Choosing the Right Flooring
Flooring failures — gapping, squeaking, cupping, cracking — are most often caused by inadequate subfloor preparation rather than product defects. A properly prepared subfloor is the foundation of any successful flooring installation.
Flatness is the first requirement. Most flooring manufacturers specify maximum subfloor variation: typically no more than 3mm over 1.8 metres. Variations beyond this cause hollow spots, cracking at joints, and click-lock separation.
Installation and Timeline
Checking flatness with a long straight-edge before installation identifies high spots and low spots. Grinding high spots and filling low spots with self-leveling compound brings the subfloor into spec before flooring is installed.
Moisture testing is critical for wood, engineered, and laminate products. Concrete substrates must be tested for moisture emission rate; wood subfloors must be tested for moisture content. Both must fall within the flooring manufacturer's specified range.
Care and Maintenance
Structural integrity verification ensures the subfloor can support the flooring and its intended use. Squeaking subfloors — caused by loose sheets or sagging joists — should be identified and corrected before flooring is installed.
Fastening existing subfloor panels eliminates squeaks from movement at panel joints. Screwing through existing OSB or plywood into joists at 20cm intervals eliminates the movement that creates squeaks.
Cleaning the subfloor thoroughly before installation removes adhesive residue, paint, and debris that prevent good adhesion or flatness. A clean, dry, flat, structurally sound subfloor is the non-negotiable starting condition for every flooring installation.