Subfloors within homes can become damaged for several reasons. It’s important for homeowners to understand what flooring solutions they need, so they know how to go about the floor restoration work.
Since subfloor defects are a common issue in Perth, we’ve compiled useful information to help people understand differentt floor problems and their solutions.
What is a subfloor?
The subfloor is the foundational part of a floor. Attached to joists and bearers, it rests underneath the final and finished layer of the floor that can be either hardwood, carpeting or tiles. The purpose of the subfloor is to provide a sturdy and level surface to the finished flooring as well as protect it from moisture damage.
How does a subfloor become defective?
The common reasons are as follows:
Age of subfloor- Over time a subfloor experiences continuous wear and tear which causes it to become uneven.
House foundation problems- The foundation of a home gradually weakens and sinks into the ground, which disturbs the levelling of subfloors.
Damaged floor joists and bearers- Water and pest damage can weaken the joists so that they cannot support the subfloor above, resulting in a sinking subfloor.
Incorrect installation technique- When subfloor is poorly installed, there is insufficient subfloor ventilation and ground clearance. This exposes the subfloor to excessive moisture, leading to its deterioration.