In home renovation, a subfloor refers to the layer of material that is installed directly over the structural floor joists and under the finished flooring. It serves as a stable and flat surface for the installation of various types of flooring, such as hardwood, laminate, tile, or carpet.
The subfloor is typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) panels, although other materials like cement board or concrete can be used in specific situations. It provides several important functions:
Stability: The subfloor adds structural stability to the floor system by distributing the weight of the flooring and any loads placed on it evenly across the floor joists.
Flat surface: It creates a level and even surface for the installation of the finished flooring. This is especially crucial for certain types of flooring, such as tile or hardwood, which require a smooth and sturdy base.
Moisture protection: The subfloor acts as a barrier against moisture that may seep up from the ground or from the lower levels of the house. It helps prevent warping, rotting, or mold growth in the flooring.
Noise reduction: The subfloor can help minimize sound transmission between floors by providing an additional layer of insulation and dampening vibrations.
During home renovation, if the existing subfloor is damaged or inadequate, it may need to be replaced or reinforced before installing new flooring. Additionally, in some cases, additional layers of subflooring may be added to achieve specific requirements, such as improved soundproofing or increased height for plumbing or electrical installations.