How To Finish Plywood Subfloor

How to Finish Plywood Subfloor: Essential Aspects

A well-finished plywood subfloor is a crucial foundation for any flooring installation. It provides stability, durability, and a smooth surface for your desired flooring material. Finishing a plywood subfloor involves several essential steps, each requiring precision and attention to detail.

1. Prepare the Plywood

Before finishing, ensure the plywood is properly installed and secured to the joists with nails or screws spaced 6-8 inches apart. Remove any protruding nails or screws and fill any gaps or holes with wood filler. Sand the surface with a belt sander or orbital sander to smooth any rough edges or splinters.

2. Check Level and Flatness

A level and flat subfloor is essential for preventing squeaks and unevenness in your flooring. Use a level to check for any slopes or dips. If there are significant level variations, consider using a self-leveling compound to smooth the surface.

3. Install Underlayment

Installing an underlayment over the plywood subfloor provides extra cushioning and soundproofing. Choose an underlayment compatible with your flooring material and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.

4. Sanding and Refinishing

To ensure a pristine finish, sand the plywood subfloor with a fine-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit). This step removes any remaining irregularities or imperfections. If desired, you can apply a wood stain or polyurethane finish to enhance the appearance and protect the wood.

5. Check for Moisture

Moisture can damage plywood subfloors, so it's crucial to check for moisture before installing flooring. Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content of the plywood. If the moisture level exceeds 12%, it must be corrected before continuing with the flooring installation.

6. Priming

Priming the plywood subfloor helps create a barrier between the wood and the flooring material, preventing potential moisture issues. Choose a primer specifically designed for subfloors and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

7. Flooring Installation

Once the subfloor is properly finished and prepared, you can proceed with installing your desired flooring material. Whether you choose hardwood, laminate, or vinyl, ensure you follow the specific installation requirements for that material.

Additional Tips

Use high-quality plywood with a moisture-resistant coating.
Allow the plywood subfloor to acclimate to the room temperature and humidity for at least 24 hours before finishing.
If you're finishing the subfloor in a humid environment, consider using a moisture-resistant underlayment.
Let the finish dry completely before installing the flooring material.
Regular maintenance, such as vacuuming or mopping, will help keep your plywood subfloor in good condition.

By following these essential steps and incorporating these additional tips, you can ensure your plywood subfloor is properly finished, providing a stable and durable foundation for your flooring for years to come.