Subfloor Preparation Basics

Are you thinking about installing new flooring? Before you start picking out the perfect flooring material and design, let’s talk about the importance of proper subfloor preparation. Brian Moffitt, a flooring expert with Uzin, gave a presentation to EVstudio staff earlier this year emphasizing the importance of subfloor preparation. We’re passing that wisdom along to you!

What is subflooring?

Think of the subfloor as the foundation of your flooring. Just like a house needs a sturdy foundation, your flooring needs a smooth, level subfloor to provide stability and support. Any irregularities in the subfloor, such as bumps or dips, can cause your finished floor to look uneven and unprofessional.

Keep it clean.

Not only should your subfloor be smooth and level, but it should also be free of contaminants such as oil and grease, dust, asphalt and tar, and chemical adhesive removers. These pesky contaminants can interfere with the bonding of the flooring material to the subfloor, resulting in a failed installation. Depending on the type of contaminant, different cleaning methods may be required, such as sanding, scraping, or using specialized cleaning products.

Once the subfloor is clean, it’s time to assess its condition. Are there any dips or bumps? Is it level? If not, you may need to use leveling compounds or underlays to create a smooth, level surface.

Long-lasting results.

Investing in a good subfloor means the flooring itself will be more durable. Proper preparation of the subfloor is essential to ensure a successful flooring installation that will last for years to come. So take the time to get your subfloor in tip-top shape before laying down your new flooring. Remember, the nicer the canvas, the nicer the end result!

Want help from the professionals on making the most of redoing your floors? Contact us today to get in touch with our Interior Design team to get started.

 

Author

Article Categories

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.