The subflooring of your home is an essential component of your house's structural integrity. It is the
layer of material that sits directly on top of the joists and supports the flooring above it. If there are issues with the subflooring, it can lead to a variety of problems, including sagging floors, squeaking, and even structural damage.
In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify subflooring issues in your home.
1. Check for Uneven Floor
One of the most obvious signs of subflooring issues is uneven floors. If you notice that your floors are sloping or sagging in certain areas, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the subflooring. You can check for uneven floors by placing a level on the floor in different areas of your home. If the level shows that the floor is not level, it could be a sign of subflooring issues.
2. Look for gaps between the floorboards
Another sign of subflooring issues is gaps between the floorboards. If you notice gaps between the floorboards, it could be a sign that the subflooring is not providing adequate support. You can check for gaps by inspecting the floorboards in different areas of your home. If you notice gaps, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
3. Listen for Squeaking Floors
Squeaking floors are another sign of subflooring issues. If you notice that your floors are squeaking when you walk on them, it could be a sign that the subflooring is not providing adequate support. Squeaking floors can be caused by a variety of issues, including loose floorboards and gaps in the subflooring. If you notice squeaking floors, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
4. Inspect for Water Damage
Water damage can also lead to subflooring issues. If you notice water stains on your floors or walls, it could be a sign that there is water damage in your home. Water damage can weaken the subflooring and lead to structural damage. If you notice water damage, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
5. Check for Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can also be a sign of subflooring issues. If you notice mold or mildew in your home, it could be a sign that there is moisture in your subflooring. Moisture can weaken the subflooring and lead to structural damage. If you notice mold or mildew, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
6. Inspect the Crawl Space If your home has a crawl space, it is important to inspect it for subflooring issues. You can inspect the crawl space by crawling under your home and inspecting the subflooring. Look for signs of water damage, mold, and mildew. You should also check for any signs of pests, such as termites, that can damage the subflooring.
In conclusion, subflooring issues can lead to a variety of problems in your home, including sagging floors, squeaking, and even structural damage. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage. You should also consider hiring a professional to inspect your subflooring if you suspect there is an issue. By identifying and addressing subflooring issues early, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure the structural integrity of your home.
Do you live in Southern New Hampshire or Greater Boston and need help with potential subflooring issues? If so, we offer free walkthroughs to assess damage and create a game plan to resolve those issues immediately! Click "Get Started" to schedule an appointment with one of our flooring professionals!