How to Prep Your Subfloor for Hardwood or Vinyl Plank Flooring Like a Pro

Why Subfloor Prep Matters

A smooth, stable subfloor is the heart of any great flooring job. Skip this step, and you might face problems like gaps where planks don’t fit, cracks from uneven spots, or annoying squeaks when you walk. Taking a little time to prep ensures your hardwood or LVP floor looks stunning and lasts for years. It’s worth the effort!

Step 1: Check for Flatness

Your subfloor needs to be nice and flat. Experts recommend no more than 3/16" of dip or rise over 10 feet, or about 1/8" over 6 feet. Grab a long level or straightedge and slide it across to find high or low spots. Mark any dips with a pencil. For thicker LVP planks (6.5mm or more), small dips might be okay because they’re flexible. Hardwood, however, needs a flatter surface to prevent issues like seam splits or warping. Take your time here—it sets the stage for success!

Step 2: Clean and Patch It Up

Start with a clean slate, whether your subfloor is concrete or plywood. Sweep away dust, scrape off old adhesive, and remove staples or carpet tack strip nails. Spot any cracks or holes? Here’s what to do:

• Concrete: Fill small cracks or nail holes with a latex-based patching compound. Smooth it with a putty knife.

• Plywood: Use wood filler for knots or gaps, then sand it down to keep it even.

A shop vac and hand sander can make this quick and easy. For bigger cracks or uneven seams, a floor sander might be your best friend. A clean, patched subfloor is ready for the next step!

Step 3: Level Those Dips

Found a dip or slope? Let’s fix it:

• Small dips (up to 1/4"): Spread patching compound over low spots. Apply in thin layers, let it dry, and sand it smooth.

• Bigger dips or slopes: For larger uneven areas, especially on concrete, use a self-leveling compound. Prime the subfloor first, mix the compound, pour it, and let it spread out. Wait 24 hours for it to set.

If you have a plywood subfloor, secure loose boards with 2" construction screws to stop squeaks. Check that floor joists are sturdy too. This step keeps your floor steady and silent!

Step 4: Fix Issues After Installation (If Needed)

If you’ve already laid LVP and notice bending or dipping, especially at the edges, an uneven subfloor might be the culprit. You may need to lift the affected planks, level the dip with self-leveling compound, and reinstall them. It’s a bit of work, but it beats dealing with damaged flooring later. For minor dips under flexible LVP, you can monitor it; however, hardwood or glue-down LVP won’t tolerate unevenness. Act early to save your floor!

Step 5: Final Touches Before Installation

Before you start laying flooring, do these checks:

• Double-check flatness with your level.

• Test concrete subfloors for moisture; aim for under 10%, or follow your flooring’s guidelines, to prevent warping.

• Add underlayment for LVP to cushion it and reduce noise. Hardwood might not need it, depending on the installation method.

These final steps ensure your floor goes down smoothly and stays that way!

Why Choose Vision Flooring?

At Vision Flooring, we’ve been crafting perfect floors in Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Everett, and Snohomish for over 20 years. Led by Alex Babko, our team brings unmatched expertise to every subfloor prep and installation. We use top-quality tools and techniques to create a rock-solid base, so your hardwood or LVP flooring looks amazing and lasts. Customers rave about our attention to detail, custom solutions, and commitment to doing it right the first time. Let us help you!

Ready for a Flawless Floor?

Turn your home into a masterpiece with flooring that lasts. Contact Vision Flooring for expert subfloor prep and installation in Bellevue, Snohomish, and King County. Call us today at 425-218-4234 or contact us online to get started!

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