- Install a layer of at least 1⁄2” or preferably 5/8” ply over the existing planks.
- This is particularly important if your old sub floor has lumps and bumps in it.
- If you don’t respect this thickness of ply, then you’re highly likely to see rises and falls in your new flooring.
Thus, Why are there soft spots in my floor? Three major causes of soft spots include excessive moisture, an expansion gap, an unbalanced subfloor, and pests.
Additionally What does subfloor mold look like? Even if you have access to professional moisture detection meters, subfloor mold can be difficult to discover. Perhaps the easiest means of detecting a subfloor mold problem are seeing discoloration on vinyl flooring, warping or distortion in areas of flooring, or the presence of malodors.
Is it easy to replace subfloor? If your subfloor is in need of replacement, the damaged portion will need to be completely cut out. This also requires the removal of all floor covering over the problem area as well as the accompanying underlayment materials. The process for this portion of the job will vary based on the type of flooring you have.
How do you fix a subfloor underneath?
How do you fix a spongy subfloor?
Fix bouncy floors by adding bridging, adding a layer of plywood or adding a wall or beam. We’ll show you three ways to stiffen up your bouncy floor—by adding bridging, installing plywood along the joists and adding a wall or beam under the floor. Any one of the three can solve your problem, depending on your situation.
Why does my floor pop when walked on?
If your floors are nailed down to the subfloor, the popping noise could be coming from the nails. The sound happens when a plank becomes loose and the nail rubs against the subfloor. If you have access to your floors from underneath, driving screws into the loose planks will usually solve the problem.
What causes soft spots in floor?
Three major causes of soft spots include excessive moisture, an expansion gap, an unbalanced subfloor, and pests.
How do you know if your joists are rotten?
“Bouncy” floors are a very common sign of rotten floor joists. A musty or damp smell in certain rooms of your house is a clue to the presence of mold or decay. This is often the first sign of a damaged joist.
How do I know if my subfloor is rotted?
How do I know if My Subfloor is Rotten? A water-damaged subfloor feels spongy underfoot. It might bounce or squeak when you walk across the room. Sagging boards, damp spots and unpleasant musty smells are also signs of a rotting subfloor.
Why does my floor bounce when I walk on it?
Trusses undersized, spaced too far apart or sub floor not proper strength for span. Trusses that are undersized for the weight that they are carrying will often sag, be bouncy or spongy when walked upon.
