Screwing plywood to subfloor. Reactions: DenverCountryBoy, Seven-Delta-FortyOne and rrk.
Screwing plywood to subfloor Your back will appreciate it!). You don't need to glue underlayment down to a flooring plywood subfloor M. Leave an expansion gap of at least 1/8 inch between the plywood sheets and a 3/4-inch gap around the perimeter of the room to avoid buckling. Two Common Building Methods: The transcript highlights two common methods of building houses – slab on grade and crawl space. For How many screws do I need for subfloor? The 3/4-inch-thick subfloor takes a 2-inch screw. We welcome posts about "new tool day", estate sale/car boot sale finds, "what is this" tool, advice about the best tool for a job, homemade tools, 3D printed accessories, toolbox/shop tours. He insisted on gluing and he was right - the Preferably a 2-in screw would be ideal, however an inch and a half would work I would just increase the amount of screws per run. 1: is what're you using to drive the screws? If the answer is "not an impact driver" you're going to have a bad time. With a typical combined plywood thickness of 1-1⁄4 in. Do Lay the plywood on the subfloor with screws 18 inches apart. A tape measure (Remember to Remove the particleboard and screw the plywood to the floor joists with 1-5/8 in. 2" o/c). Several screws with different types of width are present. Which is more economical? Choosing the Best Screws for Plywood projects can be the deciding factor in your project being a success or failure. This will provide a sturdy foundation for the subfloor. , use at least 1-1⁄2 in. tongue-and-groove plywood or OSB (oriented strand board). Improper spacing. The two methods have one thing in common - the head of the fastener once installed is flush with the surface of the subfloor. To add an extra layer of plywood over a subfloor, you will need to clean the floor to ensure there is no dirt and grime. When it comes to subfloors, it is generally recommended to use screws instead of nails. Squeaks happen mostly when a nail or screw just runs down beside a joist. Ideally, a I am going to install hardwood floors in my living room and dinning room, but to match the height of the tile in the kitchen, I will need to lay 1/4" plywood sheets to the existing When installing subflooring, it is important to ensure that it is properly secured to prevent creaking, movement, or other issues. Yes, deck screws are good to use on the subfloor. Impact driver instead of that insane cordless drill I have. Fastening Subfloor. Here are the basic steps: Screws are better for a quality subfloor job than nails. Hammering nails will destroy the soft plywood or OSB. Fixing plywood subfloor to concrete slab. Preparing the Subfloor Plywood Underlayment should be installed only on a dry subfloor. These numbers indicate the diameter or thickness of the screw. Use construction adhesive to secure the boards in place, especially around any outlets or other areas where nails won’t do a good job of holding them down. Be sure to Rather than nails, screws are best to use for subfloors — these fasteners are convenient, easy to remove and capable of providing torque that nails lack. Id like to screw a 18mm plywood subfloor in to the concrete so I can use hidden tongue and groove screws for the engineered wood floor. 2x8 stringers (14' span, planning to add/replace a beam at 10') with 3/4 T&G plywood subfloor. Follow asked Apr 19, 2016 at 14:58. The floor was constructed by first sistering new joists to the old ones, nailing and gluing 1x4 stock across the joists about 8-10" apart, then finally nailing and gluing 3/4" plywood on top. I didn't know what screws to use and I found In general, it is recommended to use screws that are 1 ½ to 2 inches long for ¾ inch-thick plywood or OSB subfloors. Re: Subfloor screw down questions Been screwing floors since '91 & have yet to have a call back for squeeks. The best subfloor screws can be chosen among them according to your flooring. No extra layers of underlayment are required. So, screw your sub floor down first and make sure there are no squeaks on the sub floor. Make sure you use underlayment grade plywood So I crossed that bridge 2 years ago. 3/4-in. A plywood subfloor will raise the floor’s height and prevent doors from opening smoothly, so be aware that you may need to make alterations to any doors that open into the room. Keep it short of the walls so there's no chance of rubbing against them. Our floor is a post and beam, T&G 2x6 with a 1/2" particle board sub-floor. So get on with your subfloor installation with confidence! Tips for Installing Subfloor Screws. it is my opinion that a quality floor system doesn't rely on screws to performMike Smith Rhode Island : How to secure a plywood subfloor? Yes, gluing plywood to a subfloor can add strength and reduce the chances of squeaking. the question of screwing subfloors seems to be one of opinion. there are many details you have to get right to avoid failure. Corded QuickDrive or equivelent (w/extension for standing up. The discussed house has a crawl space with a subfloor made of plywood. For plywood subfloors, it’s best to use self-tapping screws. tiling on plywood while ok in the right situations, is not advisable. Wood shrinks as it dries, and if the floor joist was wet when it was installed, a gap will develop between the joist and the subfloor as the joists dry. 200mm apart is fine. joeka101 New Member. Skipping pre-drilling can save you hours of time on a job and help you work smarter, not harder. If you don't take the above into account you won't be pulling the top layer down to the bottom layer; you'll just be If you want a firm grip, you can glue and screw your underlayment provided you don’t have plans to remove or replace it since gluing plywood underlayment fastens it to the subfloor. You just need to find the right type and size of screws. The bedroom already has a 3/4” Subfloor installed. To ensure a successful subfloor installation, always use the proper tools, such as a drill/driver with the This post references the earlier thread New Plywood, Old Particle Board, Gaps, and Vinyl Tile (ceramica): HELP! Without knowing the size of the subfloor or even the underlayment (I’ve been told different answers—either 1/2” and 5/8”—for the plywood underlayment), I’m not sure what size screws to use to further secure the underlayment to the Screws are the best to secure the plywood with, and since a premium glue is used, there only needs to be enough set to draw the plywood to the joists. The allure of using nails in a plywood or OSB installation is quite See more Use subfloor adhesive, and screw 8" at edges, 12" in field. Should I take this opportunity to screw down the subfloor? I hate squeaky floors. Use a heavy-duty drill to drive Phillips head wood screws through the subfloor into the floor joists. screws. Add construction paper or Preparing for Subfloor Replacement. The builder felt it was only necessary to use about 10 or 12 nails for each 4 x 8 sheet of sub floor . How PAMFast Makes the Job Even More Efficient. The 3-inch steel screws are used for plywood subfloors. Newbie Contributor: Joined: Sat Jul 11, 2020 8:29 pm How to Properly Secure Underlayment to Subfloor Without Causing Damage or Dips in the Floor Surface: Tips for Effective Fastening and Avoiding Loss of Streng Hey