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When you install flooring in your home, a quality subfloor adhesive can make a real difference in ensuring longevity and stability. Read on to learn about the fundamentals of subfloor construction adhesives.
The strength and solidity of floors are essential structural elements of all buildings. When flooring is installed, subfloor adhesive is applied below the panels to secure them at the panel-to-joist connection, which minimizes squeaks and prevents uneven flooring. Subfloor glues must be strong enough to remain durable over time, but they also need to be elastic enough to absorb the regular movement and impact most floors face and cope with potential shrinkage.
If you are looking for a subfloor adhesive with a powerful, permanent bond, try Loctite PL 400 VOC Subfloor & Deck Adhesive. It sets quickly and is ideal for heavy-duty interior or exterior subfloor installation in all types of environmental conditions. That means it even bonds wet and frozen lumber!
When installing floors yourself, be sure to consult your local building codes for requirements such as fastener spacing, size, and type.
Safety first. As with all strong adhesives, take safety precautions when using subfloor glues. That means you need to wear gloves, work in a well-ventilated area, and wash your hands after use.
Work under good conditions. Like most adhesives, subfloor glues work best when used at the right temperature. Check your product specifications to determine the best conditions.
Prepare surfaces and materials. Surfaces to be bonded should be thoroughly cleaned of any dust, grease, particles, or contaminants. Before starting application, pre-fit all materials and panels.
Use a caulking gun to apply the subfloor adhesive. Apply the subfloor glue in a steady flow to joists or studs, moving in a zigzag pattern to ensure all edges are adequately coated.
Apply the subflooring panels. Lower the subflooring panels onto the joists and join surfaces within 15 minutes or the length of time stated if the product instructions, if it is different. If you need to reposition parts, do so within approximately 30 minutes or within the time frame stated in your product information.
Clean-up. Clean tools and any residue immediately with mineral spirits or paint thinner. You can chisel away any unwanted cured subfloor adhesive with a sharp-edged tool; take care not to damage surfaces.
