Hardwood flooring in Chatham, London and Sarnia, ON is a timeless and elegant choice for many homeowners, but a common question arises during the planning phase: Does hardwood need a subfloor? The answer is a bit nuanced, as it depends on several factors.
Uncover the ins and outs of hardwood flooring and subfloors with Sacwal Flooring Centres.
The role of a subfloor
A subfloor is a structural layer installed beneath the finished flooring. It serves several crucial functions:
- Structural Support: The subfloor provides a stable base for the hardwood flooring, preventing it from sagging, warping, or cracking underfoot.
- Moisture Barrier: It acts as a barrier against moisture rising from the ground, protecting the hardwood from damage.
- Sound Insulation: The subfloor can help dampen sound transmission, reducing noise levels in your home.
- Leveling: It can smooth out minor imperfections in the underlying floor structure, ensuring a level surface for the hardwood installation.
When is a subfloor necessary for hardwood flooring?
Concrete slab:
If your home is built on a concrete slab, a subfloor is essential. You'll need a layer of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) to provide a stable and moisture-resistant base for the hardwood.
Existing flooring:
If you're replacing an existing floor with hardwood, the type of existing flooring will determine whether a subfloor is needed. If you have a plywood or OSB subfloor in good condition, you may be able to install hardwood directly over it. However, if you have a concrete slab or another incompatible material, you'll need to add a subfloor.
Installation method:
Some hardwood installation methods, like nail-down, require a subfloor for the nails to anchor into. Other methods, like floating floors, may not strictly require a subfloor, but it's still recommended for optimal stability and performance.
Types of subfloors for hardwood flooring
- Plywood: A common and versatile choice for subfloors. Available in various thicknesses, it provides good structural support and moisture resistance.
- Oriented Strand Board (OSB): A cost-effective alternative to plywood, OSB is made from wood strands compressed and bonded together.
- Concrete Board: Used primarily over concrete slabs, concrete board is a cement-based material known for its moisture resistance and durability.
Alternatives to traditional subfloors
Underlayment:
A thin layer of material installed between the subfloor and hardwood, underlayment can provide additional moisture protection, sound insulation, and cushioning. It can be a good option for floating hardwood floors.
Sleeper system
Used when the subfloor is uneven or unstable, a sleeper system consists of wood strips installed on top of the subfloor to create a level surface for the hardwood.
Find beautiful hardwood floors and quality installation services with Sacwal Floring Centres
Whether or not your hardwood flooring needs a subfloor depends on several factors, including the type of existing flooring, installation method, and the condition of the subfloor itself. In most cases, a subfloor is necessary for optimal performance and longevity of your hardwood floors.
Need expert advice on subfloors and hardwood flooring installation? Call or visit Sacwal Flooring Centres in Chatham, London, or Sarnia, Ontario. With over 35 years of experience serving Southwestern Ontario communities, we can guide you through the entire flooring process, ensuring your new hardwood floors are installed correctly and built to last.
