The number one hidden culprit of Division 9 “unforeseen expenses” is typically buried at the time of bid. Once the demolition crew exposes the buildings existing sub floors the clandestine budget bamboozler rears its ugly head.
Without a properly prepared subfloor, the finished floor will not look beautiful as intended. Cupping, peaking, poor pattern matching, pimples and bellies will telegraph in no time.
Here are the 5 most common subfloor issues that PARflooring encounters on a daily basis.
1. Moisture Issues: If the moisture content is too high in the concrete slab adhesive issues will occur. PARflooring performs calcium chloride and/or RH testing on all commercial job sites to ensure compatibility. Assumptions cannot be made…. Testing is key to success.
2. Plywood Delamination: Plywood dries out over time. If the flooring being removed was directly adhered to such subfloors than splintering and delamination can occur at the time of removal. The addition of a layer of luan or ¼” plywood may be required to stabilize the subfloor and provide a smooth surface.
3. Rolling Subfloors: Smooth and level are not the same thing, but architects, contractors and building owners interchange these words. This is very alarming for a flooring professional! Subfloors are supposed to be within 1/8″ for every 10’…. This is hard to find in our aging buildings. If the subfloors were not pinned when they were poured rolling will occur and expectations need to be adjusted.
4. Hot Tiles: Asbestos tiles are SCARY! If the tiles are not soundly in place removal may be required. This will necessitate hazmat protocols that will delay the projects schedule and increase the projects budget.
5. Sealants: A short-term fix can create a long term expense. People choose to paint, wax and/or seal their subfloors because it creates a “cool” affect. Most of these finishes are incompatible with flooring adhesives. The subfloors would need to be scarified or shot blasted if traditional flooring materials are wanted.
Luckily times are changing. Many of the flooring categories have unique solutions available thanks to science and innovation. Floating floors are a growing category that would help disguise some of the issues listed above and alleviate the need for costly repairs. LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile), Carpet Tile, Laminate Flooring and Interlocking Rubber Flooring all have effective solutions.
Call TeamPAR when you are budgeting your next flooring renovation. Our product knowledge and value engineering practices will increase your ROI and ensure you stay within your budget. TeamPAR is your educated dealer.
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