Installing hardwood flooring over particleboard.

Particle board was widely used in the 70’s and 80’s mainly to get carpet and tile flush with 3/4″ hardwood flooring. It is often found under carpet that is soon to be removed for solid wood flooring installation. Installing wood flooring over particle board is an equation for failure. Particle board is not a recommended substrate by the wood flooring industry, and manufacturers will void the warranty of their product if failure does occur. Particle board does not hold nails well, will blister if exposed to any water, and will usually result in squeaky areas as the flooring staples loosen themselves.
We recommend the removal of particle board and replacement of OSB or CDX plywood to ensure the logevity of your new wood floor and protect your investment.