How To Lay Plywood On Floor Joists

Installing plywood flooring on floor joists is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours. Here are the steps on how to lay plywood on floor joists:

Materials you'll need:

Plywood sheets (3/4-inch to 1-inch thick)

Floor joists

Circular saw or jigsaw

Drill

Hammer or nail gun

Nails or screws (1-1/2 to 2 inches long)

Tape measure

Chalk line

Level

Pry bar (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the floor joists

Before you start laying plywood, you need to make sure that the floor joists are level and evenly spaced. To do this, use a level to check the joists and use a chalk line to mark any areas that need to be leveled. Then, use a circular saw to cut any joists that are too high or too low.

Step 2: Cut the plywood sheets

Next, you need to cut the plywood sheets to fit the floor joists. To do this, measure the distance between the joists and cut the plywood sheets to that length. You may need to use a circular saw or jigsaw to cut the plywood.

Step 3: Lay the plywood sheets

Once the plywood sheets are cut, you can start laying them on the floor joists. Start by laying the first sheet in the corner of the room and secure it to the joists with nails or screws. Then, continue laying the plywood sheets in rows, working your way across the room. Make sure that the edges of the plywood sheets are flush with each other and that there are no gaps between the sheets.

Step 4: Secure the plywood sheets

Once the plywood sheets are laid, you need to secure them to the floor joists. To do this, use a hammer or nail gun to drive nails or screws into the joists through the plywood. Make sure that the nails or screws are countersunk into the plywood so that they do not protrude above the surface.

Step 5: Finish the floor

Once the plywood sheets are secured, you can finish the floor by sanding it smooth and applying a sealant or finish. Sanding the floor will remove any splinters or rough edges, and applying a sealant or finish will protect the floor from wear and tear.