Subfloor Prep

-What level of subfloor prep is necessary before laying down new tile or hardwood floors? On one house I renovated, I ripped up old carpet myself to reveal beautiful hardwood floors underneath. I was lucky that no subfloor prep was necessary. I was good to go. But how should subfloor be prepped if there is no hardwood floor down there?

-Removing carpet seemed messy but easy. I just pried it up and was left with tacking strips and some staples that I removed. You may remove your carpet to reveal the subfloor, but you might find dozens of staples and other items sticking up out of the subfloor. Should you spend the time removing the staples to make the subfloor perfectly smooth?

-I would definitely ask my floor installer what kind of subfloor prep he or she would prefer. That way, you won't waste the installer's time or yours trying to prep the subfloor in a way that is not suitable for the flooring to be installed.

-This raises a broader issue. Whether it's subfloor prep or any other kind of issue in home remodeling, there is always an expert out there willing to offer advice, particularly if he or she stands a chance of working on your house.

-Good luck with your subfloor prep and happy remodeling!