You have a plank subfloor and particleboard underlayment. The underlayment can be removed to provide a suitable nailing base directly to the subfloor using cleat nails. This should meet the requirements of most manufacturers. IF you need more depth to the floor, or if deflection is excessive without the underlayment, use a plywood underlayment to replace the particleboard. This gives a good structural nailing base for the wood floor. If you nail down plywood, be sure to nail through to joists and use a ring shank nail. For more security use liquid nails subfloors applied in an S-pattern on the plank subfloor, under the plywood as well.
The particleboard underlayment is easiest to remove by cutting it into sections using a circular saw set to the depth of the particleboard, then using a prybar and hammer. Drive the prybar under the smaller squares, and pop them off, then go back for any nails and glue. Do not cut into the subfloor.
15 lb felt is a good selection of vapor barrier to place under the new finished hardwood floor and will prevent moisture from migrating from the crawlspace. Just roll it out and tack it down with the minimum number of staples possible to hold it in place until the floor is laid. |
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