Is it OK to install bamboo over 5/8" plywood?

My subfloor is 5/8" plywood that was previously nailed and glued to the floor joists. Is this enough to nail down 5/8" bamboo flooring, or do I need to install another layer of plywood. Thanks!

Is it OK to install bamboo over 5/8" plywood?
5/8" ply glued and nailed is a pretty solid substrate, especially since the alternating grain layers in plywood keep it from too much thermal expansion and contraction. Walk all over it and make sure there is no creaking. If you find a creak, screw the plywood down to the closest joist to solve that problem. You may then want to put down a 6mm poly vapor barrier over the plywood if there is not one under the plywood. This will protect your flooring from moisture coming up from underneath. You should follow the manufacturer directions and nail every 8 inches. Every other nail may not hit a joist, but it will still land solid in the plywood making for a more sold floor.
Reply:As long as there isn't any noticeable flex the thickness of the substrate should be ok. If you have access to the joists from underneath you can always check them for issues, and shim.



Have you considered an underlayment?



Bamboo flooring is likely the most durable on the market today, of any flooring, and it's more widely recycleable. Good choice.



Steven Wolf
Reply:Sounds like you get the idea. Yes it would be ok, and this will strengthen your floor as well. I certainly recommend marking your joists first with a snap line so you are sure to hit them. As well it is OK to nail every 8 inches like suggested.
Reply:you should be allright with that - does the floor feel solid when u walk - make sure you get the nails into the joists
Reply:Here is anotehr DIY site that has great pics along his way, though I do not like the fact of the screwing method he used.1. it is more work, 2 More notiable. I would recommend carpet nails 2" 3/16th thick, pre drill, nail %26amp; set it, then putty the hole, which you will hardly notice. Here is the web addy.http://www.hammerzone.com/archives/floor...



You can by rosin paper, reddiah in color to lay ove rhte existing floor, 1 it acts as a vapor barrier %26amp; 2 will help avoid the rubbing of hte wood to avoid future squeks. If you have any now as mention b4 use screws to screw the floor to the joist. Follow the 8' instructions sie the nails are going or staples at an angle u will be fine. $15 hand $40 for air nailers to rent, a air one wopuld be the way to go.
Reply:you can lay bamboo as long as you put vapor paper down first, and yes you can nail between boards, the code is every 6 to 8 inches.

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