Types of underlays for laminate
The floor covering is laid in strict accordance with the developed technology. Laminate flooring is popular today. It is easy to use and easy to care for. The appearance of the laminate and its durability to a certain extent depend on the correct selection of the substrate. Therefore, special attention is paid to this issue.
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Types of laminate substrates: advantages and disadvantages
A huge range of products is produced by modern manufacturers. This allows you to find the most suitable type for each specific case. When choosing a substrate, pay attention to the following:
- material:
- price;
- characteristics.
Foamed polyethylene is the simplest solution. It is in demand among consumers due to its affordable price and its properties. Elastic elastic fabric has good thermal insulation and moisture resistance.
IMPORTANT! Foamed polyethylene is not subject to rotting and mold does not appear on it.
The disadvantage is the ability to quickly ignite and maintain combustion. Therefore, it is protected with fire retardants and other compounds that make it more resistant to high temperatures.
Foil polyethylene foam has higher strength, thermal conductivity, and moisture resistance than the previous version. It is often used for damp areas. The insulation consists of foamed polyethylene and a layer of aluminum foil.
ATTENTION! Its installation is carried out quickly, but minor mechanical damage can cause loss of insulating ability.
The price of foil polyethylene foam depends on its thickness, the presence of a self-adhesive layer, and the length of the roll.
Extruded polystyrene is available in green sheets. It is characterized by resistance to loads and good sound insulation. If a fire occurs, toxic substances will begin to be released into the air. This feature must be taken into account when laying the coating and use special means that can protect the layer from ignition.
The cork option has the following advantages:
- good sound insulation properties;
- resistance to mechanical loads;
- natural material.
The surface of the base on which the material is laid must be flat. This insulation is afraid of dampness, so a waterproofing layer is used along with it.
The bitumen-cork substrate is equipped with excellent sound insulation. The layer prevents condensation. The material is chosen for expensive flooring that can last a long time.
Coniferous backing often breaks during transportation and installation. It is able to level the surface of the base and has good thermal insulation. The material is moisture resistant, but it should not be used in places where there is a risk of flooding.
IMPORTANT! The coniferous type strongly absorbs odors from the environment. Its disadvantages include the fact that insects and fungus can appear inside.
Fiberglass underlayment will help quickly and inexpensively solve the problem of laying flooring. This is an environmentally friendly material that has high mechanical resistance. It is easy to install and inexpensive.Before using it, the surface must be perfectly leveled.
Why is it necessary to use a substrate?
When laying laminate, using an additional layer will help reduce the load on the material. The substrate is an important auxiliary element of the structure. Many characteristics of the floor covering depend on it. It performs the following important functions:
- increases the service life of the laminate;
- improves material properties;
- ensures uniform installation.
Improper installation of laminate flooring can lead to damage to the boards, gaps and other defects. When walking on the floor, the sound of footsteps will be heard, which may disturb neighbors. To get rid of the problem, lay an additional layer. It is important that it has good soundproofing characteristics.
Businesses today produce products with a backing that is attached to each board. This product costs much more. You can save money if you choose the product yourself and do the installation.
ATTENTION! When purchasing, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's labeling. Technical specifications are usually indicated on the packaging.
Laminate does not withstand exposure to water. The additional layer is able to maintain the necessary microclimate for the concrete screed. It provides moisture protection and helps retain heat in the room. An additional layer can smooth out the unevenness of the base on which the laminate is planned to be installed.
What type of underlay for laminate to choose
Before purchasing a material, you need to study its properties and analyze the information received. The substrate must first of all be safe. It can be used to level the base before installing the laminate.
It is better to purchase options that create an excellent thermal insulation and sound barrier. Mold should not form on the insulation. Preference should be given to products that are wear-resistant and are not afraid of significant loads.
If you plan to install warm floors, then not every option is suitable for this. It is necessary to take into account the features of the concrete screed:
- If the base has a flat surface, then a material 2 mm thick is sufficient.
- If there are small defects, such a layer may not be enough, so products of greater thickness are purchased.
The substrate is selected depending on the goals to be achieved. It is important to consider its characteristics. The choice depends on whether you plan to install the laminate yourself or whether specialists will do the work. A high-quality underlay will ensure long-term operation of the floor covering.
