Red Seal Floorcovering Installer Practice Exam

The most suitable type of subfloor for floating floor installations is one that is stable and level, typically made of concrete or plywood. This is crucial because floating floors require a firm and even surface to properly support the flooring material and allow for the expected expansion and contraction that occurs with temperature and humidity changes. Concrete and plywood meet these criteria well, providing the necessary stability and levelness to prevent issues such as warping or uneven surfaces over time.

Using a sandy or gravel subfloor would be problematic, as it lacks the stability required for a floating floor. Softwood subfloors may not provide the same level of support and can be too flexible, leading to potential movement and noise underfoot. A subfloor with insulation, while beneficial for thermal comfort, doesn’t ensure the necessary firmness and levelness required for floating floor installations, which can result in uneven wear or damage to the flooring material itself. Therefore, a stable and level subfloor made of concrete or plywood is the ideal choice for ensuring the longevity and performance of floating floors.