Should I Replace My Water-Damaged Subfloor?

What is Subflooring?

First, let’s establish what subflooring is. Subflooring is the structural element supporting the flooring. Subflooring is generally made of softwood or plywood sheets and spans the skeletal structure of most buildings. These sheets of subflooring are usually 4 feet wide and up to 12 feet in length.

Does Water Damage Reach Subflooring?

In most cases, water damage will not cause enough damage to the subflooring to warrant a subflooring replacement. However, extensive water damage or extended periods of exposure to water damage can destroy the structural integrity of subflooring. Mold and mildew as well as pest infestations or fire damage can also necessitate a subflooring replacement.

How to Tell if Your Subflooring is Damaged

Sadly, damage to the subflooring is not going to be obvious. In fact, detecting and assessing the damage is near impossible without sophisticated tools and technology or tearing out the flooring to look underneath. Still, there are some tell-tale signs of trouble that you can look out for:

• Creaking and Squeaking: If certain spots of your flooring produce exceptionally loud squeaking or creaking sounds, it could be a sign that sections of the subflooring are beginning to warp.
• Sinking Floors: Low spots in the flooring can indicate misaligned floor joints, but it can also be a sign that the subflooring has experienced extensive water damage.
• Loose Tiles: Tiles are used in rooms vulnerable to high moisture. Sinking or curling subfloors in the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room can cause tiles to become suddenly loosened or cracked.

Replacing Subflooring

As we mentioned earlier, subflooring is usually made up of sheets of softwood or plywood. These sheets are usually about 4 feet wide and up to 12 feet long. This modular is great because it means you don’t have to replace ALL of the subflooring. Only the sheets that are overly damaged will have to be replaced. Lightly damaged subflooring sheets can be salvaged with methods like rapid structural drying.

If you suspect your subflooring has experienced severe damage, then you will have to remove the carpeting or flooring to access the subflooring. Hiring a professional can save you time and money. The professionals at Tidal Wave Restoration, for instance, use sophisticated tools and technology to identify and locate damaged areas. Our experts are also trained and equipped to handle subflooring replacements or subflooring repairs quickly and affordably.

Call Tidal Wave Restoration to speak with a friendly representative at any time of the day. Don’t forget to explore our website to find applicable discounts and coupons.