Found plywood over old hardwood... what should I do

pgalland

I am in the process of renovating my house (1890 victorian).
2 of the bedrooms upstairs currently are carpeted. I tried to remove the carpet to only find out that the old hardwood planks have been covered by a layer of plywood (just put on top - not even nailed).
I am wondering why this is? Am I in for troubles if I remove carpet and plywood to get the old oak wood exposed (which I would sand and varnish).
Thank you
Paul

s_b

its probably to cover gaps between boards
i covered my bathroom floor to make it easier to tile it
lift it by all means

Hintza

As above also uneven boards. Are you prepared for cold feet in the morning and a lot of noise from upstairs?

Jaynne

Its just noisier and colder. Personally we sanded our downstairs except for the kitchen and carpeted upstairs.

Love the look and easy clean of wood but its too cold for upstairs.

olias

After lifting the plywood, you could sand and varnish the boards, but fill the gaps! - either use sawdust from sanding mixed with wood glue, or you can buy shaped shims/slivers to fit. If you are worried about cold feet, put a rug by the bedside and where you get dressed, and a runner in the hallway.

Olias

ed110220

I would lift them to find what condition the floorboards are in. It may be that they put the plywood down because the floorboards are uneven or have been badly hacked about to install plumbing, electrics etc.

pgalland

Always amazed by the quality and the friendliness of the answers on this website. Thanks guys !!