everyone, So I am about to start a larger subfloor installation with 22mm OSB and 60mm Spax subfloor screws. Moreover, desk screws often cost higher in projects. A thicker subfloor takes a 3-inch screw. Screws can cause the plywood to pucker. I’ve seen recommendations for 6″-8″ spacing around the perimeter, starting 2″ in from panel’s edge. drywall screws spaced every 4 in. To avoid squeaks, use screws (not nails) everywhere for the flooring. Glue is intrinsic to a sound floor. The second level has a 3/4 plywood sub-floor. With a square drive and fine threads, these screws work with most floor screw guns. Always use a moisture bearer, which is usually placed between the subfloor and the finished floor. And here is the proper way to identify what length you need: Here are nine common subfloor installation mistakes and how to prevent them: 1. One key factor in achieving this is screw spacing. No one should use staples for subfloor. Solidify the Subfloor What type of screws should I use for securing a subfloor? I've read anything from ring-shank nails to just regular wood screws. The thickness of the screw is also important. Preparation As fitting a plywood subfloor Whether you're fastening plywood or underlayment, Subfloor Screws provide a hassle-free solution for creating a stable and secure floor base. This process should be done with utmost precision and keep an equal distance from one point to another. Is glueing worth the extra labor? Because of the weight of the 4x8 plywood sheets I hired a handyman / carpenter to work with me. Make sure you predrill the hole through the 1/4 inch plywood, use a bit the same diameter as the outside thread of the screw. Mark the screws' spots It depends on the type of subfloor and the type of fastener. Jump to: Installing Plywood Over a Subfloor: Basic Idea; Best Type of Plywood for Installing Over Hamilton Tile of Woodstock, GA fixes this rotten sub floor in this master bathroom in Marietta, GA and we explain our system for screwing down the plywood su What length of screws should I use to secure the new 5/8” plywood to the old 5/8” plywood? 3. Back. However it's squeaky in places. Here's a guide to help you with the process: Prepare the materials and tools. " It Best Subfloor Screws for Plywood Subfloors. Insulation See all. Make sure any joins between the sheets of ply are supported below, ie. 3in screws into the joists, but also 1-5/8" screws into the subfloor (depending on the thickness of your subfloor) between the joists and at the edges of the plywood where it doesn't align with the joists. Staples are used for underlayment, not a second layer of subfloor (which is what you're installing). Self-tapping screws are designed to drill into the joists and create their own threads for a secure fit. They are available in various For a standard plywood subfloor, the screw should be 3 inches. Nailing is typically used for tongue and groove wood subfloors and thinner plywood overlays and screwing is preferred for thicker plywood overlays, particle board, and composite materials. Machine Screw; Metal Screws; Nuts; Accessories for Screws; This video is about floor repair - how to fix your plywood subfloor squeaks for laminate or hardwood flooring installation. There are also several other assembly So for your 18mm ply, screw length is 18 x 3 = 54mm the newest screw to this is 50mm; that's the size you use. . Some people don’t bother gluing down their plywood underlayment; they rather prefer to screw and nail the panels to the subfloor. Learn more about Great Stuff Construction Adhesive Installing subflooring with screws and preventing squeaks involves several steps. Ryne Everett Ryne Everett. Whether you’re crafting a custom piece of furniture, building cabinetry, or working on a detailed craft project, plywood offers a reliable foundation that can adapt to a wide range of applications. I bought an enormous amount of subfloor glue and used a tube per sheet of new t&g subfloor to try and help bridge any inconsistencies in the old planks. Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2020 5:45 am . However, some screw guns, like the Senco DuraSpin DS440-AC, are auto-fed. Because of their Never use adhesive on the sub-floor to attach the plywood underlayment. For a 23/32 subfloor, one source recommends using 1 1/4-inch In your case, you're fastening over existing subfloor, so you need a screw that will go through the attached panel (3/4") + subfloor (say 1/2") + the thickness of the panel (3/4") = 2" screws. For instance, a 3/4-inch plywood subfloor typically requires screws that are at least 1 1/2 inches long to ensure they penetrate the joists effectively. The 1/2" plywood underlayment is screwed and glued at 8-12" intervals on top of the joists ONLY, meaning that there is actually 19" between the screws (joists are 19. For the 1/2" underlayment, ideally, you want to screw every 6" all across the panel. Hardwood joists may require longer screws to achieve a firm grip compared to softer wood varieties. The caveat to this is if the substrate is thick enough to be considered structural, such as 1-1/8" subfloor plywood, but as I recall, this is not what you have, so you want to have a longer Don't screw into the joists. The plywood should be installed perpendicular to the direction of the hardwood flooring grain to prevent cracking along the seams. A collated strip of screws in this case makes screwing subfloors a little faster, although it’s not as swift as nailing. Thread starter joeka101; Start date Aug 16, 2024; J. 2: I'm glad you're not going with philips but honestly the square tips can strip out too. The bottom layer will strip and the screw head will not pull flush. it is usually better option to use ditra sheets on the single layer of subfloor. In this blog post, we will discuss the proper specifications to follow when selecting the fasteners. Pair of screws and a drill would be enough to fix the creepy sounds coming from the floor. When selecting the right subfloor screws, there are several factors to consider. I thought I could borrow my bil's stapler again for this for 1/4" crown point staples. If you can't get those, i. What Tools Do You Need To Put Plywood Over Floor Joists? If your joists are solidly constructed and there is no movement, you can usually just glue and screw the plywood directly to the joists. Improve this question. mid-point over joists or support with noggins (at least 75mm x 50mm) for joins at right angles to the joists. I kept the existing plywood subfloor but screwed it down to the joists using drywall screws. Drive the screws approximately 8 inches apart. Plywood Subfloors: Plywood is a popular choice for subfloors due to its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture. I bought subfloor glue and will be putting it on the joists (should I just do a zigzag?) before I screw them in. “offset end and edge joints of the underlayment panels by at least two inches from the joints of subfloor panels; they should not coincide with framing below. Screws create stronger joints and are also less destructive. Square Drive Plastic Collated Zinc Coated Coarse Thread Subfloor Screw make installing soft wood easy. This will help ensure a smooth installation and provide a stronger foundation for the flooring. Before installing a plywood subfloor, it is important