New Practice for Measurement of Subfloor Flatness to Receive Resilient Flooring
1. Scope
This practice will provide standardized procedures for measuring and determining the flatness of subfloors intended to receive resilient floor coverings. It will define the application and data collection protocols for multiple measurement technologies. This practice is intended to verify substrate conformance to tolerances specified by ASTM F710, manufacturers, and project architects and designers.
Keywords
altimeter; cementitious underlayment; concrete; concrete floor; concrete floor slab; concrete repair; concrete subfloor; digital altimeter; digital level; elevated slab; f-numbers; ff/fl; floor prep; gypcrete; gypcrete floor; gypcrete subfloor; gypsum; gypsum floor; gypsum subfloor; laser scanning; level; self-leveling; self-leveling underlayment; slab-on-grade; slab-on-ground; slope; subfloor prep; subfloor preparation; tolerance conformance; underlayment; wood floor; wood subfloor; ada
Rationale
Currently, no unified ASTM standard exists to provide specific instructions on how to measure floor flatness across various common subfloor types (concrete, gypsum, wood). While industry tolerances (e.g., 3/16" in 10') are widely cited, the methods used to verify them are often inconsistent or outdated.
Traditional manual straightedge testing is prone to human error and lacks the digital repeatability required for modern high-performance installations. By standardizing the use of advanced tools and instruments, this Work Item will provide a consistent, objective framework for all stakeholders, from specifiers, concrete repair contractors, finished floor installers, to building owners and management.
This standard intends to address a critical gaps in quality assurance and quality control, reducing the risk of subfloor flatness deficiencies that can create disputes between project stakeholders.
Users would include: specifiers, contractors, installers, inspectors, and building management.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 05-19-2025
Technical Contact: Walter Bell