5/8 vs 3/4 Plywood for Subfloor: Which is Better?

When it comes to subflooring, plywood is the go-to material for most builders and contractors. Plywood subfloors provide a sturdy and reliable base for finished flooring materials such as carpet, tile, or hardwood. However, choosing the right plywood thickness can be a challenging task, especially for DIY enthusiasts who are new to the construction world. In this article, I will discuss the differences between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood for subflooring and help you choose the best option for your project.

Understanding the factors that affect plywood subfloor choice is crucial in making an informed decision. The thickness of the plywood, the type of wood used, and the quality of the material all play a role in determining the suitability of the subfloor for different applications. Additionally, the installation process and the expected performance of the subfloor under different loads and foot traffic levels should also be considered. In the next sections, I will compare 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood in terms of their installation, performance, and cost, to help you make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• Plywood is a popular choice for subflooring due to its durability and strength.
• Choosing the right plywood thickness for your subfloor depends on several factors, including expected foot traffic, installation process, and budget.
• While 3/4 inch plywood is thicker and more durable than 5/8 inch plywood, it may not be necessary for areas with light foot traffic.

Understanding Plywood Subflooring

As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the basics of subflooring. The subfloor is the layer of material that sits directly on top of the floor joists and provides a base for the finished flooring. Plywood is a popular choice for subflooring due to its strength and durability. In this section, I will discuss plywood subflooring and the factors that affect its performance.

Plywood Thickness and Types

Plywood comes in various thicknesses and types. The two most common thicknesses for subflooring are 5/8″ and 3/4″. While 5/8″ plywood is thinner than 3/4″, it still offers sufficient strength and durability for most subflooring applications. However, if you’re looking for maximum stability and support, 3/4″ plywood may be the better option. It’s important to note that the thickness of the plywood is not the only factor that affects its performance. The type of plywood is also important. Plywood is classified by its grade and type. The grade refers to the quality of the plywood, while the type refers to the species of wood used to make the plywood.

Subflooring Functions and Materials

The subfloor serves several functions, including providing a level surface for the finished flooring, distributing the weight of the flooring and furniture evenly across the floor joists, and acting as a barrier to moisture and pests. The materials used for subflooring can vary depending on the local building code and climate. In some areas, OSB (oriented strand board) is a popular alternative to plywood. However, plywood is generally considered to be a more durable and reliable option.

Local Building Codes and Standards

Before installing a subfloor, it’s important to check the local building codes and standards. These codes and standards dictate the minimum requirements for subflooring thickness, type, and installation. Failure to comply with these codes and standards can result in structural issues and safety hazards. Additionally, some building codes require the use of tongue-and-groove plywood for subflooring. Tongue-and-groove plywood has interlocking edges that provide additional strength and stability.

In summary, plywood subflooring is a popular choice for its strength and durability. The thickness and type of plywood used for subflooring can affect its performance. It’s important to consider the local building codes and standards when selecting and installing subflooring materials.

Factors Affecting Plywood Subfloor Choice

When choosing between 5/8 vs 3/4 plywood for subfloor, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important factors that affect the choice of plywood subfloor.

Room Usage and Traffic

The first factor to consider is the intended usage of the room and the amount of foot traffic it will receive. For high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and living rooms, a thicker 3/4 plywood subfloor is recommended to provide better durability and strength. However, for low-traffic areas such as bedrooms and closets, a thinner 5/8 plywood subfloor may suffice.

Joist Spacing and Load-Bearing Capacity

The spacing of the floor joists and their load-bearing capacity are also important factors to consider when choosing between 5/8 vs 3/4 plywood for subfloor. If the joists are spaced farther apart, a thicker 3/4 plywood subfloor may be necessary to provide adequate support and prevent sagging. Similarly, if the subfloor will be supporting heavy loads such as furniture or appliances, a thicker subfloor may be necessary.

Moisture and Environmental Considerations

Moisture and environmental factors such as humidity levels and temperature can also affect the choice of plywood subfloor. If the subfloor will be installed in a damp or humid environment such as a basement or bathroom, a moisture-resistant plywood subfloor such as marine-grade plywood may be necessary. Additionally, if the subfloor will be exposed to extreme temperature changes, a thicker 3/4 plywood subfloor may be necessary to prevent warping and buckling.

Overall, the choice between 5/8 vs 3/4 plywood for subfloor depends on several factors such as room usage, joist spacing, load-bearing capacity, and environmental considerations. By considering these factors, you can choose the right plywood subfloor that provides the necessary strength, durability, and support for your flooring system.

Installation and Performance

When it comes to installing subflooring, both 5/8 and 3/4 plywood options are relatively easy to work with. However, the installation process and underlayment requirements may differ slightly between the two.

Installation Process and Underlayment

According to my research, both 5/8 and 3/4 plywood can be installed using a similar process. However, it is recommended to use an underlayment material such as felt paper or rosin paper to provide a moisture barrier and prevent squeaking. It is also important to ensure that the subfloor is level and free of any debris before installation.