to inspect the current subfloor for any damages or potential issues. For 3/4-inch plywood, you will need screws that are labelled #8, #9, #10, or #12. Generally, for a 5/8″ OSB subfloor, 1 1/2″ screws are sufficient. A few critical features define a high-quality subfloor Framing, Flooring and Sub-Flooring - Screws for squeaky sub-floor - Hi all! I ripped up old carpet and want to install hardwood flooring. This house I'm remodeling was built in '89 and so far the Perhaps I was not explicit enough. The order you put in the screws matters too. Subfloor screws also come in varying thicknesses or diameters. it uncouples the subfloor from the tiles. Screw size. Also used for crating and pallet construction, they're resistant to corrosion and rust. Screws don’t require compression to hold them into the wood. To screw them in, I was planning on getting #8 2 Screws per 4'x8' sheet? subfloor; Share. Step 2: Gather Materials. I just did this. To avoid buckling, subfloor panels should be spaced with a 1/8-inch gap at all edges and ends to provide room for naturally occurring expansion. However, older floors can be a problem, as you may need to repair Framing, Flooring and Sub-Flooring - Attaching the second sheet of plywood to the subfloor - I read somewhere that when adding a second sheet of plywood to the subfloor, you shouldnt screw/nail to the joists, can someone tell me why? Also, I am installing two 3/4 sheets, what size screw should I be using for the top The screws should be long enough to fully penetrate the subfloor so that enough thread engages the wood to pull the screw heads slightly below the surface of the underlayment. Use a construction adhesive like Liquid Nails and apply it in a zigzag pattern before screwing the plywood down. As an example, see below the steps for screwing a plywood subfloor: Suppose you cut the plywood to the right size and lay it down on the floor joist. This helps to bond the layers more securely, especially in high-traffic areas. He said no because it wouldnt work(???)So now I am looking at Screws aren't used in the field because they won't pull in. This video shares how to install a wood subfloor, specifically how to add new subflooring in an old house. Why Screws are Recommended for Plywood Projects. There are several steps you need to take to ensure a successful and efficient project: Identify the type of subfloor: Determine whether your existing subfloor is made of plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or another material. For improved insulation. The reason for gluing and screwing the subfloor down in new construction is because the floor joists are often not as dry as they should be. If you're using inch and a half screws I would increase the screw count to at least seven for joist run. A detailed guide to installing a subfloor that helps mitigate floor squeaks for homeowners. Instead, fasten the plywood underlayment panels with staples, ring-shank nails or screws. This fastener is the best screw for squeaky floors because it includes a unique 4CUT Point that requires no pre-drilling in wood. Leave around an eighth-inch between the wall and underlayment. What length of screws should I use to secure the new 3/4” plywood to the old 3/4” plywood? 4 The 3-inch steel screws are used in plywood subfloors. PAMFast from FastenMaster is a versatile system that can drive screws for almost any application. The subfloor is 1" tongue-and-groove plywood, nailed down onto floor joists spaced 16". If you are using 1/4 inch plywood, and you are going through 3/4 inch subfloor, I would go with a 1-1/2 to 2 inch screw. Option 1: glue with construction adhesive and screw plywood to subfloor AND long screws through to the joists. Opt for screws long enough to penetrate through the plywood By properly spacing the screws, you can ensure a strong and durable plywood floor that will stand up to everyday use. SPAX T-STAR plus Flat Head HCR-X, Partial Thread screws are ideal for overhead work. For 3/4″ plywood subfloors, 2″ screws are better to account for the extra thickness. Most professional installers use two methods for attaching the subfloor to the concrete. I had a very squeaky kitchen and entry-way floor, which I wanted to tile over. Not sure of the thickness of the floor underneath. This information will help you choose the appropriate replacement material. I wasn't going to glue the sheets, just screw them. Install a layer of 5/8-in. Designed with a variety of depth settings for the appropriate countersink, non-skid teeth to provide stability and accurate fastening, and a light, compact body for easy maneuvering, these are the ideal screw gun for subfloor and underlayment applications. If you use adhesive for What Are the Best Screws for a Plywood Subfloor? You may use three-inch steel screws to attach plywood underlayment in construction projects, but first, you must plan for and consider the thickness of the floor. Long ago I posted about my floor project. Oct 24, 2018 #1 Hi, I'm screwing 12mm ply on to floorboards around 20mm thick. What I did was first screw down every board that was loose or had movement. The recommended distance for subfloor When choosing screws for a plywood subfloor, it is essential to consider the length and thickness of the screws. I understand your not a fan of luan plywood but that's what I have to work with. I once passed on an otherwise great house because the floor squeaked everywhere and I didn't want to deal with it. Reactions: DenverCountryBoy, Seven-Delta-FortyOne and rrk. When installing a plywood subfloor, you want your screw to go at least an inch past the plywood and Make sure that the sub-floor is level and even before installing the plywood. While not as fast as nailing off a floor, it is easier on the body and reduces squeaks. The best type of screw for subfloors depends on the specific project and materials used. As I have redone the floors in other rooms I have snapped chalk lines in a 12 x 12 grid and screwed down the sub-floor 12" OC in the field, 6" OC on the perimeter. From inside jobs to outdoor instal Yes, do both. Screws, Nuts and Bolts See all. But if an engineers decides that the subfloor is too thin for the OC of the floor joists, they ask for paint on glue long screws into joist and short screws to pull the two together. This rhythm means the sheets are fastened within But when we screw down plywood they want space for expansion. You can still place them as it has been done before the days of glue which is 6" on the edges and 8" in the field. Is it best to nail or screw If I'm running plywood over top of that, I use my quick drive with 1 1/2- 1 3/4" screws Plywood subfloors I use the quick drive gun with a 2 1/2" screw. if one was going to put down plywood on a wood plank type of sub floor would you screw it or nail it down? thanks. However, the success of your Desk screw size is about 2 1/2 to 3 inches which is too long for the subfloor. Well that simplifies Once the floor is prepared and level, lay down the plywood subfloor. First, you need to Hamilton Tile of Woodstock, GA fixes this rotten sub floor in this master bathroom in Marietta, GA and we explain our system for screwing down the plywood subfloor. Start from the center of the plywood and work out in two directions. Way to much BS to make sense of it. For thicker subfloor