Benefits of Using a Subfloor

Subfloors, joists, and underlayment are popular terms you’ll encounter when looking to repair or upgrade your floor. Most homes, except for some old buildings, have a subfloor.

The subfloor is the middle layer that sits on top of the joists and beneath the underlayment or sound mat. Here are five benefits of using a subfloor on your flooring project:

1. Offers a Sturdy Base for Installation

The subfloor is the bottom horizontal layer that rests on top of the structural joists and supports everything above it. Plywood is preferred for subflooring, but homeowners can also choose oriented strand board (OSB), wood, tile, and more. The subfloor holds the underlayment and finish floor, providing a stable surface for heavy items like furniture and appliances.

Subfloors are sturdy structural layers that provide a flat surface for proper floor installation. You can install a subfloor for various flooring systems, including engineered wood, ceramic tile, laminate, natural stone, vinyl, and carpet. Subfloors also act as bracing and help to prevent the structural joists from lateral movement.

2. Soundproofs Your Hardwood Floor

Subfloors can act as soundproofing layers for hardwood floors and other flooring systems. A sound mat is the ideal solution for reducing noise, but subfloors also contribute to soundproofing. Properly installed subfloors can prevent the wood from creaking and squeaking. The subfloor supports the joist’s side bracing to keep the structural lumbar from moving.

Using a subfloor can dampen noise coming from people living in rooms below. You can add an underlayment or other damping material to reduce noise. Doubling up on the subfloor material can also reduce sound transfer by increasing the mass of the floor.

3. Protects Your Hardwood Planks

A subfloor is a protective layer between your hardwood planks and whatever is beneath the joists. You can install a subfloor to create a barrier between the floor and dirt, which helps to keep your home dry and safe. The subfloor features moisture-resistant plywood, which can protect your hardwood planks from excess moisture and water damage.

You can use a subfloor to keep your floor safe from flooding damage. The layer also protects hardwood floors from heavy furniture and traffic. Subfloors are sturdy, even surfaces that impact the longevity of your hardwood floor. Properly installed subfloors may help provide better results because the subfloor prevents damage like warping and cracking.

4. Reduces Floor Installation Costs

Using a subfloor may reduce the cost of installing or repairing your flooring system. Subfloors work on rocky and uneven lots, so you don’t need to dig up or level the land. The installation is as simple as laying down the subfloor sheets and nailing them to the existing surface. Subfloors are relatively inexpensive compared to hardwood, tiles, and other types of flooring.

Subfloor materials such as plywood and OSB can be inexpensive. Installations and repairs are also easy to achieve. You can enjoy less maintenance and can easily replace damaged and rotten subfloors without tearing up the entire flooring system.

5. Produces Customized Floors

A subfloor gives you a sturdy, solid surface that you can use to install various types of floors. You can install an underlayment or soundproofing mat on top of the subfloor before adding the floor finish. Subfloors allow you to work with rugged lots without much preparation or leveling. You can use unique materials, including plywood, A/C plywood, OSB, and concrete.

Subfloors support various floor finishes, from hardwood to tiles and natural stone. Subfloors are invisible support structure that allows you to install professional floors customized to your needs. You can add other layers on top to achieve the perfect finish. Depending on your needs, you can opt for inexpensive subfloor options or invest a little more for high-quality results.

Try Sound Mats and Subfloors Today

Subfloors can provide soundproofing and complement exclusive noise-proof solutions. A sound mat can dampen noise levels and prevent sound from traveling through subfloors and joists. The mats reduce impact and airborne noise, which can contribute to a more tranquil environment.

Subfloors can work with various mats and underlayment materials. All you need is an expert installer to help you determine the best options for the type of flooring. Stick to reputable companies with sound attenuating subfloor and underlayment solutions and experienced installers.