Why You Will Need a Flat Subfloor To Install Floating Wood Floors

by Unique Wood Floorsin Installationon Posted on

Most problems with floating wood floors arise from one common issue—an uneven subfloor. While many people assume that floating wood floors require perfectly level subfloors, the reality is a bit more nuanced. The key factor is having a flat subfloor, as this ensures that your floating engineered hardwood flooring fits properly and performs as expected. A flat subfloor prevents gaps, squeaks, or shifting, helping the floor maintain its stability and longevity.

The Difference Between Level and Flat

A level floor might be crucial in a billiard hall, but you can install floating floors on an uneven subfloor without major issues (though playing pool in that room might be a challenge). The real problems arise when the subfloor is uneven.

While “flat” and “level” may seem interchangeable, they aren’t the same. A floor can be flat but still out of level to a certain degree, and it can still serve as a suitable base for comfortable, quiet wood floors.

To check the flatness of your subfloor, use a straight 2×4, about 10 feet long. Lay it across the floor and inspect the edge of the subfloor. This long piece of wood will help identify any uneven spots, such as dips, bumps, or hollows. These imperfections can lead to squeaks, creaks, and bouncy areas in your floating wood floors.

Typical Problems With Your Floating Wood Floors

If you notice loud and intrusive noises like creaking, squeaking, or a hollow knocking sound coming from your new floating engineered floors, it’s likely due to uneven subflooring. When floating wood floors sit on an uneven surface and pressure is applied to the top, the movement creates noticeable sounds. Depending on the type of hardwood, these noises can range from high-pitched to deep and hollow. Uneven spots, especially lower areas, can cause a pronounced bounce when walked on. The floor gives slightly under pressure, then bounces back with more force than areas just inches away.

Correcting the Uneven Subfloor

Most experts agree that the maximum tolerance for a subfloor is 3/16” over a ten-foot span. Any dips or mounds exceeding this measurement need to be addressed before installation.

How you correct the subfloor depends on its material. For concrete subfloors, the correction process involves screening—filling in lower spots with fresh concrete and leveling it off to create a smooth, flat surface. For wood subfloors, sanding down the uneven areas will ensure a flat surface, ideal for laying floating wood floors.

If your subfloor is significantly uneven, it may be wise to hire a professional installer. Fixing uneven subfloors requires effort and the right tools, but it’s a crucial step in ensuring a smooth, stable foundation for your flooring.

Flat subfloors lead to quiet, well-laid floating wood floors, and correcting any unevenness beforehand will maximize the value and enjoyment of your flooring investment. For advice on subfloor treatment and selecting the best hardwood flooring for your needs, consult with a flooring expert at Unique Wood Floors.