Plywood is a popular material used in many different projects. It creates a solid surface on floor joists and serves as a base for any flooring you plan to place on top of it. If you use the wrong material for your subfloor, your tiles may crack and have poor durability. Therefore, choosing the best subfloor plywood is important. In particular, laminate flooring has many outstanding advantages, suitable for many spaces with different styles. To better understand this issue, let’s find out with VINAWOOD the best plywood for subfloor.
> Read more: 1/8 inch plywood, 15/32 plywood, 19/32 plywood, 5x10 plywood
What is Subfloor?
Before learning about plywood subfloor thickness, you need to understand about subfloor. Investing in flooring renovation can significantly boost your home’s value. To do it right, understanding the layers beneath the surface is essential. Flooring isn’t just the visible layer but comprises several important sublayers.
Underlayment
Directly beneath the top layer (carpet, vinyl, tile, hardwood flooring) is the plywood underlayment, typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This layer offers stability and comfort, often made from foam padding but sometimes wood or cement.
Subflooring
The subfloor, located under the underlayment, is critical for overall flooring stability. It attaches to the baseboard joists, forming the structural base. Common materials include plywood, particleboard, or OSB (oriented strand board) subfloor thickness, which consists of compressed wood flakes bound with adhesive, popular since the 1960s.
Subflooring not only provides structure but also acts as a barrier against moisture and air infiltration. It’s usually coated with resin to resist rot and corrosion. Without this protection, subflooring can warp from moisture, leading to squeaky or unstable floors.
> Read more: Top 9 Advantages of MDO Form Plywood
What type of plywood is best for a subfloor?
What kind of plywood do you use for a subfloor? What kind of plywood for subfloor? When selecting the best plywood fobest plywood for subfloorr subfloor, several factors need to be considered, including strength, durability, moisture resistance, and cost. The best plywood for subfloor play a critical role in providing a stable base for the final flooring and must be capable of supporting the weight and movement of people and furniture.
- Thickness and Grade: The standard subfloor thickness is 3/4 inch. This thickness provides sufficient strength and rigidity to prevent sagging between floor joists. The grade of plywood is also crucial. For subfloors, CDX plywood is often recommended. The “C” and “D” grades refer to the front and back faces of the plywood, respectively, with “X” indicating that the plywood is intended for exterior use and has some moisture resistance. Although CDX plywood is not waterproof, it can withstand occasional exposure to moisture, making it suitable for subflooring.
- Tongue and Groove: Another feature to look for in plywood for subfloors is tongue and groove edges. Tongue and groove plywood has interlocking edges that fit together, providing additional stability and preventing movement between panels. This design helps to distribute loads more evenly across the subfloor, reducing the risk of squeaks and deflection.
- Exposure Rating: The exposure rating of the plywood is another important factor. Plywood marked as “Exposure 1” is designed to withstand some moisture during the construction process but is not meant for prolonged exposure to wet conditions. This type of plywood is suitable for subfloors in residential construction, where it will be covered by finish flooring relatively quickly.
- Moisture Resistance: For areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or basements, it is crucial to use plywood with higher moisture resistance. Marine-grade plywood or pressure-treated plywood can be excellent choices in these scenarios. Marine-grade plywood is made with waterproof glue and higher-quality veneers, which prevent delamination and offer superior durability in wet conditions. Pressure-treated plywood has been chemically treated to resist decay and insect damage, adding an extra layer of protection in damp environments.
- Structural Plywood: Another viable option is structural plywood, which is specifically engineered for load-bearing applications. Structural plywood typically meets stricter performance standards, ensuring that it provides the necessary support and longevity for subfloor applications.
- Cost Considerations: While higher-grade plywood with superior moisture resistance and structural integrity tends to be more expensive, it is essential to balance cost with performance needs. Investing in higher-quality plywood for subfloors can prevent costly repairs and replacements in the long run by ensuring a stable and durable foundation for the final flooring.
> Read more: plywood sizes, 4×8 plywood, 1/4 plywood
Alternative Subflooring Materials and Options
Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
OSB, also known as chipboard, is a sheet board made from large wood flakes glued together to create a solid surface. Unlike plywood, OSB is heavier, stronger, and more affordable, but it tends to swell more when exposed to moisture.
Cost: $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot
Best for: Budget-conscious projects that do not require the solid nature of plywood.
