How to Install Plywood Floors

If you're planning to install wood floors, you'll want to build a plywood subfloor. Plywood is usually made from southern pine and varies from 5/8 to 3/4 inches thick. Sheets measure 4 foot by 8 foot. While everyone has their own opinion about many building supplies, they all give a thumbs up to plywood that falls under the American Plywood Association's regulations.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plywood sheets
• Power saw
• Hammer
• Nails
• Measuring tape
• Patching compound

1. Measure your room and determine how many sheets of plywood you need. You don't want to have to halt the project because you ran out of supplies.

2. Check the stamp markings. APA-approved plywood will have certain characteristics that set it apart. Look for the words "plugged crossbands" or "underlayment" stamped on the sheets. Also, you want the face of the plywood to be fully sanded, not touch-sanded or plugged.

3. Look for the exposure classification. Some plywood can handle limited subjection to exposure. Others can handle a wet environment. Take into account which room you're using the plywood in.

4. Lay some plywood down onto the floor. This will help you determine which the direction it fits best.

5. Glue and nail the plywood sheets to the floor joists. Make sure you drive the nails just below the plywood surface.

6. Measure and cut pieces down if necessary. Once you finish the main portion of the floor, you'll notice you need smaller pieces for the edges of the room.

7. Patch all gaps and chips in the plywood. Use a patching compound. Once dry, sand it flat.

8. Fill the spaces between the plywood panels. Sand and level them.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't fill the nail holes. This may cause a small bump on the floor you lay on top of the plywood.
• Wear protective eye wear when using power equipment.