How to Repair a Basement Subfloor

A basement subfloor replaces the original floor of the basement by covering it. A normal basement floor is just the concrete that was originally poured. You can install carpet and wood panels directly to the concrete but this is not practical. If there happens to be a burst pipe or the house settles, you will find that the concrete flooring could crack. A basement subfloor is installed on top of the main concrete floor as a way to properly create a main floor. The basement subfloor will also provide a softer surface and one that will adjust with the settling of the home. A basement subfloor can become damaged but they are also easy to repair. The article below will show you how.

Step 1 – Identify the Damage

The most common damage you will find with a basement subfloor is a broken, loose or squeaky section of the floor. This typically means the wood is broken. The screws or nails can also be loose which will cause the boards to be loose. Either of these issues will most likely lead you to replace board sections. Once the damage is found you will need to access the basement subfloor.

Step 2 – Remove the Cover

If the basement subfloor is covered with carpet, linoleum or some sort of tile you will need to remove it. This is usually an easy process. For carpet you will need to cut it with the utility knife and then pull it off of the basement subfloor. It is important to get it all off. This carpet can be replaced once the subfloor has been repaired. Linoleum is removed with a scraper. Score the linoleum and then use the scraper under and push to remove it. Ceramic and natural tile are a little different to contend with. If you plan to change the floor completely then chip and scrape the tile from it. If you want to save the tile you will need to use a tile saw to gut the grout then carefully pry off each tile.

Step 3 – Remove the Damage

The easiest solution to repairing a basement subfloor is to simply remove the damaged area. Look for the screws or nails that hold it to the joists. Once the screws or nails are removed you can pry off the plywood section. Never remove just a damaged section as it will be impossible to replace it. Installing a full or half sheet of plywood is easier than using smaller pieces. It also makes the floor stronger.

Step 4 – Repair the Basement Subfloor

Replacing the damaged section is not at all difficult. Place the new piece of plywood on top of the joists. Nail the piece of plywood down or, if you want a stronger basement subfloor, use screws. Place 1 screw (or nail) every few inches along the joist. Try to get them in the center of the joist for the strongest basement subfloor.