Glossary / Trade talk
Subfloor
Also called: Substrate, Deck
Heard most in: Construction & Contracting, Handyman
The structural surface a finished floor is laid on. Whether it is flat, dry and sound decides most of what happens next: nearly every flooring complaint about lipping, hollow spots or squeaks is a subfloor problem wearing the finish's clothes. It is also the part you cannot inspect properly until the old floor is up, which is what a flooring quote should say out loud.
Related terms
- UnderlaymentA layer that goes between the structure and the finished surface, and which means two different things depending on the trade.
- ContingencyAn amount added to a price to cover what you cannot see yet — the rot behind the siding, the second layer of shingles, the floor that is not level.
- ExclusionsThe list of things your price does not cover, written down on the same document as the price.
Every document in your name, not ours
Quotes, invoices and scheduling for field-service businesses. Your first 14 days are free — your card isn't charged until they end.
Start free trial