Removing thinset before putting down underlayment for laminate floor ? - DIY Chatroom

laminate projec · 09-23-2009, 10:55 AM

I'm installing laminate floor in a great room. We removed the ceramic tile that was on the floor but I've tried everything to remove the thinset or cement that is on the plywood floor with no luck. Do I need to remove this before laying the underlayment and then the floor?

**Scuba_Dave** · 09-23-2009, 01:14 PM

Is it extremely bumpy or uneven ?

laminate projec · 09-23-2009, 01:21 PM

the floor is even but yes the thinset is much thicker in some area and down to wood in other areas. I was trying to avoid grinding it unless necessary. Scrapped as much up as i could.

PaliBob · 09-23-2009, 01:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by laminate projec

....... Do I need to remove this before laying the underlayment and then the floor?

Yes
To get the rest of the Thinset off the plywood you will need a mechanical method such as scraping with a floor bully and if needed, finishing with a rental Vibrating Floor sander loaded with 60 grit sandpaper. You need to get the floor smooth without significantly damaging the top layer of the plywood.

Floor Bully e.g. (also at Building Supply houses)
http://www.amazon.com/Floor-Bully-La.../dp/B0000224PU

Vibrating Sander rental e.g.
http://www.homedepotrents.com/toolsc...ng_a_floor.asp
.