how to repair water damaged subfloor

How Do You Fix Water-Damaged Subfloor?

1. Assess The Damage. It’s always a good idea to get a good look at things before you start any repairs. ...
2. Mark The Area. Take some time to inspect the area and mark the parts that need to be replaced. ...
3. Cut Out The Damaged Areas. Use a saw to cut out the damaged areas. ...
4. Add The New Flooring. Put your new flooring in the proper location. ...
5. Install Flooring. ...

Full Answer

How to replace subfloor after water damage?

• Start exposing the floor to fresh air by removing any rugs or furniture. ...
• Any wet drywall needs to be removed anyway, so remove the ceiling drywall below the damage to expose the floor joists.
• Create air movement with box fans ( available on Amazon ), both on top of the finished flooring and the floor below. ...

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How much does it cost to repair a subfloor?

When this happens, it is recommended to fix them as soon as possible. The national average cost of subfloor repairs is between $250 and $750, with most homeowners paying around $500 to fix a 150 sq.ft. water-damaged section of subflooring. This project’s low price is $150 for patching a small hole.

Should I repair or replace water damaged floors?

If the water has been sitting on the hardwood floors for a long period of time, you will most likely need to replace the hardwood floors. Salt Water: Salt water is not dangerous, but can cause damage to hardwood floors if not dealt with immediately. A common example are salt water fish tanks.

How to remove and replace a rotten subfloor?

Remove the Subfloor From Under the Wall If your subfloor is heavily rotted, you may be able to pull back on the remaining section of the subfloor and remove it by hand. If not, attach a 3/4-inch auger bit to the drill and drill to a depth of 3 1/2 inches underneath the wall bottom plate on both sides of the rotted area.

Will wet subfloor dry out?

If flooding occurs, and there is water leaking into the sub-flooring, it is crucial to dry out the subfloor as soon as possible. The first step is to absorb any water lurking on the surface of the floor. Then, place a dehumidifier at high settings to pull out any moisture that is still in the air.

Does water damaged subfloor need to be replaced?

The best choice for damaged subflooring is usually to have it replaced — especially if it is growing mold. In severe situations, it may feel like replacing the flooring is the only action you can take.

How do you fix a subfloor underneath?

3:035:18How to Repair Bathtub Subfloor Damage Underneath in ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOr the subflooring. So simply fill it in cut it in fill it in if the damage is bad block underneathMoreOr the subflooring. So simply fill it in cut it in fill it in if the damage is bad block underneath it. And make sure that the blocks are supported properly here's a way you can support the blocks.

Can water damaged wood floors be fixed?

Depending on the severity of damage, the hardwood floors may only need to be refinished. In some cases patching is required to replace the damaged boards prior to refinishing. In the worst case scenario, the entire floor needs to be removed and replaced.

How do you fix a rotted subfloor?

3:005:46How to replace repair rotted sub floor, rotten floor. Easy! Home MenderYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it doesn't flop and it doesn't sound the plan is to sister on with two by sixes two this backMoreSo it doesn't flop and it doesn't sound the plan is to sister on with two by sixes two this back board and build it out enough to catch the end of my new subfloor. We're also going to tie in here.

How do you replace a wet subfloor?

How to Fix a Water-Damaged Subfloor: Your 8-Step DIY GuideStart by Stopping the Water. ... Expose the Subflooring. ... Make Your Mark. ... Carefully Cut Subflooring. ... Remove Damaged Materials. ... Speed Up the Drying Process. ... Reinforce Floor Joists. ... Install Your New Subflooring.

How do you fix water damaged plywood?

3:476:04How to replace water damaged plywood subfloor; DIY NC Floor GuysYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that you can break the plywood down into smaller sections that makes it easier to tear. Out. ThenMoreSo that you can break the plywood down into smaller sections that makes it easier to tear. Out. Then you just use whatever tools you have on hand and some elbow grease and tear.

How do you fix rotted plywood?

There are two basic ways of repairing rotten plywood, by replacement or by treating it with epoxy-based compounds. The decision usually comes down to one of cost, with larger repairs requiring replacement, rather than repair. The first thing to do is to identify the extent and source of the damage.

How much does it cost to replace a subfloor?

Cost to Repair Subfloor*12Subfloor repair, entire room$300 - $400Subfloor replacement, small area$400 - $500Subfloor replacement, entire room$570 - $720*Prices based on a 500-square-foot room for entire room, 100-square-feet for small area1 more row•Mar 24, 2022

How do you fix a wet soaked wood floor?

It's not just water that causes mold and mildew; it's the combination of water and dirt.Remove Surface Water. ... Scrub the Floor. ... Treat Moldy Areas. ... Dry the Floor. ... Sand Water-Damaged Wood Flooring. ... Deal With Mold on Wood Under Paint. ... Replace Laminate.

