Everything You Need to Know about Subfloors

If you are ready to shop for hardwood flooring, you should start by preparing your subfloors. There is little that can go wrong with hardwood floors once installed as long as they are properly cleaned and maintained. In fact, they are the best option for the longest-lasting floors. Before your hardwood flooring is installed, though, your subfloors need some attention.

We recommend you hire a professional contractor to install your hardwood flooring Park Ridge. If you live in the Chicago area, we recommend you hire one of our professionals at Peter Flooring to install your hardwood flooring. Though your hardwood should be installed by a professional contractor, you can save a little money by preparing your subfloor by following these simple steps:

1. Clean the surface of the subfloor. This includes cleaning all spills, debris, dust, paint, and adhesives. If your contractor will use the gluing method, the subfloor must be completely cleaned of all spills and anything that has dried on the subfloor using an electric sander. If the contractor is using nail-down, floating, or locking hardwood, the subfloor can be vacuumed thoroughly.
2. Check that the subfloor is level. You can do this with a long level by checking several places in the room where you will have the hardwood installed. If you notice a section that is irregular, you can sand it down, or use leveling compound to bring it up. Work closely with your contractor if you find your floor is irregular, though, because if using nail-down hardwood, you cannot use leveling compound.
3. Check the subfloor for moisture. If there is moisture on your subfloor it will cause you problems with your hardwood even when it is properly installed. You can purchase a moisture testing kit from your local home improvement store. If you find the test in the flooring section of your home improvement store, take it home, and are disappointed to find you have to much moisture on your subfloor, call your contractor. At Tom and Peter Flooring we will offer expert advice for your subfloor problem. We are experienced in all types of subfloor issues.
4. Check the subfloor’s structural integrity. Your subfloor supports the entire weight of the room, distributing it evenly over the floor joists. You can avoid potential problems by checking it over before installation. First, check all of the plywood sheets for squeaks or movement. If you notice any, secure them to the joists below. Second, check the thickness of the subfloor, and make sure it is acceptable to the contractor handling your hardwood installation.