How do you subfloor over concrete?

To install a floated subfloor system, first place a layer of plywood subfloor panels with the edges parallel to the wall. Use a ¾” spacer between the plywood and the wall and a 1/8” spacer between panels. Next, lay a second layer of plywood at a 45-degree angle to the first layer.

What goes between concrete slab and flooring?

Two recommended methods are a 3/4-inch “plywood-on-slab” and a “floating plywood” system. Plywood-on-slab. Place a 6-mil polyethylene vapor retarder directly over the concrete. Lay 3/4-inch plywood sheets opposite to the direction of the finish flooring, leaving a 1/4-inch gap between panels to eliminate squeaking.

What goes on top of the sub floor?

Underlayment: Some types of flooring can be installed directly on top of the subfloor, such as vinyl flooring. Other types need a middle layer, called underlayment, such as laminate,carpet and tile.

Do I need a subfloor over concrete?

A subfloor will help insulate against a concrete floor that becomes overly cold in winter. The concrete slab must be clean, sound, and level, with any serious cracking repaired, before you install your subfloor. — Always check your local building code before choosing a particular subflooring material or design.

Do you need subfloor over concrete?

Do I Need a Subfloor Over a Concrete Slab? While a subfloor is not necessary to add structural strength when you’ll be laying finish flooring on top of a concrete slab (as in a basement remodel), subflooring over concrete offers two other advantages: Dampness control.

What goes on top of concrete slab?

Like other flooring materials that work well over concrete slabs, laminate uses layers to fight moisture. This makes it a reliable option to install over your concrete slab. If you plan to transform your basement into a high traffic area for entertaining and relaxing, laminate could be a great option.

What are the parts of a subfloor?

Subfloor – the structurally sound layer, usually plywood. Underlayment – this is used to smooth out the subfloor with a thin layer of plywood, cement fiberboard or cement board providing a flat level surface. Finished floor – your decorative top layer flooring such as hardwood, tile or laminate.

What do you put over a concrete floor?

Best Flooring for Concrete Slab Foundation

  1. Engineered Wood. Natural hardwood flooring offers undeniable beauty and durability.
  2. Vinyl. As a longstanding choice for kitchens and bathrooms, vinyl has a reputation for extreme water resistance.
  3. Laminate.
  4. Carpet.
  5. Tile.

Do slab houses have subfloors?

The subfloor is the bottom-most layer and it rests on the joists. If you have a concrete slab floor, the slab may be considered the subfloor.

Can you put plywood directly on concrete floor?

Plywood can easily adhere to concrete. Plywood is often used as a sub-flooring. It can be installed on top of concrete before hardwood flooring or another type of material is installed. One way to attach plywood to a concrete surface is to screw it into place with concrete fasteners.