How Do I Know If My Subfloor Needs Repair Before Installation?

Think your new floor starts with the first plank? The real story begins beneath the surface. We dig into the make-or-break decisions that determine whether hardwood, luxury vinyl, laminate, tile, or carpet look and feel right for years. From weather-battered subfloors in new builds to hidden surprises during remodels, we lay out how pros diagnose problems, set expectations, and keep your project on track without overspending.

Jason Trim, owner of BPS Southeast, joins us to explain why flat often beats level for most installations, and how a simple straightedge reveals the truth about humps and dips. We talk through real-world examples, including big-room fixes that require dozens of bags of leveling compound, and we share quick at-home checks anyone can try—like paying attention to subtle elevation changes as you walk or watching how a toy car rolls across a room. If you live in an older home, we outline why legacy materials flex more and what that means before you swap carpet for a hard surface.

Moisture is the quiet villain, especially on concrete slabs. Jason breaks down how water pressure can migrate up through porous concrete, causing musty carpet, cupping wood, and failed adhesives. You’ll hear practical strategies: use primers to lock down dust and improve bond strength, add vapor barriers where risk exists, and build smart prep allowances into remodel budgets so surprises don’t derail the plan. We also cover targeted wood subfloor repairs, from grinding seams to cutting out water-damaged areas around bathroom flanges.

If you want floors that feel solid, sound quiet, and stay beautiful, start with what you can’t see: the subfloor. Subscribe for more practical contractor insights, share this with a friend planning a renovation, and leave a review with your biggest flooring question so we can help next.

To learn more about BPS Southeast Flooring visit:
https://www.BPSSoutheast.com
BPS Southeast Flooring
Servicing Rutherford, Polk, Henderson and Cleveland County
828-532-2141