Subfloor Requirements For Laminate Flooring

Wood and concrete are the idea subfloors.

Subfloor requirements for laminate flooring.

Do this by multiplying the room s length by its width. Most but not all laminate floor manufacturers require a subfloor to be flat within 3 16 over a 10 foot radius. In some instances you might be able to install your flooring over an existing floor but it is important to check prior to installation if it is a suitable material. The goal is to have a wooden subfloor consisting of two.

To test your subfloor for moisture you should always take a moisture reading. No matter the flooring concrete subfloors should always be cured for at least 60 days before a flooring installation. Before you install your plywood subfloor first calculate the room s square footage to find out how much flooring you ll need to buy. The flooring must be installed crossing the floor joists at a 90 degree angle.

It s also the subfloor that can hold in the most moisture. With much of today s wood flooring being thinner wider plank installed on the minimum building code panel thicknesses we are seeing more creaks pops and squeaks. Flat and level laminate flooring subfloor. The key to a beautiful long lasting hardwood or laminate floor is a well prepared subfloor.

For more information download our pdf about types of subfloors. Laminate flooring thinner laminate type flooring can be installed over osb subfloor over the recommended foam pad. How to level a subfloor for laminate flooring. Subfloors are the base layer on which all finish materials such as carpet laminate tile and wood are installed.

If the laminate flooring is installed parallel to the direction of the floor joists the laminate flooring could develop distortion later. Measure and cut 1 4 inch or thicker plywood with a circular saw to fit the entire floor of the room where you are installing vinyl flooring. Other manufacturers will have a different requirement though flat and level is a common requirement. Materials not suitable for a laminate installation.

A flat and level surface is. The building code for the subfloor is to ensure structural loads are adequate from a safety perspective not necessarily from a wood flooring performance perspective. A subfloor is the bottom most structural level of your floor. Laminate flooring cannot ever be installed on a subfloor made of carpet or padding.

Concrete is one of the most common types of subfloors found in homes.