Flooring Basics

Hi there, I’d like to fix the flooring on my top floor unit, as it’s quite pitched in this 120 year old brick house, and it’s also in terrible shape (different wood types in each room, etc). I’d like to rip it all up, level the subfloor, and drop a layer of soundproof material like QT/Proflex and possibly between the joists as well, before putting all new wood flooring. 1\. Do I need (i.e. “is it usually a good idea or overkill”) to rip up and replace the subflooring as well? I assume YES. 2\. Contractors are quoting me all sorts of prices. I want to do more than just the flooring in the apartment but not all at once due to budgetary constraints. But that said should I look for a ‘flooring specialist’ to do this instead of a contractor? I’m having trouble telling who to trust. 3\. What’s a BALLPARK figure for 800 square feet of flooring labor? 4\. Any particular wood type recommendations for someone somewhat budget-conscious who wants something that will last a while? 5\. If I want to move a wall, does that decision have to be made before flooring is even considered? I know this is probably a stupid question. thanks in advance

soundhoner

in Flooring 9 years and 8 months ago

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danielbruce | 9 years and 7 months ago

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Hello, It would be easier to give advice if you posted some pics of their floor. As you are going to invest in remodeling on flooring, make a concern with home engineer or expert, he/she can advise you the best suggestion. Two months ago I did floor renovation in my bedroom after getting some good suggestions from home contractors from BuilderoutletUSA. So make a contact with an expert.

brucef | 9 years and 8 months ago

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While I am sure you would like level floors, would you settle for flat? Often, sloping floors sink in the middle, while the ends are similar in elevation. Shoot a laser and make sure, and do it in many places. If the masonry structure is out of plumb, then one wall is lower than another. Say you were to level the floor, choosing the highest unchangeable spot. This will require lifting baseboards, door casings, trimming doors. Padding existing beams is a fools approach, you will have to sister with 2X6 or 2x8s. Put a sister on both sides, or you’ll drive yourself crazy trying to install the new sub floor.

jeandias | 9 years and 8 months ago

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Nice post ..Through this i also get my answer regarding wood floors.. For a suggestion – You can check wide variety of wood floors at https://goo.gl/wYD1pi. Thank you and keep posting.

resident2 | 9 years and 8 months ago

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It depends on how “pitched” the floor is and why is it pitched? If you are planning on changing the whole floor then do it all at the same time, with the same contractor or you will get different levels; literally as well as different standards of style & workmanship if you do one room at a time. And yes, moving the wall is all part of the same carpentry job. What you need is a floor guy that works with a good carpenter to level and prepare the floor for the new finish floor. Try Keith Theodore: 917-518-9941 he is a floor guy that has a very good structural carpenter that works with him when needed.