How to Nail Subfloor Plywood
Nailing a plywood subfloor is a common task. A correctly laid subfloor is the ideal surface for subsequent layers of quality flooring. Installed improperly, a plywood subfloor will damage the finished floor. Whether you are installing a complete subfloor or replacing damaged portions of an existing subfloor, the process is the same. Before installing new flooring, inspect your subfloor for common problems including water damage, warping, "nail-pop" and chips requiring repair, and make sure the finished flooring is level and smooth. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Lay the plywood down on top of the floor joists. Be sure the plywood is aligned so as to allow room for the next piece. Each sheet of plywood should lie in the center of the joist leaving approximately 1 inch of room.
-
2
Sink a nail into each corner of the plywood to secure it to the joists underneath. Doing so will prevent the sheet from moving during installation. Be sure to countersink the nail heads 1/16 inch to keep them from popping up through the finished floor. Countersinking a nail is the process of striking the nail to form a divot in the surrounding subfloor.
-
-
3
Snap a chalk-line down the center of each joist. Position your helper at one end of the sheet and have her hold the chalk-line in the center of the joist. Hold the other end in the center of the joist on the opposite side. This will ensure that every nail you sink will drive into the joist.
-
4
Drive the nails into the plywood along each chalk-line. Space the nails 12 to 15 inches apart. Use a small amount of wood filler to cover the countersunk nails.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Use needle-nose pliers to hold the nail and prevent smashing your finger when nailing in corners.
Applying wood glue under each piece of plywood will prevent squeaks.
Improper alignment of the first piece will cause your whole subfloor to be out of alignment.
