Flooring Starts from the Ground Up: Understanding Subfloors and Why Th

By Factory Flooring Liquidators

When it comes to choosing new flooring, most homeowners focus on the surface—style, color, durability. But what lies beneath your floors is just as important. Enter the subfloor: the unsung hero of any successful flooring installation.

At Factory Flooring Liquidators, we’ve seen it all—from flawless installs to flooring fails caused by neglected subfloor prep. That’s why we’re breaking it down for you in this complete guide to subfloors and their critical role in your home’s flooring system.

🧱 What Is a Subfloor, Exactly?

A subfloor is the structural layer that lies directly beneath your finished floor (like hardwood, vinyl, or carpet) and sits above the joists or concrete foundation. It’s what your flooring is actually installed on—and it plays a key role in providing stability, strength, and support.

Think of it as the foundation of your foundation.

🔍 Common Types of Subfloors

Here are the most common subfloor materials you’ll find in homes today:

1. Plywood Subfloor

Made from layers of wood veneer.
Strong, reliable, and commonly used in residential construction.
Works well with hardwood, laminate, and carpet.

2. OSB (Oriented Strand Board)

A budget-friendly alternative to plywood.
Widely used in new builds.
Compatible with most flooring types but may swell with moisture exposure.

3. Concrete Slab

Often found in basements and slab-on-grade homes.
Very durable and moisture-resistant.
Ideal for vinyl, tile, or engineered hardwood.

4. Wood Plank Subfloors

Common in older homes.
Can be uneven or squeaky if aged.
May require leveling or additional underlayment before installing new floors.

🛠️ Why the Subfloor Matters

Your flooring is only as good as what’s underneath. A poorly prepared or damaged subfloor can lead to:

Buckling or warping of floors
Cracks in tile or grout
Uneven surfaces
Noisy creaks and squeaks
Shortened flooring lifespan

That’s why proper subfloor inspection and preparation are critical before laying new floors.

🧰 Do You Need to Replace or Repair Your Subfloor?

Here’s what to watch for:

🚫 Soft spots or sagging: This could mean water damage or rot.
🔊 Excessive squeaking: May indicate loose subfloor panels or shifting.
🧱 Cracks or gaps: Especially in concrete, this can affect stability and even cause flooring to shift.

At Factory Flooring Liquidators, we always recommend a thorough subfloor inspection before any flooring project. If needed, we can help you with repairs or connect you with trusted installers.

🔄 Subfloor Prep: What Happens Before Flooring Goes In?

Proper subfloor prep typically includes:

Cleaning and leveling
Securing loose boards or panels
Patching holes or cracks
Installing underlayment (when needed for moisture, sound, or cushioning)

Every flooring type has its own subfloor requirements—tile needs a perfectly level surface, laminate needs underlayment, and vinyl requires smoothness for best appearance.

✅ Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Subfloor

Your subfloor is the backbone of your flooring investment. It may not be visible, but it plays a major role in how your finished floors perform, feel, and last.

At Factory Flooring Liquidators, we don’t just sell you beautiful flooring—we make sure it’s installed right from the ground up. Our team is here to answer questions, offer expert advice, and help you choose the best flooring (and subfloor solutions) for your home.

📍 Ready to Floor with Confidence?

Visit Factory Flooring Liquidators today:
🏬 In-store or online – your perfect floor starts here.
📞 Contact us for expert help and installation support.

👉 https://www.factoryflooringliquidators.com/