How to Prepare Subfloor for Tile (Step-by-Step DIY Guide)

how to prepare subfloor for tile installation properly

To prepare a subfloor for tile installation, inspect the surface for damage, secure loose panels, test for moisture, level uneven areas, install cement board or an uncoupling membrane, and clean thoroughly before applying thinset. It’s easy to underestimate the importance of subfloor prep when you’re excited to start laying tile. I’ve been there. On one … Read more

Best Plywood for Bathroom Walls, Subfloors & Vanities

Plywood is ideal for bathrooms because of its strength, moisture resistance, and adaptability to any residential construction project. Choosing the best plywood for bathrooms depends on what you’re building, how strong you need the surface to be, and the finish you’d like to achieve.  You can use plywood to build a bathroom vanity, construct decorative … Read more

DIY Guide to Tongue and Groove Plywood Floors

Stack of tongue and groove plywood panels with interlocking edges for flooring and construction use. Caption: Close-up of tongue and groove plywood sheets ready for installation.

The first time I stepped on a subfloor made with tongue-and-groove plywood, I immediately noticed the difference. The boards didn’t creak, flex, or shift underfoot—they felt as if the entire floor was one solid piece. That’s the quiet strength of tongue and groove plywood, a small design detail that makes a big difference in how … Read more

Chipboard vs Plywood: Strength, Weight, Price & Uses

Side-by-side view of chipboard and plywood boards labeled for comparison, showing the difference in grain, texture, and color.

Plywood is a term used to describe all types of wood for residential construction projects, but, despite the different types available, it’s not the same as chipboard. Both chipboard and plywood use various materials and undergo different construction processes. This impacts the core density, load-bearing capacity, appearance, moisture resistance, and overall finish.  Choosing the best … Read more

Luan vs Baltic Birch: Which Plywood Is Better?

“Luan and Baltic Birch plywood sheets side by side on a workbench under natural light”

If you’ve ever compared Luan vs Baltic Birch plywood at your local hardware store, you know they look similar but perform very differently once you start cutting. Luan and Baltic birch stacked on the racks — two plywood types that look similar at first glance but behave completely differently once you start cutting. I’ve used … Read more