Written by Tim Gaughan, Urban Edge. Published June 1, 2026.
The floor you see depends on the one you don't: a new floor laid over a subfloor that dips, squeaks or flexes will show every flaw, wear out early and may void the floor's warranty. Prep means making the subfloor flat, solid, dry and clean before anything goes on top.
What can go wrong if it's skipped
- LVP and laminate: joints peak or separate over dips; the floor sounds hollow and flexes.
- Hardwood: squeaks, gaps and boards that move underfoot.
- Tile: cracked tiles and grout over a subfloor that flexes.
- Any floor: the maker's warranty usually requires a flat, dry subfloor; skipping prep can void it.
Signs your subfloor needs work
- A bouncy or soft spot when you walk.
- Squeaks that move around a room.
- Dips you can see when you lay a long straightedge on the floor.
- Old floor coverings layered on top of each other.
- Stains or a musty smell near a toilet, tub or exterior door.
What prep involves
- Removing old flooring down to the subfloor.
- Screwing down loose panels to stop squeaks.
- Flattening: sanding high spots, filling low spots, sometimes leveling compound.
- Moisture checks, on concrete and near wet rooms.
- Underlayment where the floor needs it.
When it's rot
A soft spot near a toilet or tub is often rotted subfloor from a slow leak. That's a repair before flooring, not prep, and our Dry Rot site covers it.
How we price it
We check the subfloor at the free measure and price any prep in writing, so it isn't a surprise on install day.
Our work is covered by a 2-year workmanship warranty, in writing.
Book a free measure or call Tim, (503) 597-8520.