materials, such as 1 ⅛ inch thick plywood, longer screws of 2 ½ inches may This sub is for tool enthusiasts worldwide to talk about tools, professionals and hobbyists alike. Ok couple of quick questions. Login Register: FAQ Search: It is currently Thu Apr 17, 2025 2:50 am: Post subject: screwing plywood to sub floor. Moisture, which may accumulate when the sub-floor is exposed to weather during construction, can cause excessive expansion of the dry Underlayment panels if and fasten the subfloor to them with screws or nails as necessary to flatten panels. It will create a mess if the particle board is not predrilled because the screws will at least break-out the backside of the particle board there by preventing the screw from ever drawing the PB flat against the plywood especially if the PB is not high density (heads will pull through) and especially if the screws are going into something as thin as 5/8" (low grade) subfloor These interface with the wood fiber, much like a smaller screw thread, making it harder for the nail to back out. The subfloor is nailed and glued, I am not certain as to the nail spacing. Thanks. Screws need to be twisted into the subfloor, which takes more time than simply shooting a nail into subfloor material. When installing plywood I've put a couple of hundred screws in my subfloor for the purpose of preventing squeaks. Have more time to finish now! Have 1/2 "plywood underlayment to (staple?) to 1/2" plywood subfloor. That is the ideal size and thickness for a plywood subfloor. Like others have said - a can of worms. if you buy fully threaded screws, then predrill the 12mm plywood. I oversaw guys on a remodel tearing out a 100 year old subfloor, doing a multilayer plywood subfloor rolling glue and offsetting joints, screws and shims, smart levels, then using a leveling compound. Hopefully this clears things up. 143 1 1 gold It depends on a lot of factors - what is going over the plywood? how is the subfloor structured? what will sit on the floor? how long do you want it to last?. I'm told if screws protrude into the crawlspace they may wick moisture into the subfloor and underlayment, causing problems. Screwing plywood down to plywood and covering that with a finished floor. For a two person crew, one framer glues and sets sheets while the framer fastening can usually help pack material and fasten sheets. Also, it's important to know how to screw the subfloor properly. It will result in weakening of the joint and ultimately creaking of the subfloor. For instance a 2-in screw on a 4x8 sheet should run at least five screws along each joist. Joist Material: The type of material the joists are made from also influences screw choice. Granted in a nice custom home I could see the argument for using your substrate of choice, glue and screw, shims, all the extras to make it perfect. To install a plywood subfloor, you will need the following materials: The replacement of the plywood subfloor beneath a sinking floor is the best solution. Make sure the surface is clean and free of debris before beginning any installation. Now, I’m adding 3/4″ T&G Advantech 4×8 subfloor panels. You can use decking screws as they are properly coated to prevent rusting. The crawlspace is partially heated. Step 1: Inspect the Current Subfloor. Save time, save energy, and save your back by using a Collated Screw Gun for your next subfloor or underlayment job. By "underlayment" I mean 1/4" birch plywood installed for sheet vinyl. I like to screw down subfloor using a stand up cordless auto feed system. Aug 16, 2024 #1 I've read similar posts but my situation seems a bit different. drywall screws spaced every 6 in. That's a no-brainer don't want to put screws straight through the workpiece again (the drill/driver was sinking screws straight through cement board; the impact driver at least slows down and switches to impact so I can control it). It was recommended to screw it down to help with the issue. Grip-Rite SF134C1MBK #8 x 1-3/4 in. screw length, spacing, no glue, gaps between sheets on both layers, correct thinsets, etc. Nails can weaken the plywood, whereas screws can improve the connection and provide torque. Previous MrYoucandoityourself vi As Lowe’s explains – Identifying Subfloor Damage: The hosts, B Cody and Ashley, point out a severely damaged floor in a house, emphasizing the need for repair. The final option is to install the subfloor with screws, the most secure way to attach the subflooring. To level it with the rest of the house, I need to install an additional layer of 3/4” plywood. Plywood; Pressure Treated Lumber; Appearance Boards; Shims; Insulation. How to install subfloor sleepers over slab in the basement and other rooms with a concrete floor. They are labeled as #8, #9, #10, and #12, which are the recommended diameters if you are working with ¾-inch thick plywood. After cleaning, you will install the plywood over the subfloor one sheet at a time. My questions: What is the screw sequence on the edges & in the field? Do I offset the 4’x8’ sub-floor sheets? With FastenMaster’s PAMFast system, you’ll have no trouble selecting the best subfloor screws for your specific application. As one explained it, You now have one big sheet of plywood the size of the room 1 1/4" thick. CDX plywood and screw it to the subfloor with 1-5/8 in. Using 1/4″ tapcons, fastening the panels into the concrete (thru the underlayment, of course). OSB subfloor: OSB subfloors are usually nailed, but if you want to use screws for these types of subfloors then it Which is better to attach luan plywood over the sub floor ring shank nails or screws? If screw what kind? Existing floor has 1/4" Masonite+1/8" vinyl tile on top of that I will add 1/4" laun plywood + 1/8" vinyl tiles. 1 3/4" screws work best for 3/4" T&G plywood or OSB. Any new install gets glued to the joists Sent from my SM-N986U using Tapatalk -Rich. Subflooring panels (usually plywood or oriented strand board) Construction In this video I show you the steps involved to screw down plywood subfloor and remove any squeaks or noises prior to new floor installIf you have any questio Secure the joists to the walls or beams using appropriate fasteners, such as nails or screws, making sure they are tightly secured. (Galvanized screws or nails will work fine, but the pneumatic stapler will shave time off installation). Framing, Flooring and Sub-Flooring - Screw pattern and size for 3/4" plywood subfloor? - Hey there, I'm getting read to screw and glue some subfloor in. markc New Member. Use a good 2" screw into the floor joists and follow whatever pattern is recommending for the flooring you're 12’x24’Space, joists are 2”x6” Metal 16” on center & the sub-floor is 3/4” ply TnG using 1&1/4” self-tapping screws. Option 2: fasten new plywood only to subfloor (not to joists) to allow a little more movement. typical plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) subflooring satisfy minimum standards in current building codes, but builders and their clients have a choice to use high-performance materials in critical unseen places that can affect long-term Certainly, glue or no glue, nails or screws, and OSB or Plywood have different properties and produce different results. e. Then install your 1/4" plywood perpendicular to the current sub floor. pqfrdfrzjvdykrzgkvzyezrkngcabrkaibevzgbeiseqiqohjzslrracsfmuavquhbmcdiuxpaam
