What many overlook is the subflooring ? the surface that any new flooring rests on. It?s critically important to take subflooring into consideration when choosing new flooring and ensure that the space is not only properly prepped, but can accept the type of material you wish to install. As we will detail below, serious issues can arise and can limit the value you get out of your install.
New wood framing
Newer homes with wood framing can accept virtually any material, including tile, vinyl and hardwoods. Again, it?s always important to ensure that your subflooring is properly prepped. For homeowners, it?s a simpler process and really based on preference. This is the most common type of installation by far and typically the most straightforward.Older homes
Older homes come with a lot of charm. They can also come with a number of surprises when it comes to flooring. Decades of wear and tear can really do a number on existing hardwoods and subflooring alike, and areas may need to be replaced.? Areas such as kitchens and bathrooms can have multiple layers of linoleum and vinyl under them already, which could be hiding things like water damage, unevenness and more. Older homes can also creak and moan as you walk across the floor.When thinking about installing new floors in an older home, it?s important to consider making additional repairs to make your flooring stronger, safer and more comfortable. Taking out sags, shoring up joists to reduce creaking or removing old, damaged flooring layers are all common examples.
Concrete slab
Many homes in the PA area have additions that have been built on concrete slab. Additionally, many homeowners are converting their basements into living spaces and newer homes include basement living spaces practically by default.Besides tile, any flooring that is installed on concrete slabs need to be properly prepped with vapor barriers to help move trapped moisture out. Certain underlayment?s that are put down between the slab and the flooring can also offer sound dampening properties, making your flooring quieter and even a bit more comfortable.
Anything Else?
Before putting down flooring, it?s important to consider any other changes you would want to your living space.? It might save considerable time and money to do little things like moving an electrical outlet, installing a baseboard or air duct, etc. before putting new flooring down. You can also consider certain upgrades such as heated flooring.Hampstead Floor Company has helped countless happy homeowners with the proper installation of their floors. Our experienced installers remove any existing flooring, inspect the subflooring and make repairs as required. For installations on concrete, we will check to ensure that the slab is free of low and high spots. We consult with our clients every step of the way to ensure a smooth installation with fantastic results.
Have a project in mind? Give us a call today and a member of our team will be happy to learn more about your project and schedule a no obligation consultation.
