How to prepare cement basement floor before putting sub floor down?

We have a 1920's home that cuts water in one part!!! We are about to start putting the waffle sub floor down but are at a loss what to do other then wash the cement?????

  4 answers
  • Is the floor sealed? I would do that after cleaning.

  • William William on Mar 01, 2019

    I agree with Naomie. I would seal the floor after washing. This would prevent any future flaking or spalling that can clog the waffle subfloor.

  • Seth Seth on Mar 01, 2019

    Mary Anne,

    Check the installation instructions of the type of sub floor you plan on using. Sealing the floor is not always necessary and is an added step and expense. If your floor tends to be moist or you have any radon concerns, then using something like Radon Seal might be worthwhile. Also, many floors recommend putting down a layer of landscape fabric to prevent the waffle material from clicking as you walk on it.

  • If you’re getting water in one part, you’ll need to resolve that first before you do any flooring otherwise it’ll be ruined in no time.