Screwing plywood to subfloor Your back will appreciate it!). You don't need to glue underlayment down to a flooring plywood subfloor M. Leave an expansion gap of at least 1/8 inch between the plywood sheets and a 3/4-inch gap around the perimeter of the room to avoid buckling. Two Common Building Methods: The transcript highlights two common methods of building houses – slab on grade and crawl space. For How many screws do I need for subfloor? The 3/4-inch-thick subfloor takes a 2-inch screw. We welcome posts about "new tool day", estate sale/car boot sale finds, "what is this" tool, advice about the best tool for a job, homemade tools, 3D printed accessories, toolbox/shop tours. He insisted on gluing and he was right - the Preferably a 2-in screw would be ideal, however an inch and a half would work I would just increase the amount of screws per run. 1: is what're you using to drive the screws? If the answer is "not an impact driver" you're going to have a bad time. With a typical combined plywood thickness of 1-1⁄4 in. Do Lay the plywood on the subfloor with screws 18 inches apart. A tape measure (Remember to Remove the particleboard and screw the plywood to the floor joists with 1-5/8 in. 2" o/c). Several screws with different types of width are present. Which is more economical? Choosing the Best Screws for Plywood projects can be the deciding factor in your project being a success or failure. This will provide a sturdy foundation for the subfloor. , use at least 1-1⁄2 in. tongue-and-groove plywood or OSB (oriented strand board). Improper spacing. The two methods have one thing in common - the head of the fastener once installed is flush with the surface of the subfloor. To add an extra layer of plywood over a subfloor, you will need to clean the floor to ensure there is no dirt and grime. When it comes to subfloors, it is generally recommended to use screws instead of nails. Squeaks happen mostly when a nail or screw just runs down beside a joist. Ideally, a I am going to install hardwood floors in my living room and dinning room, but to match the height of the tile in the kitchen, I will need to lay 1/4" plywood sheets to the existing When installing subflooring, it is important to ensure that it is properly secured to prevent creaking, movement, or other issues. Yes, deck screws are good to use on the subfloor. Impact driver instead of that insane cordless drill I have. Fastening Subfloor. Here are the basic steps: Screws are better for a quality subfloor job than nails. Hammering nails will destroy the soft plywood or OSB. Fixing plywood subfloor to concrete slab. Preparing the Subfloor Plywood Underlayment should be installed only on a dry subfloor. These numbers indicate the diameter or thickness of the screw. Use construction adhesive to secure the boards in place, especially around any outlets or other areas where nails won’t do a good job of holding them down. Be sure to Rather than nails, screws are best to use for subfloors — these fasteners are convenient, easy to remove and capable of providing torque that nails lack. Id like to screw a 18mm plywood subfloor in to the concrete so I can use hidden tongue and groove screws for the engineered wood floor. 2x8 stringers (14' span, planning to add/replace a beam at 10') with 3/4 T&G plywood subfloor. Follow asked Apr 19, 2016 at 14:58. The floor was constructed by first sistering new joists to the old ones, nailing and gluing 1x4 stock across the joists about 8-10" apart, then finally nailing and gluing 3/4" plywood on top. I didn't know what screws to use and I found In general, it is recommended to use screws that are 1 ½ to 2 inches long for ¾ inch-thick plywood or OSB subfloors. Re: Subfloor screw down questions Been screwing floors since '91 & have yet to have a call back for squeeks. The best subfloor screws can be chosen among them according to your flooring. No extra layers of underlayment are required. So, screw your sub floor down first and make sure there are no squeaks on the sub floor. Make sure you use underlayment grade plywood So I crossed that bridge 2 years ago. 3/4-in. A plywood subfloor will raise the floor’s height and prevent doors from opening smoothly, so be aware that you may need to make alterations to any doors that open into the room. Keep it short of the walls so there's no chance of rubbing against them. Our floor is a post and beam, T&G 2x6 with a 1/2" particle board sub-floor. So get on with your subfloor installation with confidence! Tips for Installing Subfloor Screws. it is my opinion that a quality floor system doesn't rely on screws to performMike Smith Rhode Island : How to secure a plywood subfloor? Yes, gluing plywood to a subfloor can add strength and reduce the chances of squeaking. the question of screwing subfloors seems to be one of opinion. there are many details you have to get right to avoid failure. Corded QuickDrive or equivelent (w/extension for standing up. The discussed house has a crawl space with a subfloor made of plywood. For plywood subfloors, it’s best to use self-tapping screws. tiling on plywood while ok in the right situations, is not advisable. Wood shrinks as it dries, and if the floor joist was wet when it was installed, a gap will develop between the joist and the subfloor as the joists dry. 200mm apart is fine. joeka101 New Member. Skipping pre-drilling can save you hours of time on a job and help you work smarter, not harder. If you don't take the above into account you won't be pulling the top layer down to the bottom layer; you'll just be If you want a firm grip, you can glue and screw your underlayment provided you don’t have plans to remove or replace it since gluing plywood underlayment fastens it to the subfloor. You just need to find the right type and size of screws. The bedroom already has a 3/4” Subfloor installed. To ensure a successful subfloor installation, always use the proper tools, such as a drill/driver with the This post references the earlier thread New Plywood, Old Particle Board, Gaps, and Vinyl Tile (ceramica): HELP! Without knowing the size of the subfloor or even the underlayment (I’ve been told different answers—either 1/2” and 5/8”—for the plywood underlayment), I’m not sure what size screws to use to further secure the underlayment to the Screws are the best to secure the plywood with, and since a premium glue is used, there only needs to be enough set to draw the plywood to the joists. The allure of using nails in a plywood or OSB installation is quite See more Use subfloor adhesive, and screw 8" at edges, 12" in field. Should I take this opportunity to screw down the subfloor? I hate squeaky floors. Use a heavy-duty drill to drive Phillips head wood screws through the subfloor into the floor joists. screws. Add construction paper or Preparing for Subfloor Replacement. The builder felt it was only necessary to use about 10 or 12 nails for each 4 x 8 sheet of sub floor . How PAMFast Makes the Job Even More Efficient. The 3-inch steel screws are used for plywood subfloors. Newbie Contributor: Joined: Sat Jul 11, 2020 8:29 pm How to Properly Secure Underlayment to Subfloor Without Causing Damage or Dips in the Floor Surface: Tips for Effective Fastening and Avoiding Loss of Streng Hey everyone, So I am about to start a larger subfloor