If you’re tired of not being able to walk around your room without risking a nasty stubbed toe, then it may be time to raise the floor height. Raising the height of a floor can be a daunting and expensive task, but with the right knowledge and tools, it doesn’t have to be. Over time, floors can settle and hardwood floors can become warped with changes in humidity and temperature that lead to the nail heads becoming disconnected.
This can cause drastic dips in already low areas or worse – complete breaks! Thankfully, there’s no need to worry – raising your floor height is easier than you think. In this blog post, we’ll discuss ways on how to raise floor height up so that you don’t have any more flat spots or tripping hazards in your living space ever again. From choosing the best materials to learning what safety measures you should take while working on your project, this guide will cover all aspects of raising a floor so that you can create an elevated living space that meets all of your needs.
Why Do You Need to Raise Floor Height?
1. Energy-Efficient
There are several reasons why raising the height of your floor is beneficial. Increasing the elevation can help improve energy efficiency by creating a buffer between cold air and warm air in winter months. It can also help to reduce noise transmission, making it easier for you to enjoy an uninterrupted night’s sleep. Plus, adding extra millimeters of space allows you to effectively install larger baseboard trim and even add extra insulation for additional sound absorption.
2. Updated Look and Feel
In addition to improved energy efficiency, raising your floor height also gives your living space a much-needed update in terms of look and feel. By adding millimeters or inches of extra elevation, you’re able to add texture and interesting details to your room that will make it look more modern and inviting. Plus, raising the floor height is a great opportunity to finally add those wood floors you’ve been dreaming of for years!
3. Safety
Finally, one of the most important reasons to raise the height of your floor is safety. Installing taller floors eliminates tripping hazards that are common in low-lying areas and can help to prevent accidents. Raising your floor height is especially beneficial if you have children or elderly relatives living with you, as it will make the space safer for everyone.
Materials Needed to Raise Floor Height
1. Lumber
The most common material used to raise the floor height is lumber, which comes in a variety of lengths and widths to suit your needs. You’ll need enough lumber to cover the area of the room you plan on raising the level of, plus an additional few feet for added support. It’s important to use high-quality lumber that has been treated with moisture-resistant chemicals to prevent warping over time.
2. Nails and Screws
You’ll need to use nails or screws when attaching the lumber to your subfloor. Nails are the most common way of securing the wood, but if you’re looking for a more secure option, then using screws is advised. Just be sure that you’re using the right types of nails or screws for your floor type.
3. Adhesive
In addition to lumber and nails/screws, adhesive is also helpful when raising the height of a floor. Adhesive helps to create an extra-secure bond between the wood and subfloor, making it less likely for the lumber to shift over time. Just be sure that you’re using an adhesive that is suitable for your floor type.
10 Ways How to Raise Floor Height
1. Prepare the Subfloor
The first step in raising your floor height is to prepare the subfloor. This includes ensuring that any protruding nails, screws, or pieces of debris have been removed. Additionally, make sure the subfloor is clean and dry before beginning your project.
2. Create a Template
Once the subfloor is prepped, you can create a template to ensure that all pieces of lumber are cut to size. To do this, measure out the area you plan on raising the level of and draw out a template on the subfloor with a pencil.
3. Cut Lumber to Size
Using the template you created in step two, cut your lumber pieces to fit the shape and size of your room. Be sure to use a saw that is suitable for cutting wood, as this will help ensure clean cuts.
4. Install the Lumber
Once your pieces of lumber have been cut to size, it’s time to install them on the subfloor. To do this, use nails or screws to attach each piece of wood securely in place. Be sure to leave at least a 1/4” gap between each board for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
5. Secure with Adhesive
In order to create a more secure bond between the lumber and subfloor, use adhesive to help hold them in place. Be sure to use an adhesive that is suitable for your floor type. Securing the boards in this way will help prevent them from shifting over time.
6. Check for Level
Once all of your pieces of lumber have been secured to the subfloor, take a level and check that each board is flush with one other. If you notice any areas that are not flush or level, then use shims to adjust until it meets the desired level.
7. Fill Gaps with Caulk
To prevent any dust, insects, or debris from getting between the boards, fill any gaps with caulk. This will also help to create a more finished look in your space. Also, be sure to use caulking that is designed for your floor type.
8. Apply Finish
Next, apply the finish of your choice to the boards. This can range from polyurethane or oil-based finishes to latex paint or even stain if desired. Be sure to allow ample time for the finish to dry before continuing on to the next step.
9. Install Trim
Once the finish has dried, you can then install baseboard trim around the perimeter of the room. This will help to create a seamless transition between the floor and wall, as well as hide any gaps between boards that may still exist after caulking.
10. Enjoy Your New Elevated Floor
Once all of the steps have been completed, you can finally enjoy your new elevated floor. Whether this was done to increase energy efficiency or simply for aesthetic purposes, you’ll be sure to love the end result.
Raising the height of your floor is a great way to give your living space an updated look and feel, as well as improve energy efficiency and safety. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily raise your floor height without too much effort! Just remember to measure twice and cut once, and always keep in mind the materials you’ll need for this project.
5 Safety Precautions to Take When Raising Floor Height
1. Wear Protective Gear
Always wear safety goggles, gloves, and other protective gear when handling lumber or any sharp tools. This will help to ensure that you don’t injure yourself while working on the project. Otherwise, you could end up with serious cuts or other injuries that could have been easily avoided.
2. Check the Subfloor for Damage
Before beginning your project, inspect the subfloor for any signs of damage, such as rot or warping. If the subfloor is in poor condition, it may be best to replace it before raising the height of the floor.
3. Read the Safety Instructions on Power Tools
If you are using power tools for this project, then be sure to read and follow all of the safety instructions that come with them. This includes wearing protective gear, unplugging the tool when not used, and keeping it out of reach of children or pets.
4. Secure the Lumber with Adhesive
To create a more secure bond between the lumber and subfloor, use adhesive to help hold them in place. Be sure to use an adhesive that is suitable for your floor type. Securing the boards in this way will help prevent them from shifting over time.
5. Check for Level
Once all of your pieces of lumber have been secured to the subfloor, take a level and check that each board is flush with one other. If you notice any areas that are not flush or level, then use shims to adjust until it meets the desired level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when your floors just need that extra bit of lift, raising the height is an efficient and effective way to do so. By properly assessing the needs of your project, using proven and reliable methods to raise the height of the floor, and relying on professional services or tips and advice from experienced DIYers, you can all make raising floor height more manageable. It should come as no surprise that although it’s a complex task, with proper guidance on how to raise floor height and assistance, you’ll achieve satisfactory results.
So go ahead – don’t wait until it’s too late; tackling this project sooner rather than later will help prevent any further issues related to raising floor heights in the future. And remember – if you have any questions along the way, consult with a professional who specializes in this area to ensure you get the optimal outcome for your specific needs. So what are you waiting for? Give yourself a head start today on achieving higher floors effortlessly!