[GlennM515]

Hi I am attempting my first DIY project as a new homeowner - installing 3/4" mahogany floors. I have the old floors torn up, my baseboards have been removed and thankfully I have a nice, thick, plywood sub floor underneath. But without tearning up the plywood I dont know where my studs are.

1. Can I simply nail the hardwoods into the plywood instead of the studs?

2. I purchased some heavy duty roll on roofing paper as my buffer between the sub floor and the hardwoods, is this sufficient?

3. Can I just place a nice, baseboard/trim over the hardwoods, and not use quarter round? The old floors I tore up didnt have any quarter round and they looked just fine.

Any feedback would be really appreciated. Thanks everyone!

 

[BrandConst]

1. Yes
2. No
3. Sure, but it's not going to look good.

 

[woodman58]

1. Can I simply nail the hardwoods into the plywood instead of the studs?

Yes, but you can find the studs by looking to see where the nails are. They will be in a line with the studs.

Yes

3. Can I just place a nice, baseboard/trim over the hardwoods, and not use quarter round? The old floors I tore up didnt have any quarter round and they looked just fine.

Yes, but you need to make sure that you leave at least 3/8 inch (should be 3/4") gap at the walls. If you leave a 3/8" gap you will have to cut out the bottom of the dry wall. to allow for the 3/4" space. Make sure and acclimate the wood.

 

[Bud Cline]

woodman58:>>> "Yes, but you need to make sure that you leave at least 3/8 inch (should be 3/4") gap from the edge of the flooring to the walls. If you leave a 3/8" gap you will have to cut out the bottom of the dry wall. to allow for the 3/4" space. Make sure and acclimate the wood."

Sorry woodman58, I modified your statement a little, I couldn't sleep tonight if I hadn't.

 

[woodman58]

No problem! Thanks Bud

 

[GlennM515]

Thanks everyone, these comments are really helpful!

One follow-up question...if I shouldnt use the roll on roofing as my barrier, what should I place between the subfloor and hardwood?

Thanks!

 

[woodman58]

You can use roofing felt. I use 15#. It is suppose to be a moisture barrier but, it makes a better dust barrier.