How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Subfloor? (2025)

In one of our recent articles, we discussed what a subfloor is and the other layers that are beneath your floors. However, understanding the cost involved is equally important if you plan to replace your subflooring. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we have been offering high-quality floor remodeling services in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas in Pennsylvania for a long time now. 

In this article, we will walk you through the cost of replacing a subfloor and other related things that you should know about as a homeowner.

What is the General Cost to Replace a Subfloor in 2025?

Starting directly with today's topic, generally, you can expect to spend anywhere between $900 to $3,000 as the cost to replace a subfloor in 2025. 

While this is just a range, your exact cost to replace a subfloor may be higher or lower based on some important things.

Here in Pittsburgh, homeowners spend around $1,100 on average for subfloor replacement, though costs can vary quite a bit based on the specifics of your project. Don't worry, we will discuss these factors in the next section.

What Are The Common Things That Affect The Cost Of Subfloor Replacement?

So, as we mentioned in the previous section, there are a few important things that directly affect the cost of replacing subfloors. Understanding these factors will help you plan your subfloor replacement project and budget accordingly.

#1 Room Size and Square Footage

The size of the area where you need to replace the subfloor is one of the biggest factors that affect your total cost.

Just like any other flooring project, subfloor replacement costs are generally calculated per square foot. In 2025, you can expect to pay between $2 to $5 per square foot for most subfloor replacement projects.

Here is what this means for different room sizes:

👉 A full bathroom (50 square feet): $100 to $250

👉 Average bedroom (150 square feet): $300 to $750

👉 Large living room (300 square feet): $600 to $1,500

👉 Full basement (1,000 square feet): $2,000 to $5,000

Here in Pittsburgh, most homeowners end up spending around $3 to $10 per square foot when all costs are included. This is because the total square footage affects not just the material costs but also the labor time and complexity of the job.

#2 Choice of Subfloor Material

The type of subfloor material you choose has a huge impact on your total subfloor replacement cost. 

While it may be easy to just go with the cheapest option, it's important to choose a material that's right for your specific needs. Here's a detailed look at different subfloor materials and their costs!

1. Plywood Subflooring

This is perhaps the most common choice for subfloor replacement. Regular plywood subflooring costs between $1 to $3 per square foot installed. It's durable, readily available, and works well under most types of flooring. 

The standard ¾-inch thick plywood with tongue-and-groove edges is usually recommended for homes in Pennsylvania.

2. Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

OSB is another popular option that costs slightly less than plywood, typically running between $2 to $4 per square foot installed.

While it's more budget-friendly, remember that OSB isn't as moisture-resistant as plywood. However, it can still be a good choice for areas that stay relatively dry.

3. Moisture-Resistant Options

For areas that are prone to moisture, like bathrooms, basements, or kitchens, you may want to consider specialty subflooring:

👉 DRIcore: $2.50 to $4 per square foot

👉 Amdry: $3 to $4.75 per square foot

👉 Barricade: $2 to $4.75 per square foot

These materials provide better protection against moisture and can help prevent expensive water-related damage in the future.

#3 Labor Costs

The cost of professional installation is another important part of your subflooring replacement costs.

In Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, labor costs generally run between $25 to $45 per hour. 

Most contractors will charge you based on the per square footage rather than hourly rates, but it's good to understand both pricing methods.

A few things can affect labor costs:

👉 The complexity of the job.

👉 Whether old subflooring needs to be removed.

👉 The condition of floor joists.

👉 The need to work around fixtures (like in bathrooms).

👉 The type of material being installed.

#4 Location in Your Home

Where you need to replace your subfloor can significantly impact the total cost. Here's what you can typically expect for different areas:

👉 Bathroom Subfloor Replacement: $100 to $570

Bathrooms often cost less overall because they're smaller, but the cost per square foot might be higher due to working around toilets, vanities, and other fixtures.

👉 Kitchen Subfloor Replacement: $220 to $950

Kitchens can be tricky because of cabinets, islands, and appliances that need to be worked around. Plus, the subfloor material needs to be sturdy enough to support heavy appliances.

👉 Basement Subfloor Replacement: $1,750 to $7,100

Basements often require special moisture-resistant materials and additional preparation work, which can increase costs.

#6 Additional Factors to Consider

Other than the common factors mentioned above, there are some additional components that can affect your subfloor replacement costs. 

👉 Floor Joist Repairs

Sometimes, when replacing a subfloor, you may find that the floor joists underneath need repair or replacement, too. Joist replacement can cost between $100 to $300 per joist while sistering (reinforcing) a joist costs $150 to $325.

👉 Underlayment Requirements

Some types of flooring require an additional underlayment layer above the subfloor. This can add $0.50 to $5.50 per square foot to your project.

👉 Removal and Disposal

Getting rid of your old subfloor material isn't free. Disposal costs generally range from $100 to $800, depending on the amount of material and local disposal fees. However, disposal costs are typically on the lower end of this range, around $160 on average.