installation with 22mm OSB and 60mm Spax subfloor screws. Moreover, desk screws often cost higher in projects. A thicker subfloor takes a 3-inch screw. Screws can cause the plywood to pucker. I’ve seen recommendations for 6″-8″ spacing around the perimeter, starting 2″ in from panel’s edge. drywall screws spaced every 4 in. To avoid squeaks, use screws (not nails) everywhere for the flooring. Glue is intrinsic to a sound floor. The second level has a 3/4 plywood sub-floor. With a square drive and fine threads, these screws work with most floor screw guns. Always use a moisture bearer, which is usually placed between the subfloor and the finished floor. And here is the proper way to identify what length you need: Here are nine common subfloor installation mistakes and how to prevent them: 1. One key factor in achieving this is screw spacing. No one should use staples for subfloor. Solidify the Subfloor What type of screws should I use for securing a subfloor? I've read anything from ring-shank nails to just regular wood screws. The thickness of the screw is also important. Preparation As fitting a plywood subfloor Whether you're fastening plywood or underlayment, Subfloor Screws provide a hassle-free solution for creating a stable and secure floor base. This process should be done with utmost precision and keep an equal distance from one point to another. Is glueing worth the extra labor? Because of the weight of the 4x8 plywood sheets I hired a handyman / carpenter to work with me. Make sure you predrill the hole through the 1/4 inch plywood, use a bit the same diameter as the outside thread of the screw. Mark the screws' spots It depends on the type of subfloor and the type of fastener. Jump to: Installing Plywood Over a Subfloor: Basic Idea; Best Type of Plywood for Installing Over Hamilton Tile of Woodstock, GA fixes this rotten sub floor in this master bathroom in Marietta, GA and we explain our system for screwing down the plywood su What length of screws should I use to secure the new 5/8” plywood to the old 5/8” plywood? 3. Back. However it's squeaky in places. Here's a guide to help you with the process: Prepare the materials and tools. " It Best Subfloor Screws for Plywood Subfloors. Insulation See all. Make sure any joins between the sheets of ply are supported below, ie. 3in screws into the joists, but also 1-5/8" screws into the subfloor (depending on the thickness of your subfloor) between the joists and at the edges of the plywood where it doesn't align with the joists. Staples are used for underlayment, not a second layer of subfloor (which is what you're installing). Self-tapping screws are designed to drill into the joists and create their own threads for a secure fit. They are available in various For a standard plywood subfloor, the screw should be 3 inches. Nailing is typically used for tongue and groove wood subfloors and thinner plywood overlays and screwing is preferred for thicker plywood overlays, particle board, and composite materials. Machine Screw; Metal Screws; Nuts; Accessories for Screws; This video is about floor repair - how to fix your plywood subfloor squeaks for laminate or hardwood flooring installation. There are also several other assembly So for your 18mm ply, screw length is 18 x 3 = 54mm the newest screw to this is 50mm; that's the size you use. . Some people don’t bother gluing down their plywood underlayment; they rather prefer to screw and nail the panels to the subfloor. Learn more about Great Stuff Construction Adhesive Installing subflooring with screws and preventing squeaks involves several steps. Ryne Everett Ryne Everett. Whether you’re crafting a custom piece of furniture, building cabinetry, or working on a detailed craft project, plywood offers a reliable foundation that can adapt to a wide range of applications. I bought an enormous amount of subfloor glue and used a tube per sheet of new t&g subfloor to try and help bridge any inconsistencies in the old planks. Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2020 5:45 am . However, some screw guns, like the Senco DuraSpin DS440-AC, are auto-fed. Because of their Never use adhesive on the sub-floor to attach the plywood underlayment. For a 23/32 subfloor, one source recommends using 1 1/4-inch In your case, you're fastening over existing subfloor, so you need a screw that will go through the attached panel (3/4") + subfloor (say 1/2") + the thickness of the panel (3/4") = 2" screws. For instance, a 3/4-inch plywood subfloor typically requires screws that are at least 1 1/2 inches long to ensure they penetrate the joists effectively. The 1/2" plywood underlayment is screwed and glued at 8-12" intervals on top of the joists ONLY, meaning that there is actually 19" between the screws (joists are 19. For the 1/2" underlayment, ideally, you want to screw every 6" all across the panel. Hardwood joists may require longer screws to achieve a firm grip compared to softer wood varieties. The caveat to this is if the substrate is thick enough to be considered structural, such as 1-1/8" subfloor plywood, but as I recall, this is not what you have, so you want to have a longer Don't screw into the joists. The plywood should be installed perpendicular to the direction of the hardwood flooring grain to prevent cracking along the seams. A collated strip of screws in this case makes screwing subfloors a little faster, although it’s not as swift as nailing. Thread starter joeka101; Start date Aug 16, 2024; J. 2: I'm glad you're not going with philips but honestly the square tips can strip out too. The bottom layer will strip and the screw head will not pull flush. it is usually better option to use ditra sheets on the single layer of subfloor. In this blog post, we will discuss the proper specifications to follow when selecting the fasteners. Pair of screws and a drill would be enough to fix the creepy sounds coming from the floor. When selecting the right subfloor screws, there are several factors to consider. I thought I could borrow my bil's stapler again for this for 1/4" crown point staples. If you can't get those, i. What Tools Do You Need To Put Plywood Over Floor Joists? If your joists are solidly constructed and there is no movement, you can usually just glue and screw the plywood directly to the joists. Improve this question. mid-point over joists or support with noggins (at least 75mm x 50mm) for joins at right angles to the joists. I kept the existing plywood subfloor but screwed it down to the joists using drywall screws. Drive the screws approximately 8 inches apart. Plywood Subfloors: Plywood is a popular choice for subfloors due to its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture. I bought subfloor glue and will be putting it on the joists (should I just do a zigzag?) before I screw them in. “offset end and edge joints of the underlayment panels by at least two inches from the joints of subfloor panels; they should not coincide with framing below. Screws create stronger joints and are also less destructive. Square Drive Plastic Collated Zinc Coated Coarse Thread Subfloor Screw make installing soft wood easy. This will help ensure a smooth installation and provide a stronger foundation for the flooring. Before installing a plywood subfloor, it is important to inspect the current subfloor for any damages or