Pros:
- Lower cost
- Easy installation
- Stronger than comparable thicknesses of plywood
- Consists of up to 50 layers of wood chips adhered together for a more solid, uniform board
- Available in tongue-and-groove boards and oversized panels
- More environmentally friendly, as it is made from leftover wood material and smaller diameter trees
Cons:
- More flexible, less strong, and less moisture-resistant than plywood
- Unfinished edges that swell when exposed to water and do not revert to original shape
- Does not hold fasteners and screws as well as plywood of the same thickness
- May off-gas more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) due to added glues
- Harder to find at home improvement stores and more commonly available at building supply stores
Concrete
Concrete slabs are common in basements and single-story homes without basements, serving as a type of subflooring. Tile or stone flooring can be installed directly on concrete, but carpet or wood flooring requires an underlayment or moisture barrier, as concrete wicks moisture from the ground.
Cost: $6 to $8 per square foot
Best for: Garages, basements, single-story homes on concrete slabs, under waterproof flooring.
Pros:
- Provides a solid, durable, and smooth surface for tile and stone installation
- Does not emit harmful VOCs
- Inhibits mold, mildew, and odors
- Affordable
- Long-lasting and can be finished as a durable flooring option
Cons:
- Conducts cold from the ground underneath
- Not waterproof or impervious to water vapor wicking up from the ground
- Most flooring types installed over concrete require an underlayment or moisture barrier
- Not recommended as a base for hardwood flooring, even with a moisture barrier
- Expensive to repair or replace
These subflooring options each offer unique advantages and drawbacks, making them suitable for different applications based on specific project requirements and budget constraints.
> Get more details: pine plywood, ac plywood, bamboo plywood, bendable plywood,poplar plywood
What thickness of plywood should you use for a subfloor?
How thick should subfloor be? What is thickness of plywood for subfloor? For traditional plywood flooring installations, where the plywood is directly attached to the subfloor, the recommended plywood flooring thickness typically ranges from 5/8-inch (15mm) to 3/4-inch (19mm). While 3/4-inch plywood is standard for most residential subfloors, certain conditions may require thicker plywood. Factors such as joist spacing, type of finished flooring, local building codes, load-bearing requirements, and sound insulation should all be considered when determining the appropriate thickness. Using the correct plywood thickness not only supports the structural integrity of the subfloor but also enhances the overall performance and longevity of the flooring system.
> Discover more: furniture grade plywood, shuttering plywood, concrete forming plywood
Factors influencing subfloor thickness
What size plywood for subfloor? The minimum plywood thickness for subfloor is approximately 5/8 inch. Because OSB does not hold fasteners as effectively as plywood, it needs to be slightly thicker, with a minimum ply thickness for flooring of 23/32 inch.
Several factors influence optimal sub floor thickness, especially for insulation:
Joist Spacing
Flooring joist spacing affects subfloor plywood thickness. Closer joists (16 inches apart) can use thinner subfloors (1/2 inch), but wider spacing in older homes may require thicker materials (7/8 inch plywood or 1 inch OSB). Proper thickness of subfloor ensures floor stability and comfort.
> Discover more: burnt plywood floor, plywood edge banding, plywood garage walls, plywood kitchen cabinets
Vertical Space
Subfloor thickness must consider R-value, the measure of insulation. OSB has a higher R-value (1.4 per inch) than plywood (1.1 per inch), offering better insulation. In limited vertical spaces, a higher R-value material is essential to maintain adequate insulation.
> Explore further: hdo vs mdo plywood, tongue and groove plywood, walnut plywood, white oak plywood
Underlayment
Underlayment can enhance insulation. High R-value underlayment allows for thinner subflooring, while comfort-focused underlayment might need thicker, more insulating subflooring. Balancing these factors ensures optimal flooring performance.
> Learn more:
Is CDX or OSB better for subflooring?
Should I use OSB or plywood for subfloor? When choosing between CDX plywood and OSB (Oriented Strand Board) for subflooring, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your project. CDX plywood is often preferred due to its superior durability and moisture resistance. Made from layers of wood veneer, CDX offers excellent strength and a stable base, thanks to its cross-laminated structure and the “X” denotes its capability to handle some moisture exposure, although it is not fully waterproof. CDX is also lighter and easier to handle, making installation simpler.
On the other hand, OSB is generally more cost-effective and provides consistent performance with fewer voids due to its manufacturing process. However, OSB is more susceptible to moisture damage, especially at the edges. In conclusion, CDX plywood is typically the better choice for its durability and moisture resistance, while OSB is a budget-friendly option suitable for dry conditions. The decision depends on budget, environmental exposure, and specific project requirements.
