Plywood is a durable, economical choice for subfloors and can serve as a finished floor when sanded and sealed. Use thicker panels or a second layer for stiffness and sound control. In wet areas, select water-resistant plywood and install appropriate waterproofing or backer board for tile. Verify product health and sustainability claims through supplier documentation.

Why choose plywood for floors?

Plywood is an economical, strong, and fast way to cover large floor areas. Its cross-laminated construction gives it rigidity under load, so it performs well as a subfloor that reduces bounce when laid on timber joists. Thicker sheets can span wider joist spacing, which can lower material and labor costs on multi-story projects.

Strength, cutting, and installation

Plywood is easy to cut to fit around pipes and other penetrations. Typical installation methods include glue-and-screw or tongue-and-groove edges for tighter seams and less deflection. Leave appropriate expansion gaps at perimeter walls and stagger joints when installing multiple sheets.

A common subfloor thickness for residential work is about 3/4 inch (19 mm), but local practices and engineering requirements vary, so confirm with your building inspector or manufacturer. Add a second layer of plywood if you need extra stiffness, impact resistance, or improved sound transmission loss between floors.

Moisture, wet rooms, and waterproofing

Plywood tolerates short-term exposure and small humidity changes better than some materials, but it is not inherently waterproof. For wet areas such as bathrooms or laundry rooms, use water-resistant or exterior-grade plywood where appropriate and always protect the surface with a moisture barrier and an appropriate finish.

If you plan to install ceramic tile in wet zones, follow industry practice and local code: install a cement backer board or an approved waterproof membrane over the plywood subfloor. For showers and other continuously wet areas, use substrates and assemblies rated for that service.

Finished plywood floors

Plywood can serve as an attractive finished floor when sanded, stained, and sealed. Laying the veneer squares with alternating grain directions can create distinct patterns. Use a durable sealer or finish designed for flooring and follow manufacturer's recommendations for abrasion and moisture resistance.

Alternatively, plywood is an excellent underlayment for carpet, vinyl, hardwood, or tile. For floating floor systems or engineered wood, follow the flooring manufacturer's installation guidelines for underlayment and subfloor preparation.

Sustainability and health considerations

If emissions or environmental sourcing matter to you, look for plywood labeled for low formaldehyde emissions and responsibly harvested wood (for example, chain-of-custody certification). Check product labels and supplier documentation for current compliance information.

Quick tips

  • Fasten sheets with screws and adhesive where required for a firm attachment.
  • Stagger seams and orient sheets perpendicular to joists when possible.
  • Use an appropriate underlayment and/or backer board for tile.
  • Consult local code or an inspector for required thickness and fastening schedules on structural floors.
Plywood remains a practical choice for both subfloor systems and creative finished floors when installed and protected correctly.

FAQs about Plywood Flooring

Can I use plywood directly under ceramic tile?
You should not rely on plywood alone for tile in wet areas. Install a cement backer board or an approved waterproof membrane over the plywood subfloor before tiling, and follow tile manufacturer guidelines and local codes.
What thickness of plywood is typical for a residential subfloor?
A commonly used thickness is about 3/4 inch (19 mm), but required thickness depends on joist spacing and load. Check local building practices or ask an inspector for site-specific requirements.
Is plywood suitable as a finished floor?
Yes. Plywood can be sanded, stained, and sealed for a finished look. Use a durable flooring finish and proper surface preparation to protect against wear and moisture.
How can I improve sound insulation with plywood floors?
Adding a second layer of plywood increases mass and stiffness, reducing impact noise. Use resilient channels, underlayment, or insulation between joists for additional airborne and impact sound control, per product and code guidance.

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