How to Install a Dricore Subfloor in a Basement
Installing a Dricore subfloor is a job most homeowners can do on their own over a weekend. You'll need to start with an empty basement and a clean floor. After that, it's a matter of laying the tiles 1/4 inch in from the walls, leveling them and fitting them together with shims. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- 1/4-inch wall spacers
- Dricore tiles
- Leveling shims
- Hammer
- Tapping block
- Circular saw
Instructions
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1
Allow the Dricore subfloor tiles to sit for two days and acclimate to your basement. This prevents the material from contracting or expanding after you've installed it.
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2
Place temporary spacers against the wall to create a 1/4-inch gap. If you don't want to purchase the spacers, you can create your own using a dowel or a scrap piece of lumber cut to 1/4 inch thick.
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3
Start laying the tiles in a corner. Lay the first one so the grooves face the walls.
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4
Attach the next Dricore subfloor tile into place using your tap block or scrap piece of lumber and a hammer to ensure a tight fit. Continue to lay tile in a straight line, cutting to fit posts as needed.
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5
Level each piece of tile using your leveling shims.
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6
Install the next row of tile, staggering it to create a brick-like finish. This gives the entire Dricore subfloor structural strength. Continue in this manner until the entire floor is covered.
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Install floating flooring or carpeting over the top of the tile if you like. It's not necessary, but it is possible to install such flooring over the top of the Dricore tiles.
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