potential issues. For 3/4-inch plywood, you will need screws that are labelled #8, #9, #10, or #12. Generally, for a 5/8″ OSB subfloor, 1 1/2″ screws are sufficient. A few critical features define a high-quality subfloor Framing, Flooring and Sub-Flooring - Screws for squeaky sub-floor - Hi all! I ripped up old carpet and want to install hardwood flooring. This house I'm remodeling was built in '89 and so far the Perhaps I was not explicit enough. The order you put in the screws matters too. Subfloor screws also come in varying thicknesses or diameters. it uncouples the subfloor from the tiles. Screw size. Also used for crating and pallet construction, they're resistant to corrosion and rust. Screws don’t require compression to hold them into the wood. To screw them in, I was planning on getting #8 2 Screws per 4'x8' sheet? subfloor; Share. Step 2: Gather Materials. I just did this. To avoid buckling, subfloor panels should be spaced with a 1/8-inch gap at all edges and ends to provide room for naturally occurring expansion. However, older floors can be a problem, as you may need to repair Framing, Flooring and Sub-Flooring - Attaching the second sheet of plywood to the subfloor - I read somewhere that when adding a second sheet of plywood to the subfloor, you shouldnt screw/nail to the joists, can someone tell me why? Also, I am installing two 3/4 sheets, what size screw should I be using for the top The screws should be long enough to fully penetrate the subfloor so that enough thread engages the wood to pull the screw heads slightly below the surface of the underlayment. Use a construction adhesive like Liquid Nails and apply it in a zigzag pattern before screwing the plywood down. As an example, see below the steps for screwing a plywood subfloor: Suppose you cut the plywood to the right size and lay it down on the floor joist. This helps to bond the layers more securely, especially in high-traffic areas. He said no because it wouldnt work(???)So now I am looking at Screws aren't used in the field because they won't pull in. This video shares how to install a wood subfloor, specifically how to add new subflooring in an old house. Why Screws are Recommended for Plywood Projects. There are several steps you need to take to ensure a successful and efficient project: Identify the type of subfloor: Determine whether your existing subfloor is made of plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or another material. For improved insulation. The reason for gluing and screwing the subfloor down in new construction is because the floor joists are often not as dry as they should be. If you're using inch and a half screws I would increase the screw count to at least seven for joist run. A detailed guide to installing a subfloor that helps mitigate floor squeaks for homeowners. Instead, fasten the plywood underlayment panels with staples, ring-shank nails or screws. This fastener is the best screw for squeaky floors because it includes a unique 4CUT Point that requires no pre-drilling in wood. Leave around an eighth-inch between the wall and underlayment. What length of screws should I use to secure the new 3/4” plywood to the old 3/4” plywood? 4 The 3-inch steel screws are used in plywood subfloors. PAMFast from FastenMaster is a versatile system that can drive screws for almost any application. The subfloor is 1" tongue-and-groove plywood, nailed down onto floor joists spaced 16". If you are using 1/4 inch plywood, and you are going through 3/4 inch subfloor, I would go with a 1-1/2 to 2 inch screw. Option 1: glue with construction adhesive and screw plywood to subfloor AND long screws through to the joists. Opt for screws long enough to penetrate through the plywood By properly spacing the screws, you can ensure a strong and durable plywood floor that will stand up to everyday use. SPAX T-STAR plus Flat Head HCR-X, Partial Thread screws are ideal for overhead work. For 3/4″ plywood subfloors, 2″ screws are better to account for the extra thickness. Most professional installers use two methods for attaching the subfloor to the concrete. I had a very squeaky kitchen and entry-way floor, which I wanted to tile over. Not sure of the thickness of the floor underneath. This information will help you choose the appropriate replacement material. I wasn't going to glue the sheets, just screw them. Install a layer of 5/8-in. Designed with a variety of depth settings for the appropriate countersink, non-skid teeth to provide stability and accurate fastening, and a light, compact body for easy maneuvering, these are the ideal screw gun for subfloor and underlayment applications. If you use adhesive for What Are the Best Screws for a Plywood Subfloor? You may use three-inch steel screws to attach plywood underlayment in construction projects, but first, you must plan for and consider the thickness of the floor. Long ago I posted about my floor project. Oct 24, 2018 #1 Hi, I'm screwing 12mm ply on to floorboards around 20mm thick. What I did was first screw down every board that was loose or had movement. The recommended distance for subfloor When choosing screws for a plywood subfloor, it is essential to consider the length and thickness of the screws. I understand your not a fan of luan plywood but that's what I have to work with. I once passed on an otherwise great house because the floor squeaked everywhere and I didn't want to deal with it. Reactions: DenverCountryBoy, Seven-Delta-FortyOne and rrk. When installing a plywood subfloor, you want your screw to go at least an inch past the plywood and Make sure that the sub-floor is level and even before installing the plywood. While not as fast as nailing off a floor, it is easier on the body and reduces squeaks. The best type of screw for subfloors depends on the specific project and materials used. As I have redone the floors in other rooms I have snapped chalk lines in a 12 x 12 grid and screwed down the sub-floor 12" OC in the field, 6" OC on the perimeter. From inside jobs to outdoor instal Yes, do both. Screws, Nuts and Bolts See all. But if an engineers decides that the subfloor is too thin for the OC of the floor joists, they ask for paint on glue long screws into joist and short screws to pull the two together. This rhythm means the sheets are fastened within But when we screw down plywood they want space for expansion. You can still place them as it has been done before the days of glue which is 6" on the edges and 8" in the field. Is it best to nail or screw If I'm running plywood over top of that, I use my quick drive with 1 1/2- 1 3/4" screws Plywood subfloors I use the quick drive gun with a 2 1/2" screw. if one was going to put down plywood on a wood plank type of sub floor would you screw it or nail it down? thanks. However, the success of your Desk screw size is about 2 1/2 to 3 inches which is too long for the subfloor. Well that simplifies Once the floor is prepared and level, lay down the plywood subfloor. First, you need to Hamilton Tile of Woodstock, GA fixes this rotten sub floor in this master bathroom in Marietta, GA and we explain our system for screwing down the plywood subfloor. Start from the center of the plywood and work out in two directions. Way to much BS to make sense of it. For thicker subfloor materials, such as 1 ⅛ inch thick plywood, longer