How do you strengthen a weak subfloor?

Apply construction adhesive between all the joints of the existing subfloor. This will help eliminate existing squeaks. Apply construction adhesive to the subfloor as you apply each piece of new plywood. Lay the new pieces perpendicular to the old ones.

What do you fill subfloor cracks in?

Fill Plywood Subfloor Gaps An effective strategy for filling large gaps is to mix patching compound to a stiff, mortar-like consistency, trowel it into the plywood subfloor gaps and wait for it to stiffen before troweling it smooth. Some sanding may be needed when it sets completely.

How do I make my subfloor stronger?

Apply construction adhesive to the subfloor before additional plywood is laid. each joist tightens the layers and reduces the chance of future squeaks. When fastening to joists less than 8 in. tall, drive two rows of 8d nails or 2-in.

What is the best subfloor material?

Plywood
Plywood is considered the most popular material used for subflooring, it has been used since the 1950s and remains one of the top choices for contractors. Standard plywood works perfectly fine as a subflooring material, but the best option is ¾” tongue-and-groove plywood subflooring.

How can I make my floor more stable?

Fix bouncy floors by adding bridging, adding a layer of plywood or adding a wall or beam. We’ll show you three ways to stiffen up your bouncy floor—by adding bridging, installing plywood along the joists and adding a wall or beam under the floor.

Should I caulk gaps in subfloor?

This may be due to a sagging subfloor, which is common in older homes, or even expansion of the structure due to climate conditions. An easy way to remedy this is to fill the gap between the wall and subfloor with caulk. The caulking should be rated for moisture and mildew resistance.

Should subfloor have gaps?

To avoid buckling, subfloor panels should be spaced with a 1/8-inch gap at all edges and ends to provide room for naturally occurring expansion. Tongue-and-groove edges on many premium floor panels, such as Weyerhaeuser’s Edge Gold® OSB panels, are designed to self-gap.

Do I need to replace water damaged subfloor?

“Adequately protected from moisture, most subfloor materials can be expected to last for the lifespan of the home.” However, if the subfloor is consistently exposed to moisture, you may need to replace it after 20 to 30 years or sooner.

Is thicker subfloor better?

For structural purposes, the farther apart the joists are, the greater thickness of subflooring required. For instance, if the joists are 16 inches or less apart, a 1/2 inch of subflooring may be enough. In older homes, where the joists may be farther apart, you will need thicker subflooring for stability.