Durability and Stability

When it comes to durability and stability, 3/4 plywood is generally considered to be more stable and less prone to sagging than 5/8 plywood. This is because of its thicker composition, which provides added strength and support. However, both options can be suitable for subflooring depending on the specific needs of your project.

Insulation and Heat Considerations

Another factor to consider when choosing between 5/8 and 3/4 plywood for subflooring is insulation and heat considerations. According to Journeyman HQ, thicker plywood can provide better insulation and help to keep your home warmer in the winter. However, if you live in a warmer climate, a thinner plywood option may be more appropriate.

In conclusion, both 5/8 and 3/4 plywood can be suitable options for subflooring depending on your specific needs. While 3/4 plywood is generally considered to be more durable and stable, 5/8 plywood can be a more affordable option for those on a tight budget. Ultimately, it is important to consider factors such as installation process, underlayment requirements, durability, stability, insulation, and heat considerations to determine which option is best for your project.

Comparing 5/8 and 3/4 Inch Plywood

When it comes to choosing between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood for subfloor, there are several factors to consider. In this section, I will compare the strength and stability differences, budget considerations and thickness, as well as the pros and cons for flooring types.

Strength and Stability Differences

The main difference between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood is their thickness. According to WoodworkingToolsHQ, 3/4 inch plywood is thicker and more durable than 5/8 inch plywood. It can hold up better under heavy loads, whether that’s furniture or foot traffic. If you’re planning on putting down a heavy stone tile or hardwood floor, a 3/4 inch subfloor might be your better bet.

Budget Considerations and Thickness

While 3/4 inch plywood is thicker and more durable than 5/8 inch plywood, it is also more expensive. According to TopChooser, 5/8 inch plywood is more affordable than 3/4 inch plywood. It is also easier to handle and install, making it a suitable option for areas with light foot traffic.

Pros and Cons for Flooring Types

When it comes to choosing between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood for subfloor, it is important to consider the type of flooring you plan to install. According to Forever Architect, 5/8 inch plywood is suitable for most subflooring applications and offers sufficient strength and durability. However, if you’re looking for maximum stability and support, 3/4 inch plywood may be the better option.

In conclusion, the choice between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood for subfloor depends on several factors, including budget, flooring type, and desired level of strength and stability. While 3/4 inch plywood is thicker and more durable, it is also more expensive. 5/8 inch plywood is more affordable and easier to handle and install, making it a suitable option for areas with light foot traffic.

Final Recommendations and Best Practices

Based on my research and personal experience, I would recommend using 3/4 plywood for subflooring in most cases. While 5/8 plywood may be suitable for areas with light foot traffic such as bedrooms or closets, it is not as strong or durable as 3/4 plywood and may not hold up as well in high-traffic areas. Additionally, 3/4 plywood is a better thickness choice when the joist spacing of the floor is greater than 16 inches.

When choosing between 5/8 and 3/4 plywood for subfloor, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. While 5/8 plywood is more affordable and easier to handle and install, it is less strong and durable than 3/4 plywood. On the other hand, 3/4 plywood is stronger and more durable, but it is also heavier and more difficult to handle and install.

If you are planning a DIY subflooring project, it is important to follow safety guidelines and use the proper tools and equipment. Always wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses, and use a saw blade with the correct number of teeth for the type of plywood you are cutting. Additionally, be sure to choose a high-quality plywood with a good rating for subflooring.

In summary, when choosing between 5/8 and 3/4 plywood for subfloor, it is important to consider your specific needs and the advantages and disadvantages of each option. For most subflooring projects, I would recommend using 3/4 plywood for its strength and durability. However, if you are on a tight budget or working in an area with light foot traffic, 5/8 plywood may be a suitable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cost implications of choosing between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood for a subfloor?

The cost difference between 5/8 and 3/4 inch plywood for subflooring is typically not significant. However, 3/4 inch plywood is generally more expensive than 5/8 inch plywood.

What thickness of plywood does building code typically require for subflooring?

Building codes typically require a minimum thickness of 5/8 inch plywood for subflooring. However, local building codes may vary, so it is important to check with your local building department for specific requirements.

What is the minimum recommended thickness for plywood used in subfloor applications?

The minimum recommended thickness for plywood used in subfloor applications is 5/8 inch. Thinner plywood may not provide adequate support and stability for the flooring above.

Which thickness of plywood is generally considered the best for flooring purposes?

For flooring purposes, 3/4 inch plywood is generally considered the best thickness. It provides a strong and stable base for a variety of flooring types and can withstand heavy foot traffic.

Is 3/4 inch plywood a suitable choice for subfloor installation?

Yes, 3/4 inch plywood is a suitable choice for subfloor installation. It provides a strong and stable base for a variety of flooring types and can withstand heavy foot traffic. However, it may be more expensive than 5/8 inch plywood.

Can 5/8 inch OSB be effectively used as a subfloor material?

Yes, 5/8 inch OSB (oriented strand board) can be effectively used as a subfloor material. However, plywood is generally considered to be a better choice because it is stronger and more stable than OSB.