The Best Subfloors for Installing Hardwood Flooring

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the best subfloors for installing hardwood flooring,

Hardwood flooring is an investment in beauty, longevity, and value. But what lies beneath your stunning oak or walnut planks is just as important as the floor you walk on every day. Choosing the right subfloor is crucial for ensuring your hardwood flooring stays strong, stable, and beautiful for decades.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the best subfloors for installing hardwood flooring, their advantages, potential drawbacks, and expert tips to get the most out of your flooring project.

What Is a Subfloor, and Why Does It Matter?

A subfloor is the structural layer beneath your flooring surface. It provides a stable foundation and supports the floor covering above it.
A properly installed and appropriate subfloor helps:

• Prevent sagging or shifting

• Improve structural integrity

• Minimize squeaks and noise

• Protect against moisture damage

Best Subfloors for Hardwood Flooring

Let’s explore the top options recommended by flooring professionals.

1. Plywood Subfloor

Plywood is the gold standard for hardwood or wooden flooring installations. It is durable, dimensionally stable, and relatively affordable.

Why It’s a Great Choice:

• Strength and Stability: Plywood offers strong nail-holding ability, which is essential for securing hardwood planks.

• Smooth Surface: Provides an even base that minimizes issues during installation.

• Moisture Resistance: Plywood resists minor moisture better than some other wood products.

Ideal For:

• Nail-down and staple-down hardwood floors

• Glue-down applications with a moisture barrier

Recommended Specs:

• ¾-inch (19mm) thick tongue-and-groove plywood panels are ideal for most hardwood floors.

Pro Tip:
Always check for any “deflection” (bounce) in your plywood subfloor. Excessive movement can cause gaps or squeaks over time.

Important Consideration:
OSB is more sensitive to moisture compared to plywood. Prolonged exposure to water can cause swelling and delamination. Always use a vapor retarder when installing hardwood over OSB.

3. Concrete Slab

Concrete subfloors are common, especially in condos, basements, and newer construction homes.

Can You Install Hardwood Over Concrete?
Yes—but it requires proper preparation and specialized techniques.

Why Concrete Can Work:

• Durability: Concrete is tough and stable.

• No Structural Movement: Unlike wood, concrete doesn’t expand and contract as much with humidity.

However, You Must:

• Test for Moisture: Moisture is the biggest enemy of hardwood. Excess moisture can cause warping and cupping.

• Level the Surface: Concrete must be flat and free of cracks or bumps.

• Use a Vapor Barrier: Protect your hardwood by installing a moisture barrier over the concrete.

• Choose the Right Installation Method: Floating floors or glue-down engineered hardwood are often better suited for concrete bases than traditional solid hardwood.

Ideal For:

• Engineered hardwood flooring (not always solid hardwood)

4. Existing Hardwood or Wood Subfloors

Believe it or not, you can install new hardwood over existing wood flooring or an older subfloor if it’s still structurally sound.

When This Works:

• The existing floor is level and firmly attached.

• No signs of water damage, rot, or infestation.

• The surface can be prepared (cleaned, sanded if needed).

Installation Methods:

• Nail new flooring perpendicular to the existing planks.

• Use glue-down methods for added stability if required.

Pro Tip:
Always verify floor height to ensure doors, moldings, and transitions aren’t negatively affected.

Special Considerations Before Installing

Regardless of your chosen subfloor, keep these important points in mind:

🔹 Moisture Matters

Hardwood is highly sensitive to moisture changes. Always:

• Use a moisture meter to test both the subfloor and hardwood.

• Ensure subfloor moisture content is within 2-4% of the hardwood’s moisture level.

• Install moisture barriers or vapor retarders where necessary.

🔹 Flatness Is Critical

Subfloors must be flat within 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span. High spots can cause bouncing; low spots can lead to hollow sounds or damage.

Solution:

• Grind down high spots

• Fill low spots with appropriate leveling compounds

🔹 Acclimation Is Non-Negotiable

Hardwood should be acclimated to the installation environment before it’s laid. This minimizes post-installation movement like gapping or warping.

General rule: Let the hardwood sit in the room for at least 5-7 days prior to installation.

Conclusion: The Foundation of Excellence

The beauty and performance of your hardwood flooring start from the ground up.
Choosing a strong, stable, and properly prepared subfloor—whether it’s high-quality plywood, OSB, concrete (with precautions), or even a solid existing floor—makes all the difference.

Remember: no matter how premium your hardwood selection is, it can only perform at its best with the right foundation beneath it.

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