I am planning to install bamboo in my living room (5/8" x 3-3/4" x 3') over approximately 380 square feet.
After pulling up the old carpet I discovered a layer of "concrete" over my subfloor. After some internet research I am guessing this is gypcrete or something similar.
I live in an upstairs condo so I assume it was used for sound and fire protection (although I think it fails miserably as a soundproofing material). My HOA does allow hardwood floor installation so that is not an issue.
I also believe the stuff over the subfloor may be a code requirement so I do not want to remove it.
In an effort to be a good neighbor I would like to put cork underlayment under the bamboo. The bamboo is approved for glue down and staple down installation only (not floating).
I have several questions:
1. Should I assume this material is gypcrete? What else could it be? How do I determine that it is gypcrete?
2. Assuming its gypcrete, how should I repair scratches/dents etc?
3. Assuming I have to keep the gypcrete due to code how can I install the cork and bamboo?
I know the ideal option is to put plywood on top of the gypcrete, but that will create too much height and will make transitions at my sliding door and fireplace look awful. I will also have door height problems at four locations.
I know that my best bet may be to get someone to install it for me, but I would like to explore all other options first.
Any and all advice is appreciated.
After pulling up the old carpet I discovered a layer of "concrete" over my subfloor. After some internet research I am guessing this is gypcrete or something similar.
I live in an upstairs condo so I assume it was used for sound and fire protection (although I think it fails miserably as a soundproofing material). My HOA does allow hardwood floor installation so that is not an issue.
I also believe the stuff over the subfloor may be a code requirement so I do not want to remove it.
In an effort to be a good neighbor I would like to put cork underlayment under the bamboo. The bamboo is approved for glue down and staple down installation only (not floating).
I have several questions:
1. Should I assume this material is gypcrete? What else could it be? How do I determine that it is gypcrete?
2. Assuming its gypcrete, how should I repair scratches/dents etc?
3. Assuming I have to keep the gypcrete due to code how can I install the cork and bamboo?
I know the ideal option is to put plywood on top of the gypcrete, but that will create too much height and will make transitions at my sliding door and fireplace look awful. I will also have door height problems at four locations.
I know that my best bet may be to get someone to install it for me, but I would like to explore all other options first.
Any and all advice is appreciated.