Hey everyone! I'm new here and suddenly facing an unexpected project. We discovered a significant leak in our shower, which we've temporarily fixed, but it means we need to tackle the underlying issue soon. Thankfully, we have a tub to use in the meantime.
Currently, we're dealing with some rotten subfloor and plan to start ripping it up this Sunday. I'm reaching out to see if any of you seasoned DIYers can share your insights!
What are some key things you wish you had known when you replaced your subfloor for the first time? If you could rate the difficulty on a scale of 1-10 (for reference, I'd rate building a fence at about a 3), what would you say?
Also, what tools or supplies do you wish you had on hand from the start that made you make last-minute trips to the store? Any general tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
2 Answers
Be ready for the possibility that some damage could extend under a wall. You might need to add blocking, so get a few 2x boards that match your joists. An impact driver with structural screws will help secure everything well. For the old subfloor, cutting it out with a circular saw is ideal, and if it's glued down, a flatbar will really help with removal. Having those tools on hand will save you some headaches!
Replacing subfloor isn't too tricky if you're comfortable measuring and cutting. You'll mainly need a circular saw and some regular demo tools, like a pry bar. Start by cutting out the damaged sections, making sure your cuts align with the joists. When you put the new subfloor in, secure the edges where the old board ends, then screw the new piece down. It's a pretty straightforward task if you have the right tools!
I don't have a circular saw, but I do have an electric one. I'm planning to borrow a crowbar from a friend. Thanks for the tips! Measuring and cutting sounds manageable.
Thanks for the heads-up about the wall! I really appreciate your advice!