Should You Paint Subfloors Before Installing Carpet?

Painting a subfloor is a great way to get a new look for your floor without the cost of new flooring. It is a very budget-friendly option that can be done as a temporary fix while saving for permanent flooring or as a long-term solution. It is also a good way to cover up pet damage and stains.

If you are planning to eventually install permanent flooring, it is important to note that some types of flooring may absorb paint colours and bleed through. Laminate, hardwood, and carpet are usually fine to lay over a painted subfloor, but vinyl and luxury tile may absorb the paint colour.

Painting plywood subfloors

To paint your plywood subfloor, first check the health of your plywood floor. If it is damaged, you will need to replace the damaged parts or opt for another flooring solution. If your plywood is in good condition, you can proceed to the next steps.

Next, remove the carpet. This will expose the tack strips used to hold the carpet in place. If you are lucky, these will only be around the edges of the room and can be easily pulled up. If there are tack strips in the middle of the room, you may need to call in a professional to help.

Once the carpet and tack strips are removed, fill in any large gaps, holes, or cracks with wood filler or putty. Sand down any rough areas and replace any damaged plywood boards. Make sure to clean the floor thoroughly to remove any dirt or dust. Use a vacuum to ensure the floor is clear of debris before painting.

Now, you are ready to start painting. You will need a primer and paint. Use a multi-surface primer first, and then a glossy floor and porch paint. You can use a paintbrush for the perimeter of the room and a roller for the rest of the floor. Allow the primer to dry before applying the paint. It is recommended to apply two coats of paint for durability.

After painting, you can add an area rug to add warmth and comfort to the space, while still showing off your new painted floor.

To maintain your painted plywood floor, regular cleaning with a slightly damp mop and a floor cleaner is recommended.

Removing old flooring

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You will need safety gear, such as protective eyewear, masks, and gloves, as well as tools for removal, such as a staple remover or screwdriver and pliers, a scraper, a putty knife, and a pry bar or chisel. If your flooring is glued down, you may also need a heat gun to loosen the adhesive.

Step 2: Remove Any Obstacles

Clear the floor of any furniture or obstacles. If you are removing carpet, you will need to pull out any staples or nails left behind by the previous installation. This step is important to ensure a smooth surface for your new flooring and to protect your hands and knees from injury.

Step 3: Remove Baseboards

If you have baseboards, you will need to remove them before pulling up the flooring. Mark the back of each piece with its location if you plan to reinstall them. Use a pry bar or chisel to gently pry the baseboards away from the wall. Remove any nails with pliers, and store the baseboards safely if you plan to reuse them.

Step 4: Cut and Tear the Flooring

If your flooring is glued down, start by cutting through the material with a utility knife, about 8-10 inches from the wall, and parallel to it. Cut the centre section into strips to make it easier to manage. Then, use your pry bar or chisel to loosen the edges of the flooring. Work at a comfortable pace and take breaks as needed.

Step 5: Scrape Away Adhesive

Once you have removed the majority of the flooring, you will need to scrape away any remaining adhesive. Use a putty knife to scrape away glue or use a heat gun to soften the adhesive first, making it easier to remove. This step is crucial if you are installing a new floor, as leftover adhesive can void its warranty.

Step 6: Clean and Prepare the Subfloor

After removing the old flooring and adhesive, take the time to clean and prepare the subfloor. Fill in any cracks or gaps, and ensure the surface is smooth and level. If you are painting the subfloor, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint you are using, and allow ample time for drying.

Remember to always follow safety precautions when removing old flooring, especially if your home was built before 1980, as asbestos may be present in the flooring or adhesive. If you suspect asbestos is present, consult a professional for testing and removal.

Preparing the subfloor for paint

Step 1: Remove Old Flooring and Staples

Use tools such as a utility knife, hammer, pry bar, needle-nose pliers, and a flat-head screwdriver to remove old carpeting, padding, and staples. This step ensures a smooth surface for your new paint job.

Step 2: Fill in Seams and Staple Holes

Use a suitable filler, such as DAP Presto Patch Filler, to fill in the seams between boards and any staple holes. This step will create an even base for your paint.

Step 3: Sand the Floor

Use a small orbital sander or a larger belt sander to smooth out any major rough spots and sand any wood filler used. Remember, the goal is to create a smooth and even surface for your paint to adhere to.

Step 4: Prime the Floor

Apply a quality primer to the floor, such as Zinsser Oil-Based Primer, to ensure the paint adheres well and the colour is true. Cut in around the edges of the room with a paintbrush, and then use a roller with an extension handle to cover the rest of the floor. Remember to work from the farthest corner and then work backward to avoid walking on wet paint.

Step 5: Paint the Floor

Choose a suitable paint for your subfloor, such as Valspar Porch and Floor Paint, which comes in a variety of colours. Apply the base colour first, and then you can add a border or stencil for a more decorative finish. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Step 6: Seal the Floor (Optional)

Although not necessary if using porch and floor paint, you may want to apply a sealer for added protection and durability. Choose a water-based sealer like Rust-Oleum Varathane Crystal Clear Water-Based Floor Finish to avoid yellowing over time. Apply several coats for the best results.

Sealing the floor

Step 1: Identify the Type of Subfloor

Before sealing, it is crucial to identify the type of subfloor you have. The sealing process may vary depending on whether you have a concrete or wooden subfloor.

Step 2: Test for Moisture (Concrete Subfloors Only)

If you have a concrete subfloor, it is essential to test for moisture before sealing. You can use a calcium chloride test to determine the moisture vapour emission rate (MVER). This test involves placing a small amount of calcium chloride (salt) under plastic on the concrete for about 72 hours to absorb moisture. If the test result shows a high amount of moisture (over 3 lbs), it is recommended to use a moisture vapour barrier coating.

Step 3: Choose the Right Sealant

Select a sealant suitable for your subfloor type. For concrete subfloors, an epoxy resin or a moisture-mitigating concrete coating is recommended to prevent moisture-related issues like mould and mildew. If your wooden subfloor has minor damage from spills or pets, a primer/sealer can be brushed on to seal in odours and protect the carpet.

Step 4: Prepare the Subfloor

Ensure your subfloor is clean, smooth, and free of any staples, nails, or other debris. Fill any dips or cracks in the subfloor using a self-levelling compound, especially if you have a concrete floor. Allow the compound to dry completely before proceeding.

Step 5: Apply the Sealant

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the sealant. For concrete floors, use a paintbrush or roller to apply an epoxy waterproof sealant. Allow the sealant to dry, and consider adding a second coat for extra protection. For wooden subfloors, brush on a primer/sealer over any damaged areas.

Step 6: Allow Drying Time

Ensure you give the sealant enough time to dry completely. Do not rush this step, as insufficient drying time can impact the effectiveness of the sealant.

By following these steps, you will create a protective barrier that safeguards your new carpet from moisture damage, odours, and imperfections in the subfloor.

Painting the subfloor

To paint your subfloor, you will need to start by removing your old flooring, including any staples or tacks. You should then fill in any holes or gaps in the wood with wood putty or filler, and sand the floor to ensure it is smooth.

The next step is to prime the floor. This is an important step, as it will help the paint last longer. Once the primer is dry, you can start painting the subfloor. You may want to use painter's tape to mark out any borders or patterns you want to create. Allow the paint to dry, and then carefully remove the tape.

Finally, seal the floor with a water-based floor finish. This will make the floor more durable and give it a soft shine.

Frequently asked questions