Can You Install a Subfloor Over Concrete?

Can You Install a Subfloor Over Concrete?

Concrete is the most popular choice of material for flooring and has many advantages. But, with so many pros, there are also a considerable number of cons that make the owners worry about the foundation. However, there is nothing to be concerned about because there are different options available to install over concrete for better protection. When the concrete starts deteriorating, the first option that customers and contractors think about is what should be a better option. The famous choice is adding a subfloor over the concrete. Subfloors are known to enhance the floor by making them esthetic and comfortable. Before you decide, it is essential to know about subflooring. In this article, we will discuss questions like can you install a subfloor over concrete?

Meaning of a Subfloor

Subfloors are extra layers laid down structurally before the actual flooring is completed. These subfloors are installed for many reasons- to protect the flooring from getting damaged, and they can be applied on every type of foundation. Since it is not impossible to change flooring due to circumstances, choosing subfloors is an easy and affordable option to protect the flooring.

What Subfloors Can Be Used for Concrete?

Many subfloors can be installed over a foundation of concrete. Four different subfloors are most used by people and even construction contractors, which answers the question- can you install a subfloor over concrete? – with a yes. Have a look at them and pick your choice.

1. Dry Lay Subfloors: Dry lay subfloors have interlocking panels, which means they do not need any adhesives to install. This type of subfloor is mostly chosen due to it being layered for protection from dampness.

2. DriCore Subfloors: DiCore subfloors are an outstanding alternative if your concrete can not resist moisture. They come with layers of two different materials. The top layer is the Oriented Strand Board (OSB), and the bottom layer is made of polyethylene.

3. Plywood Subfloors: There are two kinds of plywood subfloors: raised and adhered. Raised plywood leaves a space for air circulation, and the adhered plywood is placed over concrete using tools.

4. Oriented Strand Board (OSB): OSB is the sturdiest subfloor option. They are designed from compressed wood strands that get arranged in a unique intersection pattern with a smooth surface.

Reasons Behind Placing Subfloors Over Concrete

While concrete rarely has any consequences, there are times when it can happen, and when that occurs, the only option is to add subfloors to it. One disadvantage of concrete is that it needs to be sealed properly, or else the moisture will find its way inside, damaging the surface. Subfloors are installed over them that act as a protection layer to prevent the concrete from deteriorating.

A home is comfortable when it is warm, and concrete is a material that blocks the heat unless it gets layered with subfloors. A subfloor installed over concrete keeps the place warm and cozy. Concrete can make the floor bumpy or uneven when setting different types of flooring, leading to poor presentation and low durability. That is what subfloors fix; they add elegance to the flooring and make it have high longevity rates. If the concrete is not giving its services, do not hesitate or wait to get subfloors. Ignoring the signs can lead to costly repairs. Therefore, do not ask the question can you install a subfloor over concrete repeatedly and have it placed to improve the comfort and quality of your floor.

Is Subflooring Cost-Effective?

Subflooring is a superior chance to improve the flooring, which also gives an elegant touch-up to the interior; the prices depend on the type of subfloor. The factors affecting the pricing include the type of subfloor and how they are installed. For example, the installation process of the dry lay subfloor includes making it water-resistant and underlayment of foam, positing the panels, and securing the perimeters. The cost will depend on the materials used and the dimensions of the concrete ground.

Additionally, if you assign professionals for help, it will affect the price, and if you do it yourself, that will have its own cost. However, installing subfloor layers over concrete will be cost-effective. What is more profitable is that they are done once, so you do not have to change the entire flooring, making it a long-term investment.

Why You Should Get Subfloors Over Concrete

Subfloor over concrete offers many benefits. Flooring needs to be comfortable, too, and concrete alone cannot provide that. Subfloors deliver comfort to the place with their cushioning, making the floor comfortable to walk and sit on. If concrete is not covered with subfloors, there can be privacy issues as your conversion could be heard by other people, especially in residential settings. Installation of a subfloor will block conversation and disturbing noises with its high-quality soundproofing abilities.

The most vital benefit of adding a subfloor is to prevent moisture from creating mold. Concrete is permeable, but subfloors are non-porous, which creates a layer of protection that blocks the way for water to reach the flooring.

Can It Protect Different Flooring?

Subfloors are a versatile option that offers a stable ground for all flooring types, from hardwood to tiles. It will protect each flooring with its high-quality services and make your floor gain strength, keeping it alive and new for years. So, are you still considering if you can install a subfloor over concrete?

In closing, the question, can you install a subfloor over concrete, has reached the conclusion that yes, you can install a subfloor over the cement. The signs of your flooring losing its quality should be enough to get subfloors to save a significant cost of getting a new floor. Protect your floor from moisture, add warmth and elegance, and let it keep its freshness unchanged with subfloors with an easy and reasonably priced solution. With all this information, it has become clear that subfloors can be installed over concrete- time to protect the flooring.