirements.
If the subfloor is plywood or particle board start by screwing down any loose boards or plywood sheets.
Add more wood screws if needed to secure them.
Prior to finished floor installation walk the subfloor to check for squeaks missing fasteners improper nailing etc.
An engineered hardwood can be installed over a concrete wood tile and full adhered vinyl subfloors when installed as a floating or glue down floor.
They are easier to work with but still provide a solid foundation to support your hardwood floors for years to come.
To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration.
Wood subfloors are the preferred type of subfloor for solid hardwood flooring installations.
Forgetting to check your work.
No matter which subfloor you are dealing with you need to let everyone involved know what is needed for a successful wood flooring installation.
If additional force is needed always use a block of wood against the groove edge to minimize damage to the panel and always allow a 1 8 inch gap between panels.