How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Subfloor?

Subfloor Repair Cost Factors

Any repair or renovation usually comes with a set of factors that alter the potential cost of the project, no matter how big or small it is. The cost of replacing a subfloor is undoubtedly no different. 

Here are some factors that can affect the total cost of your subfloor repair project:

• Material — Subfloors are made of high-performance panels, concrete, plywood, or OSB (oriented strand board). Each material has its costs when it comes to repairing the damage.
• Location — Every area of your home has a subfloor, some of which are more difficult to work with than others. If a subfloor is harder to access, the cost to repair it will be higher.
• Type of repair — Some problems are easier and cheaper to repair. Others, like termite damage, are harder to repair and more expensive. The cost to repair a subfloor depends on the exact nature of the damage.
• Type of solution — A contractor's solution to fix a damaged subfloor can also affect the overall cost of the subfloor repair job. Patching a hole requires a simple solution while fixing water damage is more in-depth. 
• Labor cost — If you choose to make the necessary repairs, your labor cost will be nothing. If you require a professional, however, you can expect the overall cost of the repair to go up.

Subfloor Repair Cost by Type

A big part of subfloor repair cost lies in the exact nature of the damage. Some types of damage, such as a hole, are inexpensive to repair. Damage that requires a more substantial repair job will naturally come with a bigger price tag.

Here is a quick run-down of the different types of repairs, including the cost of fixing them:

• Holes — Repairs average between $150 and $600, depending on both accessibility and the hole size. 
• Cracks — Repairs average between $150 and $600, depending on the size of the crack and the reason for it.
• Joist repair — Repairs average between $200 and $400 for each damaged joist. Damaged joists can be fixed through “sistering,” referring to reinforcing the joists with extra material.
• Squeaks — Repairs average between $200 and $1,000, depending on the reason for the squeak. This problem could result from uneven sections or water damage from a leak.
• Water damage — Repairs average between $250 and $750, depending on the size of the affected area and whether a sealant is needed to prevent further damage.
• Rotted materials — Repairs average between $250 and $1,000, but prices may be higher if the rot has spread to other areas. Rot can result from excess moisture.
• Mold — Repairs average between $350 and $1,300, but prices can be higher if the mold has moved to a larger area. Mold occurs when excess moisture is present.
• Sagging subfloor — Repairs average between $400 and $2,000, depending on the size of the sag and why it happened. Sagging often results from damaged joists.
• Uneven subfloor — Repairs average between $400 and $2,000. As with damaged joists, sistering can remedy the uneven subfloor.
• Termite damage — Repairs average between $500 and $700, but the cost may be significantly higher if the problem isn’t spotted fast enough.

Subfloor Repair Cost by Material

There are four standard material types used in subflooring: high-performance panel, OSB, plywood, and concrete. The cost of repairs to your subfloor depends on what type of material your subfloor is. 

Here are the prices and some of the characteristics of the three material types:

• High-performance panel — Repairs average between $100 and $1,000. High-quality panels have pricing degrees, with some types being more expensive to repair. This subflooring material is popular with new constructions because it offers greater strength. That said, high-performance panels are prone to water damage.
• Oriented Strand Board — Repairs average between $250 and $750. OSB is one of the least expensive material options while offering reasonable strength. The downfall of this material is that it is susceptible to warping and rot.
• Plywood — Repairs average between $250 and $850. Plywood is a common choice for subflooring and is quite strong. This material is easy to work with, but its wood component makes it susceptible to water damage and termites. 
• Concrete — Repairs average between $350 and $1,250. As the most robust subflooring material, problems like rot, mold, and warping won’t be an issue. That said, seal concrete subfloors to prevent moisture from getting in and causing damage.

DIY or Hire a Pro

Many people like to save money by completing a repair project or even a home renovation on their own, and for a good reason: you can save a substantial amount of money by removing the labor factor from the equation. Subfloor repairs can be simple or complicated. The more straightforward repairs, such as patching a small hole or crack, can quickly be done as a DIY project. The more in-depth work, like repairing joists or fixing water damage, requires a flooring contractor. They’ll have the knowledge and the tools necessary to complete the repair efficiently and safely.