Removing Wood Sub Floors
Filed Under Removing Wood Sub Floors, Wood Sub Floors
Unfortunately, from time to time it becomes necessary to replace a portion or all of the old wood sub floors in a home. The method for removing these wood sub floors depends on the type of material used. No matter, however, what type of wood sub floor you are removing; it will require the tedious use of some very dangerous power tools. Please take all necessary precautions and preparations for your safety.
Before you begin removing the wood sub floor you must remove the finished flooring from the surface first. All base molding must be removed carefully by applying gentle pressure to the area where the nails are only. Hardwood flooring can be removed and saved and relayed later if desired. Carpet can simply be released from the tack strip and pulled back to expose the wood sub floor or, if glued down, simply pulled loose from the glue and layed back out of the way. For tile or vinyl flooring situations, the flooring must be removed and cannot feasibly be salvaged.
Before you begin removing the wood sub floors you must know the orientation of the floor joists so you may cut between them. Once you know the location and orientation of the floor joists, simply use your circular saw to make relief cuts in the wood sub floor material between the joists so you can begin prying the material loose.
After you have made the necessary cuts in the wood sub floor area you will be replacing, use a flat pry bar to begin lifting the material from the joists. If the wood sub floor being replaced is dimensional plank lumber you will need to also make cuts at the perimeter of the repair area along floor joists. You will then need to nail blocks to the joists for the replacement wood sub flooring to rest on. If the original material is particle board or plywood you should replace the entire sheet if at all possible or at least to one edge. If you must only replace a partial sheet use the same method of blocking on the floor joists to support the replacement wood sub floor.
Be certain to use plenty of adhesive between the floor joist and wood sub floor as well as along all edges to eliminate squeaking and movement. You should also attach the replacement wood sub floor with deck screws spaced every six inches.
Replacing a wood sub floor is not too difficult a process to complete yourself, just take the time to prepare yourself and become familiar with the process and all the necessary tool as well as the required safety procedures.
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