Why Do Level Subfloors Matter, and What Is Considered ‘Level’?

Bamboo flooring is made out of interlocking boards that float on top of an under layer, or vapor barrier, that acts as a cushioning layer between your bamboo boards and the previously existing concrete, tile, or wood flooring. This thin foam pad can sometimes correct for slight imperfections and dips in the existing floor in order to stabilize your bamboo, but on its own, it can’t correct for large patches of unevenness.

Having a level surface for your bamboo floor is essential in order to not put undue pressure on the tongue and groove connection points; if these edges are floating over uneven flooring dips, the grooves can crack over time and the boards will crack with them. Or, if your existing floor has humps where the surface rises, the connecting edges can start to slip apart and fully separate.

When you’re putting down your underlayer, carefully measure the subfloor to ensure that there are no sharp dips or humps and that the floor is flat to within 3/16″ over a ten-foot radius. This is the maximum of flatness deviation recommended for long-lasting floors, and you should pay particular care when measuring near high-traffic areas for patches that come close to that limit. If you do find imperfections and uneven points, they will need to be prepared prior to installing the bamboo floor.

Go to First US Floors for more installation tips and a wide selection of bamboo flooring. Our experts can measure your floors for an accurate estimate and find the best styles for your home’s color palette.