How much does it cost to repair a water-damaged floor?

Repairing water damaged floors costs $8 to $50 per square foot. That price repairs or replaces boards as necessary and blends them into your existing room. It's more expensive to repair water damage than to replace your floor if it's widespread.

How long does it take for water to ruin wood?

Wood can Start to Rot in 1-6 months If: Water and/or air space is hot & humid. The area is at or near the ground.

How do you know if you should replace subfloor?

Here are five signs it's time to replace a subfloor.Those squeaks could be calling for your attention. ... Sinking sections are tell-tale signs of subfloor failure. ... Moisture could be causing your cupping floorboards. ... Cracked and popping tiles could be a material issue. ... Possible water damage is always a concern.

How much does it cost to replace bathroom subfloor?

It costs approximately $3 to $10 per square foot to replace a subfloor, depending on the material you choose. Consider choosing a moisture-proof subfloor for bathrooms or basements.

How much does it cost to repair a water damaged floor?

Repairing water damaged floors costs $8 to $50 per square foot. That price repairs or replaces boards as necessary and blends them into your existing room. It's more expensive to repair water damage than to replace your floor if it's widespread.

How do you fix water damaged plywood?

3:476:04How to replace water damaged plywood subfloor; DIY NC Floor GuysYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that you can break the plywood down into smaller sections that makes it easier to tear. Out. ThenMoreSo that you can break the plywood down into smaller sections that makes it easier to tear. Out. Then you just use whatever tools you have on hand and some elbow grease and tear.

What is subflooring in a house?

Subflooring is one of your home’s most important architectural components. It supports the first floor by securing the floor joists that span your basement or crawl space. The subfloor forms an underlying plane that holds up walls and serves as a level foundation for finished floors.

How long does it take for mold to dry?

Allow several days for affected areas to dry before finishing repairs. Otherwise, you risk mold growing on damp materials. Several large box fans and a dehumidifier speed up the drying process.

How do I repair a water damaged subfloor?

2. Expose the Subflooring. Remove baseboards around affected areas, and pull back carpeting to the nearest wall. If you’re working with vinyl flooring, cut out sections over the water-damaged subfloor, and plan on replacing them after you complete repairs.

How to clean up water damage?

If you’ve ever handled water damage cleanup on your own, you know how quickly problems can spread. 1. Start by Stopping the Water. Unless you’re dealing with the aftermath of a flood, water in the subfloor has a source somewhere in the house. You need to find it and fix it before starting repairs. 2.

How long does it take to clean coffee spilled on kitchen floor?

It only takes a minute to wipe up spilled coffee on the kitchen floor. It can take days to recover from water damage after a burst pipe or storm flooding. As you work through the job of cleaning carpets and fixing hardwood floors, you have to be concerned about your home’s subflooring. Can you dry a subfloor after flooding, ...

How do I check if a tile floor is damp?

Most tile floors adhere to a cement board sandwiched between the floor and subflooring. You can check for dampness by pulling up tiles, but a restoration contractor takes care of the inspection with special equipment that leaves floors in place.

Can you dry subfloor after a flood?

In cases of extensive water damage, drying the subfloor after a flood can be very difficult, and that complicat es repairs. Soaked wood quickly develops mold and rot that impacts adjacent framing and drywall. In this kind of situation, it’s best to replace the entire expanse.

How to Dry Out the Subfloor Effectively

If a flood or leak has occurred inside of your home, it’s almost guaranteed that the flooring will be impacted. Unfortunately, this will not safely dry out on its own. In fact, leaving flooring to dry naturally can make the damage worse while also giving mold and mildew a chance to grow.

Types of Subflooring

There are four main types of subflooring materials that are used in the construction of most homes. These include:

How to Remove Subflooring

In most homes, the subfloor is made of plywood that’s 3/4″ or 5/8″ thick. When it’s exposed to water and not dried out promptly, it will swell and can eventually rot or experience mold growth. Moisture can also cause problems with the structural integrity of the subflooring and eventually lead to safety issues within the home.

How to Replace Subflooring

Once the ruined subflooring is out, it will be time to install the new material to make the base complete again. To do this, new subflooring materials should be purchased right away.

Restoring Your Home After Water Damage

When dealing with water damage in your home, it’s always important to address the subflooring. If this is something you’re not able to do on your own, then don’t hesitate to call professionals such as ours at Action 1 Restoration.

Out With the Old

If your floor has a covering, you'll have to remove enough to expose the damaged floor -- in most cases, it's best to remove all of it. You should then cut out a rectangle that encloses the damage, bisecting the studs running parallel to the sides of the rectangle.

