03 Mar What is a flat Subfloor? – Things you must know before installing the floor!
The Importance of a flat subfloor
In interior decoration, the flatness of a subfloor is crucial for flooring installation!
A flat subfloor allows the flooring to achieve the best appearance after installation. Conversely, if the subfloor has height differences or is uneven, it can cause the flooring to be lifted, leading to issues such as warping, broken joints, or deformations. This not only affects the functionality of the flooring but also allows water to seep into the subfloor. Additionally, an uneven subfloor creates a noticeable floating sensation underfoot and can even cause noise. In severe cases, it may require removal and re-installation.
What Constitutes a flat Subfloor?
What conditions define a flat subfloor?
We can understand this through the following three criteria:
- Levelness: Use a level tool to check the subfloor. The height difference should not exceed 3 millimeters within a two-meter range.
- Flatness: Measure the distance between any two points with a straightedge to check for gaps. Any gaps should not exceed 2 millimeters.
- Dryness: Normally, the subfloor should remain dry. If there is excessive moisture, it could indicate a leak under the subfloor. In such cases, it is essential to have a specialist inspect the reason.
If you want to install new flooring over existing tiles or floorboards but notice peeling or bulging in the existing flooring, you must first repair the damaged parts and ensure the surface is clean and flat before proceeding with the installation.
What to Do if the Subfloor is Uneven?
This depends on the severity of the unevenness. In some cases, you can grind down localized high spots.
However, if the height differences are significant, the best approach is to hire a professional contractor to re-level the surface. Of course, different situations may require different solutions.
In summary, a flat subfloor not only allows the flooring to achieve the best appearance after installation and provides greater comfort, but it also extends the lifespan of the flooring. We hope this information helps you! If you want to know more about flooring, feel free to leave a message or inbox GPM Flooring on Facebook!