I have a 250sf area that was previously covered by parquet (circa 1960's).

As a zealous new homeowner, I ripped up the parquet (the individual squares popped up fairly easily) and left the black, tacky glue on the subfloor. I did my best to level out the floor by nocking down the high points in the adhesive.

I then rolled roofing paper over it and stapled down a 3/8" engineered floor.

Now, 1 year later I can't stand the floor. When walking across the sections that have adhesive below, you can hear the tacky glue seperating from the roofing paper. It drives me nuts.

I know that it's time to do it right. What I don't know is what my options are.

Do I remove the glue? How?

Do I have to replace the 3/4" subfloor?

That black goo is more than likely cut back adhesive. If you wish to remove it, you can either cut out the subflooring and replace that, as you mentioned. Or install a plywood underlayment of 3/8" minimun CDX over that mess. I've heard of soy bean adhesive removers but can't recommend them as I haven't used them.

Thanks Gary,
Replacing the subfloor seems like the best way to ensure that the glue will not be a problem in the future, but it sounds expensive...

Here are a few pictures of what I'm up against...

Most of you probably already know this, but it should be assumed that many adhesives manufactured before the 70's contained asbestos. This is also true of things like any vinyl flooring you may be removing. Make sure to deal with them using the appropriate procedures.

Right about the asbestos.

I'm just wondering if you have considered shooting some brads in here and there to see if it helps any..... brads are very inconspicuous to putty over. Or, squeeek-no-more snap off screws.

I believe I would try something like that first before i replaced the whole floor.

If the floor pops like you describe, your fasteners didn't suck it down tight at the time of the installation, like it may be bridging a low area.

Noises with foot traffic indicates movement.

The question is "why is it moving".

Perry Wright, of Austin, may have a respectable statement made.

Is it moving everywhere? This would indicate the possibility of improper fasteners.

Is it moving on AREAS only? This would indicate Perry Wright may have the Answer.

Thank you for Asking.

Wow!!! What got into Ray Darrah.