A Commercial Flooring Guide to Subfloor Materials

While we often talk about the different commercial flooring types that our clients can implement to enhance their space, we don’t talk as much about what’s underneath those floors, which is sometimes just as important. Subfloors are a crucial component of your commercial flooring as they provide structural support, leveling, moisture barrier properties, sound insulation, and more to the commercial space. Today, we’re diving into the different types of subfloor materials and their use.

Types of Subfloor

Many different types of subfloor products can be utilized in a commercial flooring setting, but here are some of the most common and their notable qualities:

• Plywood

Plywood subfloors can be suitable for most flooring types. When properly fastened, it should be very sturdy.  Finished plywood or specialty plywood underlayment is very smooth and is used on top of the plywood decking. The joints between sheets are usually prepared with a skim coat so as to not telegraph through the flooring material.

• Concrete

Concrete is most often used for commercial buildings due to its strength and durability. However, concrete is porous and will allow moisture to permeate through it. New concrete takes at least 30 days to harden and release its excess water. Moisture tests are recommended for concrete substrates, especially if they are on grade.

• Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

OSB is commonly used under wood, carpet, and vinyl. It’s a cost-effective solution and is commonly used in residential buildings. In commercial settings, we typically install an underlayment over OSB boards before proceeding with the installation.

• Gypsum Concrete

With heated concrete floors rising in popularity, gypsum concrete is favored for its durability, fire resistance, and all of the normal perks of concrete subflooring. However, due to its porosity, gypsum requires a primer on top of it or the adhesives used in commercial flooring will soak into the floor and be ineffective. Portland-based concrete is generally a better choice for most commercial flooring products.

Choosing the Right Subfloor

When determining the right subfloor material for your commercial space, many factors should be considered:

• Flooring Type

One of the more important factors to look at is the flooring type you’re using, which will help determine which subfloor to use since, as we explored before, not all flooring types can benefit from the same subfloor types. Considering your flooring type above all else when choosing your subfloor material, your floors will work more cohesively over time.

• Environment

Recognize the environment. Is the area you’re flooring subject to heavy foot traffic? Is there a high moisture content? What will the commercial space be used for? All of these questions can help determine which subfloor material is the best solution to support your commercial flooring. For instance, if you’re flooring an area with a high moisture content, then particle board may not be advised.

• Consult With a Professional

The most crucial element to choosing the right subfloor material is to consult with a flooring professional, like our team at CFIC. There are many different types of subfloors, and the best way to know which is best for a space is to see it in action. By consulting with a professional, you can utilize their wisdom to achieve the commercial floor that fits best with your space and lasts for years to come.

Our team’s combined experience has allowed us to see the performance factors of numerous subfloors over many years, helping us make informed decisions about the flooring and subflooring combinations that can most appropriately benefit a commercial space. 

Interested in working with us on an upcoming project? Learn more about our team’s experience!

*Photo courtesy of Mannington Commercial.