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Replacing underlayment is a necessary step in many home improvement projects, especially when installing new flooring. Here are the key steps to follow:
1. Remove the existing flooring: Start by removing the old flooring material, such as carpet, vinyl, or laminate. Use appropriate tools and techniques to avoid damaging the subfloor.
2. Inspect the subfloor: Once the flooring is removed, thoroughly inspect the subfloor for any damage or signs of moisture. Repair any issues before proceeding.
3. Choose the right underlayment: Select an underlayment material that suits your needs, such as plywood or cement board. Consider factors like moisture resistance, soundproofing, and insulation.
4. Measure and cut: Measure the dimensions of the room and cut the underlayment sheets accordingly. Leave a small gap around the edges to allow for expansion.
5. Install the underlayment: Lay down the underlayment sheets, making sure they are properly aligned and secured. Use nails, screws, or adhesive, depending on the type of underlayment.
6. Seal the seams: Seal any seams or gaps between the underlayment sheets using appropriate sealant or tape. This helps to prevent moisture and sound transmission.
7. Proceed with flooring installation: Once the underlayment is in place, you can proceed with installing your new flooring material, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace the underlayment and ensure a solid foundation for your new flooring.
Underlayment for flooring comes in various forms, such as plywood, cement board, carpet padding, or foam material. Its purpose is to create a smooth and flat base that sits beneath the finished floor. There are instances when the underlayment needs to be replaced, like when there is damage to the floor or when updating the flooring material.
Understanding Underlayment Basics
Underlayment plays a vital role in flooring, and most types of floors require some form of underlayment between the subflooring and the finished floor. It provides benefits like a flat surface, sound dampening, moisture barrier, and insulation. It is generally recommended to include underlayment when installing finished flooring material.
The type of underlayment used depends on the flooring. For example, plywood is not suitable for tile flooring due to its tendency to expand and contract. Carpet padding is used under carpets, and foam is commonly used for laminate flooring. However, it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the finished flooring material, as some already come with an included underlayment layer.
Smooth plywood is the ideal choice for sheeting-style flooring like vinyl or linoleum. It provides a flat surface without imperfections that could show through on these types of floors. Luan plywood or an equivalent material is suitable for both vinyl and linoleum flooring. Installation can be done professionally or as a DIY project.
Replacing Plywood Underlayment: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Remove the Flooring
Plywood underlayment can get damaged, especially from water. If you suspect damage, look for signs such as soft spots, musty odors, visible mold, or loose flooring. Additionally, you may want to replace the underlayment when changing from one flooring type to another, like replacing carpet with vinyl tiles.
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Start by removing the finished floor using tools like a circular saw, pry bar, hammer, and reciprocating saw. If screws were used, a screw gun will also be necessary. Work on sections, removing the plywood underlayment and all the nails/screws that attach it to the subfloor.
After removing the underlayment, inspect the flooring joists to ensure their stability and structural integrity. Remember, the underlayment is not meant to provide structural support; that’s the role of the subfloor.
Step 2: Prepare the Plywood and Strengthen the Subfloor
The importance of allowing the material to acclimate before installation is emphasized by APA – The Engineered Wood Association. Bring the plywood underlayment panels into the designated installation area and let them sit for several days. This enables the material to adjust to the humidity levels in the house, which is crucial for a successful installation. Ensure there is sufficient air circulation in the room. Leave space between the panels to facilitate easy acclimatization.
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Inspect the subfloor and reinforce any weak areas. It should be sturdy and as level as possible. If there are any uneven sections, loose spots, or squeaky areas, secure them with screws before laying down the new plywood underlayment. Additionally, check for any high spots and sand them down if necessary. Preparing this area for the underlayment should not require much effort as long as the subfloor itself is not significantly damaged.
Step 3: Attach the Plywood Underlayment to the Subfloor
The next step involves installing the plywood underlayment material. Place the long sides of the plywood underlayment sheets perpendicular to the joists to enhance strength. Ensure that the smooth side of the panel is facing the ceiling. This is particularly important if the finished floor will be made of vinyl or linoleum, but it is a good practice to always lay the rough side down. The goal is to securely install the panels to the subfloor.
Secure the panels with galvanized staples with a 1/4-inch or smaller crown. Alternatively, screws or ring-shank nails can be used, but staples are quicker and easier to install. Use an air stapler to drive the staples and make sure to adjust the depth properly. If the staples go too deep, they will penetrate the underlayment, and if they are too shallow, they may be visible through the flooring. Utilize coated fasteners to prevent rusting and bleeding through the finished floor. There is no need to use adhesive to secure the plywood underlayment to the subfloor.
The APA recommends offsetting the ends of the sheets from the ends of the subfloor by at least one joist space for maximum stability. At the edges, the offset should be no less than 2 inches. Similar to a subfloor, leave a gap for expansion, but for underlayment panels, this gap should be 1/32 inch. Create this space at the outer edges of the floor. Stagger the edges of the underlayment by 2 inches from the subfloor edges. Finish with sanding if any high spots remain.
Step 4: Fill Gaps in the Underlayment
Prior to installing the finished floor covering, fill the gaps between the plywood sheets. This will provide a smooth and uninterrupted surface. Home improvement stores offer filling or patching products specifically designed for underlayment. Apply the fill product before installing the final flooring and ensure it is fully dry before proceeding. Install the finished flooring material as soon as possible afterwards to prevent any damage to the plywood underlayment.