How Long Does Subfloor Last?

A well-installed subfloor can last as long as your house itself (generally 50 to 100 years). However, various things can also reduce this lifespan. 

Water damage is one of the biggest threats to your subfloor's longevity and lifespan. If your subfloor experiences regular exposure to moisture, its lifespan may decrease to just 20 to 30 years. 

That's why it's very important to address any plumbing leaks or moisture issues as soon as you notice them. Proper installation, quality materials, and good ventilation all play crucial roles in extending your subfloor's life.

What are the Common Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Subfloor?

Now that you have an idea of subfloor replacement costs, it is also important to decide if your subfloor needs to be replaced or if repairs can work. Here, we will discuss common signs that indicate it's time to replace your subflooring.

#1 Squeaky or Loud Floors

If you keep hearing squeaking or creaking when walking across the floor, it might be a sign that the subfloor has become loose from the joists. While sometimes this can be fixed with additional fasteners, persistent squeaking often signals it's time for a replacement.

#2 Uneven or Soft Spots

When you notice areas of your floor that feel spongy, bouncy, or seem to sink under your weight, this generally means subfloor damage. These soft spots can be very dangerous because they might eventually give way completely.

#3 Water Damage Signs

If you notice any of the following signs, your floors might have water-related damage, and you may need to replace them. 

👉 Discoloration

👉 Musty odors

👉 Warped or buckled floors

👉 Mold or mildew growth

👉 Swollen or deformed areas

Water damage requires complete replacement of the affected area, as repairs generally don't address the underlying deterioration.

Can You Put A New Subfloor Over A Old Subfloor?

Yes, you can install a new subfloor over an existing one, but only if the old subfloor is in perfect condition. However, this isn't always the best choice. 

If your old subfloor shows any signs of wear, water damage, or other problems, you should remove it completely and start fresh. Even with a solid old subfloor, adding a new layer on top can result in problems later on, like the fasteners coming loose or the floor warping. 

For the best long-term results, removing the old subfloor is usually the safer option.

Is It Possible To Repair A Subfloor From The Underneath?

Replacing or repairing a subfloor must be done from above, not from underneath, regardless of whether your home has a basement, crawl space, or other access below. 

This is because subfloors are installed from top to bottom during construction, with the joists below and the surface flooring above. 

The subfloor panels are usually nailed or screwed down into the floor joists, with the fasteners driven from the top surface. Additionally, the panels are often glued to the joists for added stability. 

To properly replace damaged sections, contractors need clear access to these fasteners and adhesive connections. The process requires removing the finished flooring first, then assessing the extent of subfloor damage, cutting out the affected sections, and installing new panels that align with the floor joists. 

Why Is It A Bad Idea To Replace Subfloors By Yourself?

Repairing or replacing your subfloor on your own may look like a good way to save money, but it can result in more problems later. 

While it looks simple, installing a new subfloor needs professional skills. You need to know how to measure and cut the boards and how to put them in so the floor stays flat and strong. 

If you make mistakes, your floor might start to feel uneven when you walk on it sooner than expected. 

Plus, there could be hidden problems like mold or weak spots that you might not notice if you're not trained to look for them. 

Professional floor workers have the tools and years of experience to do the job right. They know how to spot problems and fix them properly. 

Overall, hiring an expert is recommended because they'll make sure your floor is safe and sturdy for decades to come.

BONUS

Tips To Save On Your Subfloor Replacement Project

Here’s how you can save on the cost of replacing a subfloor!

#1 Fix Only The Damaged Parts

If only some areas are damaged, replace those areas instead of the whole floor (but only if full replacement is not necessary). This uses less materials and work time.

#2 Buy Less Expensive Materials 

Use basic plywood or OSB boards instead of expensive flooring options. Ask your professional which affordable materials will still work well.

#3 Do Some Work Yourself 

Only if you know how you can take out the old floor yourself. This can save about $25 to $45 per hour in labor costs.

#4 Make A Good Plan 

Choose everything before the work begins. Changes during the job cost extra money. Know what materials you want and how much work needs to be done.

#5 Choose The Right Time 

Floor work costs less during slow seasons when contractors aren't as busy. Ask when their quiet times are and plan for them.

#6 Research Contractors

Get estimates from multiple contractors. Ask at least three different companies for prices. Look at their experience and reviews, not just the lowest price.

With these tips, you can get your subfloors replaced without spending too much money.

Get Professional Floor Remodeling Services In Pennsylvania

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your trusted floor remodeling professionals in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania. If you are looking for high-quality floor or subfloor replacement in Pennsylvania, we can do it for you.

We understand that your floors are the foundation of your home. Our team only uses industry-certified practices and quality materials so your floors last.  

To discuss your project with our professionals, give us a call today at (412) 353-5660.