Flooring Outfitters Inc.
Wood Subfloor Guidelines
- Air conditioning and heating systems must be operating at 21o Celsius for a minimum of one week.
- Prior to the installation the relative humidity must be maintained at about 40% between 35% & 55% and at all times after the installation.
- Wooden subfloor moisture test should not exceed 12% and the difference between your subfloor & boards should be less than 2% to 4% depending on the width of the board.
- Acclimatization of your wood requires the wood to be in the room were the installations will occur generally for a minimum of 72 hrs. The product must be checked to meet the manufacturer's moisture guide lines before the installation begins.
- Installation of your wood requires a minimum of 3/4" OSB or 5/8" plywood over 16" center. A thicker product may be required if your joists are wider than 16" centers or cross brace the joists.
- Rescuer joists every 6" to 9" to remove squeaks, remember last chance to access the joists
- Subfloor surface must be flat. The average maximum tolerance is 3/16" in 10'. If levelling is required sand or use levelling compound to fix uneven spots. Some manufacturers recommend up to 6 layers of 15 lbs builders felt. Excessive sanding may lead to your subfloor being not thick enough.
- For double layered subfloors the second layer should be 4' x 8' x 1/2" plywood and should be offset by 1/2 a sheet in both directions to existing subflooring. The second layer may also be laid perpendicular to existing subfloor. Secure every 9' on a grid pattern and don`t forget to leave a 1/8" expansion joint around the perimeter of the plywood sheets.
- Hardwood may be installed parallel to the joists by installing an approved subfloor underlayment, a min. of 1/2" thick.
- Use tar paper or wax paper to cover your subfloor floor, prior to laying out the hardwood boards. Do not use polyethylene films (i.e. 6 mil poly) as it could trap moisture on or in the board.
- Hardwood floor installation should be the last step of your construction job to minimize damage from excess traffic, etc. Relative humidity must be maintained throughout the installation
- Please feel free to contact us with any of questions or concerns you may have
All necessary licencing, Liability and WCB coverage are carried by the company for your protection
Note: Always follow manufacturer's recommendations