Glossary · General construction

Subfloor

Definition

The structural sheet material (plywood or OSB) fastened over floor joists that everything else — underlayment and finish flooring — is built on. Squeaks and unevenness usually start here.

Source: Wikipedia — Subfloor

Where this comes up on this site

  • Joist

    One of the repetitive horizontal members that support a floor or ceiling, spanning between beams or walls. Joist size, spacing, and direc…

  • Plywood

    An engineered panel of thin wood veneers glued in cross-grain layers for strength and stability. Preferred over OSB for cabinet boxes and…

  • Submittal

    Product data, samples, or shop drawings the contractor submits for approval before ordering or installing, confirming what will actually…

  • Subcontractor

    A specialized trade (electrician, plumber, tile setter) hired by the general contractor to perform a portion of the work. You contract wi…

  • Superintendent

    The on-site supervisor who runs the field operation — directing crews, sequencing trades, and enforcing safety and quality at the job site.

  • Stud

    A vertical framing member in a wall (typically 2x4 or 2x6) spaced 16 or 24 inches on center, forming the structure to which sheathing and…

  • Takeoff

    The process of measuring quantities of materials and labor from the drawings to build an estimate. Accurate takeoffs are the foundation o…

  • Stop-Work Order

    An official order halting construction, usually for working without a permit or a code/safety violation. Work cannot resume until the iss…

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