Latest Discussions : Flooring & Stairs

04:17AM | 05/13/03

Member Since: 05/12/03
1 lifetime posts

Finishing Subfloor

I have a knotty pine subfloor in the upstairs of my 1939 bungalow. The wood looks beautiful (in a rustic sort of way) and I wanted to know if it is possible to finish it. The problem is that there are large gaps between the planks and I can see some insulation between the gaps. Is there anything I can use to fill the gaps? I am kind of new to all of this so any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Jay J

04:14PM | 05/13/03

Member Since: 10/26/00
782 lifetime posts

Hi pinzolo,

1) Sure, you can refinish the sub-floor. Just be sure of the type of wood it is, and use a high-quality primer to seal the wood (and prevent bleeding.) When you buy a finish paint, use a high-quality acrylic latex paing. DO realize that you're walking on a painted floor. If you think your painted walls take a beating, wait until you see what happens to your floor when you walk on it! (In short, I don't recommend this type of finish for a floor ...)

2) The wood has developed gaps over the years as a result of expansion and contraction. By 'filling' in the gaps, you'll prevent the E and C from occurring on its own and, thus, whatever you use as a filler will begin either popping up from the gaps or cause the floor to buckle (because it can't expand and contract.)

You didn't say what you use to have for a finished floor. If it was carpeting, I'd suggest you stay w/it. It sounds like the floor 'moves' a lot. My best to ya and hope this helps.

Jay J -Moderator

PS: God Bless America!