screws of 2 ½ inches may This sub is for tool enthusiasts worldwide to talk about tools, professionals and hobbyists alike. Ok couple of quick questions. Login Register: FAQ Search: It is currently Thu Apr 17, 2025 2:50 am: Post subject: screwing plywood to sub floor. Moisture, which may accumulate when the sub-floor is exposed to weather during construction, can cause excessive expansion of the dry Underlayment panels if and fasten the subfloor to them with screws or nails as necessary to flatten panels. It will create a mess if the particle board is not predrilled because the screws will at least break-out the backside of the particle board there by preventing the screw from ever drawing the PB flat against the plywood especially if the PB is not high density (heads will pull through) and especially if the screws are going into something as thin as 5/8" (low grade) subfloor These interface with the wood fiber, much like a smaller screw thread, making it harder for the nail to back out. The subfloor is nailed and glued, I am not certain as to the nail spacing. Thanks. Screws need to be twisted into the subfloor, which takes more time than simply shooting a nail into subfloor material. When installing plywood I've put a couple of hundred screws in my subfloor for the purpose of preventing squeaks. Have more time to finish now! Have 1/2 "plywood underlayment to (staple?) to 1/2" plywood subfloor. That is the ideal size and thickness for a plywood subfloor. Like others have said - a can of worms. if you buy fully threaded screws, then predrill the 12mm plywood. I oversaw guys on a remodel tearing out a 100 year old subfloor, doing a multilayer plywood subfloor rolling glue and offsetting joints, screws and shims, smart levels, then using a leveling compound. Hopefully this clears things up. 143 1 1 gold It depends on a lot of factors - what is going over the plywood? how is the subfloor structured? what will sit on the floor? how long do you want it to last?. I'm told if screws protrude into the crawlspace they may wick moisture into the subfloor and underlayment, causing problems. Screwing plywood down to plywood and covering that with a finished floor. For a two person crew, one framer glues and sets sheets while the framer fastening can usually help pack material and fasten sheets. Also, it's important to know how to screw the subfloor properly. It will result in weakening of the joint and ultimately creaking of the subfloor. For instance a 2-in screw on a 4x8 sheet should run at least five screws along each joist. Joist Material: The type of material the joists are made from also influences screw choice. Granted in a nice custom home I could see the argument for using your substrate of choice, glue and screw, shims, all the extras to make it perfect. To install a plywood subfloor, you will need the following materials: The replacement of the plywood subfloor beneath a sinking floor is the best solution. Make sure the surface is clean and free of debris before beginning any installation. Now, I’m adding 3/4″ T&G Advantech 4×8 subfloor panels. You can use decking screws as they are properly coated to prevent rusting. The crawlspace is partially heated. Step 1: Inspect the Current Subfloor. Save time, save energy, and save your back by using a Collated Screw Gun for your next subfloor or underlayment job. By "underlayment" I mean 1/4" birch plywood installed for sheet vinyl. I like to screw down subfloor using a stand up cordless auto feed system. Aug 16, 2024 #1 I've read similar posts but my situation seems a bit different. drywall screws spaced every 6 in. That's a no-brainer don't want to put screws straight through the workpiece again (the drill/driver was sinking screws straight through cement board; the impact driver at least slows down and switches to impact so I can control it). It was recommended to screw it down to help with the issue. Grip-Rite SF134C1MBK #8 x 1-3/4 in. screw length, spacing, no glue, gaps between sheets on both layers, correct thinsets, etc. Nails can weaken the plywood, whereas screws can improve the connection and provide torque. Previous MrYoucandoityourself vi As Lowe’s explains – Identifying Subfloor Damage: The hosts, B Cody and Ashley, point out a severely damaged floor in a house, emphasizing the need for repair. The final option is to install the subfloor with screws, the most secure way to attach the subflooring. To level it with the rest of the house, I need to install an additional layer of 3/4” plywood. Plywood; Pressure Treated Lumber; Appearance Boards; Shims; Insulation. How to install subfloor sleepers over slab in the basement and other rooms with a concrete floor. They are labeled as #8, #9, #10, and #12, which are the recommended diameters if you are working with ¾-inch thick plywood. After cleaning, you will install the plywood over the subfloor one sheet at a time. My questions: What is the screw sequence on the edges & in the field? Do I offset the 4’x8’ sub-floor sheets? With FastenMaster’s PAMFast system, you’ll have no trouble selecting the best subfloor screws for your specific application. As one explained it, You now have one big sheet of plywood the size of the room 1 1/4" thick. CDX plywood and screw it to the subfloor with 1-5/8 in. Using 1/4″ tapcons, fastening the panels into the concrete (thru the underlayment, of course). OSB subfloor: OSB subfloors are usually nailed, but if you want to use screws for these types of subfloors then it Which is better to attach luan plywood over the sub floor ring shank nails or screws? If screw what kind? Existing floor has 1/4" Masonite+1/8" vinyl tile on top of that I will add 1/4" laun plywood + 1/8" vinyl tiles. 1 3/4" screws work best for 3/4" T&G plywood or OSB. Any new install gets glued to the joists Sent from my SM-N986U using Tapatalk -Rich. Subflooring panels (usually plywood or oriented strand board) Construction In this video I show you the steps involved to screw down plywood subfloor and remove any squeaks or noises prior to new floor installIf you have any questio Secure the joists to the walls or beams using appropriate fasteners, such as nails or screws, making sure they are tightly secured. (Galvanized screws or nails will work fine, but the pneumatic stapler will shave time off installation). Framing, Flooring and Sub-Flooring - Screw pattern and size for 3/4" plywood subfloor? - Hey there, I'm getting read to screw and glue some subfloor in. markc New Member. Use a good 2" screw into the floor joists and follow whatever pattern is recommending for the flooring you're 12’x24’Space, joists are 2”x6” Metal 16” on center & the sub-floor is 3/4” ply TnG using 1&1/4” self-tapping screws. Option 2: fasten new plywood only to subfloor (not to joists) to allow a little more movement. typical plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) subflooring satisfy minimum standards in current building codes, but builders and their clients have a choice to use high-performance materials in critical unseen places that can affect long-term Certainly, glue or no glue, nails or screws, and OSB or Plywood have different properties and produce different results. e. Then install your 1/4" plywood perpendicular to the current sub floor. pqfr dfrzj vdykrzg kvzye zrkng cabrk aibe vzgbei seq iqohj zslrracs fmuav quh bmcdiu xpaam