In With the New

Once the plywood or OSB is gone, you'll have an idea of the condition of the joists. You can reinforce weakened ones by nailing lengths of comparable lumber to them -- this will give you solid wood to which to attach the new plywood. Screwing new material of the same thickness as the existing subfloor material is more secure than nailing it.

Most Common Causes Of Rotted Bathroom Floors & Subfloors

Given that the bathroom likely has more plumbing in it than most other rooms in your home, the most common cause of rotted flooring and water damage is going to be leaks.

How Do I Know If My Bathroom Floor Is Rotted?

Rotted subflooring is a result of unresolved and ongoing water damage. When water leaks or splashes are allowed to continue to accumulate, your flooring in bathroom will continue to absorb moisture, and over time as it remains in contact with the subflooring will begin to cause rot.

Should You Repair Or Replace?

In most instances of severe water damage, the best option is to have the subflooring in your bathroom completely replaced.

How To Replace A Rotted Bathroom Subfloor

Replacing a Rotted Bathroom Floor / Subfloor can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours of actual labor time, so you’ll want to plan in advance so you have enough time to finish

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Rotted Bathroom Floor & Does Insurance Cover It?

On average, replacing a plywood subfloor costs between $800 and $1600 in a 300 square foot bathroom.

Can I Replace The Rotted Subfloor And Flooring Myself?

Replacing your own rotted flooring and subflooring is possible, but will require some specialized equipment and materials. If you feel confident in your ability and have access to the necessary tools and equipment/materials needed, it is entirely feasible to replace the rotted subflooring yourself.

When To Call A Professional

Water Damaged subfloors & floor joists can lead to serious structural issues, and need to be properly repaired to ensure the safety of your bathroom floor.

How thick is plywood subfloor?

Plywood subfloors vary in thickness from 5/8 inch to 1 inch. The wider the space between your floor joists, the thicker your subfloor will be. Use a pry bar to pull up your rotted subfloor.

What is a level subfloor?

Level subfloors are key to gorgeous floors. Image Credit: Stephen Paul. You could be walking on the finest tile or hardwood that money can buy, but the truth is that the flooring in your home is only as good as the subfloor beneath it. Sometimes, subfloors made of wood types like plywood or oriented strandboard ...

What are the two types of subfloors?

Two common types of subflooring made from wood materials are plywood and OSB. These two materials may look similar since they are both made of pressed wood, but they are quite different when it comes to how they hold up as a subfloor option. Plywood is made of thin strips of wood veneer that are pressed together using heat.

How to tell if subfloor is damaged?

There are a few telltale signs of a damaged subfloor, including damage to your flooring — look for cracked grout in tile flooring, hardwood that's cupping or laminate floors that appear to have bubbles underneath.

What is plywood made of?

Plywood is made of thin strips of wood veneer that are pressed together using heat. Plywood is the most common type of subflooring used in homes and boasts a quick drying time if it does become exposed to moisture.

How to check for rotting joists?

To check for rotting joists, look for wet or dry rot, insect damage and rust around hardware near the joists. You can repair joists that have less than 1 inch of rot by scraping away any rotted wood and filling the space with epoxy.

Which is cheaper, OSB or plywood?

OSB is a popular option because it is cheaper than plywood and is more dense despite being the same thickness. Although plywood does dry out quicker than OSB , the glue that holds it together can become compromised by wetness since it does absorb moisture more quickly.

What is Subflooring?

The flooring under the mail walking floor is called a subfloor. The main purpose of a subfloor is to prevent the surface flooring from water and moisture damage.

When to replace subfloor from water damage

It is not even noticeable for a flooring surface to have a little squeaking, especially for hardwood plank surface flooring. But this can create a big issue because this could be a sign of water or moisture damage under the floor.

Should you repair or replace a Water Damaged Subfloor?

Replacing and preparing a damaged subfloor depends on its current state. If you understand the water damage signs immediately and begin the drying process.

Conclusion

You surely found the answer when to replace subfloor from water damage. I have tried to cover all the major points that can help you while repairing or replacing your subfloor as well.

Signs of Water Damaged Particle board Subfloor

If you have a carpet, you will start to see small visible humps that can also be felt when walking over it.

How to Repair Water Damaged & Rotten Particle board Subfloors

Usually to remove the water damaged Particle board subfloor you will need to cut it out, before we remove the particle board it’s important to mark the locations of the joists so as not to cut into them accidentally.

When to Call a Professional

In case of a small leak and if there’s only a small bulging in one or two places of your Particle board subfloor it’s perfectly possible to repair it yourself as a DIY project.