Types Of Subfloor In Old Houses

Subflooring is the layer of flooring that is installed beneath the finished flooring. It provides support for the finished flooring and helps to level the floor. In old houses, there are a variety of different types of subflooring that can be found. The most typical types of subflooring in old houses are wood, concrete, and gypsum.

Wood Subflooring

Wood subflooring is the most common type of subflooring found in old houses. It is made from planks of wood that are typically 1 inch thick and 6 inches wide. The planks are laid perpendicular to the joists and are nailed into place. Wood subflooring is strong and durable, but it can be susceptible to moisture damage. If the wood subflooring is not properly protected from moisture, it can rot and deteriorate.

Concrete Subflooring

Concrete subflooring is another common type of subflooring found in old houses. It is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel. Concrete subflooring is very strong and durable, but it can be cold and damp. If the concrete subflooring is not properly insulated, it can lead to cold feet and uncomfortable living conditions.

Gypsum Subflooring

Gypsum subflooring is a type of subflooring that is made from gypsum plaster. Gypsum plaster is a mixture of gypsum, water, and sand. Gypsum subflooring is lightweight and easy to install, but it is not as strong as wood or concrete subflooring. Gypsum subflooring is also susceptible to moisture damage.

Other Types Of Subflooring

In addition to wood, concrete, and gypsum subflooring, there are a number of other types of subflooring that can be found in old houses. These include:

Asphalt subflooring is made from asphalt and is typically used in basements and crawl spaces.
Cork subflooring is made from cork and is typically used for soundproofing.
Fiberboard subflooring is made from wood fibers and is typically used in areas where there is a lot of moisture.
Metal subflooring is made from metal and is typically used in commercial buildings.

The type of subflooring that is used in an old house will depend on a number of factors, including the age of the house, the climate, and the intended use of the space. It is important to choose the right type of subflooring for the specific application in order to ensure that the floor is strong, durable, and comfortable.