I’m removing carpet and installing pre-finished Lyptus. I’m using “Hardwood Floors” “Laying, sanding and finishing” by Don Bollinger as a reference and doing searches here for info. In the book he removes 3/8″ particle board over “car decking” and from what I’ve read here, PB in not good enough for flooring. I have 1/2″ PB so I’m removing it. In the book he lays the strip flooring over the 2×6 deck but sands it first, which makes sense since the flooring is going to install directly over it. I will be puting down 1/2″ CDX plywood over the decking, should I sand the decking first? I’m inclined to sand first. Start with the best base possible to get the best results, but is that overkill or a good idea?
I’m not a pro but I do a bit of woodworking/furniture making so sometimes it’s hard for me to decide what’s needed and what’s overkill for a construction type project.
Thanks in advance,
Mousejockey
Replies
If the plywood gives you flat floor, no sanding of the decking is needed. I would go with 5/8 CDX and make sure there is no movement otherwise you will have squeeks later.
Thanks for the response, I was hoping not to have to sand.
mousejockeyOver the Hill? What Hill? I didn't see any Hill!
Don't forget the slip surface, 15# felt is good, some like red rosin paper. It reduces squeeks. Rosin paper will eventually turn to dust, tar paper can accelerate a fire.
I don't think you need to sand the subfloor either, but make sure you have as flat a floor as possible. Make sure the joints in subfloor are tight and don't peak and be sure the thickness of the subfloor is rigid enough. If I could do my house over, I would double up my subfloor.