How to fasten 1/2" Plywood underlayment

Nov 02, 2016 6 Replies

Most people use 1/4" plywood or masonite for underlayment. However I have a floor made out of only one layer of 3/4" plywood, so it needs more strength. I've decided to use 1/2" plywood.



I have a hand driven stapler made to fasten down 1/4" underlayment. But the staples are a max of 7/8 inch. I dont think that is long enough for



1/2" ply.

I know that underlayment needs to be fastened with little spacing between fastners, especially at the edges. (I will be putting vinyl linoleum on top).



Should I just use ring nails? Or are there some sort of screws? I probably could rent a stapler that has longer staples, but this is just a hallway and small bathroom, and is about 3 1/2 sheets of plywood. Not worth renting something. I have also thought about using construction adhesive before applying the nails or screws.



What is recommended for this sort of thing?



Starting with 3 Quarter? I see nothing wrong with 1q if just wanting to smooth/level it out. Nail away every 3 inch. Why the exrta 1/4?

Stay away from vinyl over ring nails!! After a few years of looking good you will see a raised bump over 50% of the nails. I've seen too many houses with that problem, including mine.

So, what should I use then? Maybe drywall screws??????

Most homes have a sub floor. I dont, just the 3/4" pluwood. That's why I am using the extra 1/4". Plus, I want treated plywood around the toilet and tub, and could not find 1/4" treated ply. Either they dont make it, or it's special order only. The treated 1/2" was on sale. I was gonna only use it by the toilet and tub, and use regular 1/2" for the hallway, but since the treated was on sale, I'm using it for everything.

You need one of these and some 8 penny ring shank nails.

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If nails print through, screws will too. Maybe just glue it down with construction adhesive if you are worried about it. I don't have any vinyl so I have no experience with it. That stuff is not very popular here in houses that don't come in on wheels.

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