A plank subfloor is a type of subflooring made up of individual wooden planks. It is commonly found in older homes and provides a solid foundation for various types of flooring. Plank subfloors are usually made of solid wood and can have spaces between the planks. They may also have undergone previous treatments such as staining or varnishing.
Factors to Consider
Installing laminate flooring over a plank subfloor is possible in many cases, but several factors need to be considered before proceeding:
- Subfloor Condition: Before installing laminate flooring, it is crucial to assess the condition of the plank subfloor. Make sure the planks are secure and free from any signs of rot, warping, or damage. If the subfloor is in poor condition, it is advisable to address these issues before installation to ensure a stable and long-lasting flooring surface.
- Leveling: One major consideration when installing laminate flooring over a plank subfloor is the leveling of the subfloor. Uneven surfaces can cause problems with the installation and affect the durability of the laminate flooring in the long run. If the plank subfloor has significant irregularities, it may be necessary to level it using leveling compound or by adding an underlayment.
- Moisture: Moisture is another important factor to consider when installing laminate flooring. Excessive moisture levels can damage the laminate planks, causing them to warp or bubble. It is essential to ensure that the plank subfloor is dry and adequately sealed to prevent moisture issues. If necessary, use a moisture barrier or underlayment designed to protect against moisture.
- Subfloor Height: Installing laminate flooring over a plank subfloor will add some height to the floor. This increase may affect door clearances, transitions to other rooms, and alignment with existing flooring. It is crucial to measure the height difference and plan accordingly to avoid any potential obstacles or aesthetic inconsistencies.
Installation Process
Once these factors have been considered, here is a general process that can be followed for installing laminate flooring over a plank subfloor:
- Prepare the subfloor by ensuring it is clean, dry, and level. Remove any existing flooring, nails, or debris.
- Install a moisture barrier, if necessary, to protect against moisture issues.
- Lay down an underlayment to provide an additional layer of cushioning, sound reduction, and moisture protection.
- Start laying the laminate flooring planks, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use spacers to maintain an even expansion gap around the perimeter of the room.
- Continue installing the laminate flooring row by row, using a tapping block and mallet to lock the planks together.
- If needed, trim the last row of planks to fit the remaining space, leaving an appropriate expansion gap.
- Install any necessary transition pieces or moldings to create a finished look and cover any gaps.
- Finally, clean the laminate flooring and enjoy your newly installed floor.
Installing laminate flooring over a plank subfloor is possible with the proper preparation and consideration of the factors mentioned above. It is crucial to assess the condition of the subfloor, ensure proper leveling and moisture protection, and account for the height difference. By following the appropriate installation process and manufacturer’s instructions, you can achieve a beautiful and durable laminate floor over a plank subfloor.