When you want to install hard surface flooring, luxury vinyl planks, or engineered wood, floor preparation is essential to achieving a beautiful and long-lasting result. To provide an accurate estimate of the necessary preparation, the existing floor must be removed. Hidden problems can arise, such as asbestos, termite damage, uneven concrete, or additional layers of underlayment that could delay the installation of the project.
Common Challenges of Older Homes
Many older homes, usually those with upper floors, often have uneven floors. The most typical problem we encounter is this unevenness. A quality installation requires that the subfloor be flat, not perfectly level.
When Floor Preparation Is Necessary
If you are replacing a floating floor with another floating option or a hard surface, and if the previous installation was done correctly, you may not need any additional floor preparation. However, if we are doing a demolition on a hard surface, there is a chance that some prior floor preparation will arise, which will require more work.
The Role of Floor Float in Quality Installations
Using a floor float is essential for a quality installation and maintaining the manufacturer’s product warranty. Companies that include floor preparation in their initial bid may face problems later on, as their installers may have less incentive to use proper preparation materials, leading to calls for repairs down the road. In rare cases, if your floors are excessively uneven you’ll likely need the help of a carpenter or concrete specialist to resolve major issues that may prevent installation.
Why It’s Important to Have A Flat Subfloor
A flat, smooth subfloor is critical to the performance of hard surface flooring. If the subfloor has bumps, dips or uneven areas, it can cause the locking mechanisms of the laminate or LVP to fail, leading to gaps, squeaks or even damage over time. A level subfloor ensures that the floor panels fit together seamlessly, preventing movement and buckling, which can drastically affect the longevity of your new floor.
In conclusion, investing in a floating mastic for floors during the installation of your floor not only improves durability and visual appeal, but also ensures optimal performance. It eliminates common problems caused by subfloor irregularities, paving the way for an easier installation and a durable final product.
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