How to Install Plywood Floors

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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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.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Plywood sheets
Power saw
Hammer
Nails
Measuring tape
Patching compound

Step1

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.

Step2

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.

Step3

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.

Step4

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

Step5

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

Step6

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.

Step7

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

Step8

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.