What is Floor Preparation?
Floor preparation is a crucial first step before installing any timber flooring. A properly prepared subfloor ensures a smooth, secure, and long-lasting flooring installation.
It involves cleaning, levelling, and checking moisture to meet Australian Standards.
- Increases lifespan of flooring
- Ensures smooth, even surface
- Prevents moisture-related issues
Installation Methods & Floor Preparation
Learn how floating and direct stick methods require specific subfloor preparation for smooth, lasting installation.
Floating Floor Installation
How to Install:
Direct Stick Installation
How to Install:
Why Floor Preparation Matters
Engineered timber is more stable than solid hardwood, but it still needs a flat, clean, and dry subfloor to perform its best. Poor subfloor conditions can cause issues such as:
Squeaking or movement underfoot
Uneven boards and visible gaps
Moisture damage and cupping
Reduced lifespan of your flooring
Our preparation ensures that your subfloor meets all requirements for your chosen installation method—whether it’s floating, direct stick, or over underlay.
Types of Subfloors We Prepare
Different subfloor materials need different preparation methods. Our team is experienced in working with:
Concrete Slabs
Checked for flatness and moisture
Grinding to remove high spots
Levelling compounds applied if necessary
Moisture barriers installed if readings are too high
Timber Flooring or Sheet Flooring
Securing loose boards or panels
Sanding and cleaning
Fixing any squeaks or movement
Checking for rot or damage
Tiled Surfaces
Removal of loose tiles
Thorough cleaning and priming
Skim-coat levelling to smooth surface
Comparison Table: Before vs After Preparation
| Feature | Before Preparation | After Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Level Surface | Uneven, with high/low spots | Smooth, flat, and level |
| Adhesion | Weak bond, risk of failure | Strong grip for adhesives |
| Moisture Resistance | Vulnerable to rising damp | Protected with moisture barrier |
| Installation Time | Delays and rework likely | Installation-ready surface |
Our Floor Preparation Process
Our process follows Australian industry standards and is tailored to your floor type and installation needs.
Site Inspection & Assessment
We inspect the entire subfloor to check flatness, moisture levels, and structural condition.
Cleaning & Clearing
All debris, adhesives, oils, and contaminants are removed to create a clean bonding surface.
Levelling
Low areas are filled with self-levelling compound. High spots are ground down for evenness. We ensure your floor is within 3mm variation over 3 metres, as required.
Moisture Protection
If your subfloor shows signs of excessive moisture, we apply professional-grade moisture barriers or sealers before any timber is laid.
Final Readiness Check
We double-check all areas for smoothness, dryness, and readiness for flooring installation.
Benefits of Professional Floor Preparation
- Ensures long-term performance of engineered timber
- Prevents premature wear and movement
- Improves acoustic and insulation performance
- Supports manufacturer warranty compliance
- Reduces installation time and surprises
Frequently Asked Questions
Is floor preparation really necessary?
Yes—engineered timber must be installed over a sound, flat, and dry base. Skipping this step can lead to failure of the floor.
Can you install over existing tiles or floorboards?
In many cases, yes. We’ll assess the condition and advise whether removal or treatment is needed.
How long does preparation take?
Usually 1–2 days depending on the size and condition of the subfloor.
Do you test for moisture?
Absolutely. We use moisture meters and visual checks to ensure compliance before continuing.