> Explore further: MDF vs Plywood, Particle Board vs Plywood, OSB and Plywood, plywood ceiling
Is plywood or OSB better for a subfloor?
When comparing plywood and OSB (Oriented Strand Board) for subflooring, plywood is often considered the better option due to its superior strength, stability, and moisture resistance. Plywood, made from layers of wood veneer, resists warping and swelling over time and can handle occasional wet conditions, making it suitable for areas with potential moisture exposure.
Additionally, plywood is lighter and easier to cut and install. However, OSB is a cost-effective alternative, offering uniformity and consistency with fewer voids and gaps, though it is more susceptible to moisture damage, especially at the edges. The best choice depends on the specific environmental conditions and budget considerations of your project.
> Learn more: types of wood, Types Of Plywood, birch plywood, HDO plywood
Is 1/2 inch plywood strong enough for subfloor?
Is 1/2 inch plywood good for subfloor? Using 1/2 plywood for a subfloor is generally not recommended. This thickness lacks the necessary strength and rigidity to properly support the weight of people, furniture, and appliances. It is more prone to flexing and sagging, especially between floor joists, which can lead to an unstable and squeaky floor. For adequate support and durability, 3/4 inch plywood is typically recommended. This thicker plywood provides the necessary stability and longevity, ensuring a solid foundation for your flooring system. 3/4 inch plywood is best plywood for subfloor
Should I use 5'8" or 3/4" plywood for subfloor?
For subflooring, 3/4-inch plywood is generally the better choice compared to 5/8 plywood. While the minimum thickness for subflooring is 5/8 inch, using 3/4-inch plywood provides greater strength, better support for fasteners, and reduces the risk of flexing or sagging, especially for higher load areas. It’s often preferred for improved durability and long-term stability.
Should I use tongue and groove plywood for subfloor?
Using tongue and groove plywood for a subfloor is highly recommended. The interlocking edges of tongue and groove plywood provide a tighter and more secure fit between panels, reducing movement and gaps. This design enhances the overall stability and strength of the subfloor, minimizing the risk of squeaks and deflection. Additionally, the seamless connection helps to evenly distribute loads across the floor, ensuring a solid and durable foundation for the finished flooring. Therefore, tongue and groove plywood is best plywood for subfloor
How to Choose the Best Plywood for Your Job
Selecting the right plywood for your subflooring needs involves considering several key factors. If you need assistance, consult a local flooring company.
Factors to Consider:
-
Location:
- Consider where the plywood will be installed.
- Assess how the space is used, including the likelihood of moisture exposure and the spacing between floor joists.
- Evaluate the expected traffic in the area to determine the appropriate type and thickness of plywood.
-
Flooring Type:
- The type of flooring you plan to install affects your plywood choice.
- What is the strongest subfloor material? Flexible materials like carpet and linoleum can handle slight subfloor flex.
- Rigid materials such as tile, stone, and grouted floors require a solid, stable subfloor to prevent cracking and chipping.
-
Budget:
- Plywood is an affordable material, but costs can add up quickly, especially for large areas.
- If budget constraints are a concern, consider alternatives like OSB, which can be more cost-effective without compromising suitability for your project.
-
Certification:
- Look for certified plywood to ensure better quality.
- ISI certification denotes high quality.
- For environmentally sustainable options, choose plywood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
-
Pest-Proof:
- In areas prone to termites or wood borers, select plywood brands that offer pest-resistant guarantees.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose the best plywood for your subflooring project, ensuring durability, stability, and cost-effectiveness.
Should I Use Treated Plywood for Subflooring?
Using treated plywood for subflooring is generally unnecessary since the wood will be completely covered and hidden from access. Pressure-treated wood does not emit gases or particulates that could harm you and your family, making it safe for use in enclosed spaces. Therefore, standard plywood is usually sufficient for subflooring needs.
The above article has provided information about the best plywood for subfloor that you need to know. VINAWOOD – Leading Vietnam Plywood Supplier & Manufacturer hopes you will choose the best best plywood for subfloor in your project. If you would like more information about types of plywood, please check out our website.
> Get more details:
- How to remove paint from wood
- How to refinish hardwood floors
- What is plywood made of
- How to Finish Plywood
VINAWOOD – Vietnam Plywood Supplier & Manufacturer
