Which underlay for parquet boards is better?

Parquet board is one of the most common materials for floor finishing. When laying, a number of nuances should be taken into account in order to extend the service life, maintain the natural structure and attractive appearance of the coating. One of the mandatory items is the use of a substrate, which is located between the subfloor and the finishing material. Before choosing it, you need to carefully study the types being sold, their characteristics and features.

Why do you need an underlay for a parquet board?

When laying parquet, the use of an additional underlay is mandatory. It is laid on a subfloor (concrete or wood). A parquet board is placed on top of the underlying layer. This need is caused by many factors.

The main ones include ensuring a tighter fit of the finishing material. The absence of the epigastric layer leads to the appearance of air gaps, which cause premature drying of the material. This causes creaks and cracks to appear.

ATTENTION! Such gaps significantly reduce the thermal properties of parquet.

The use of an intermediate layer provides additional thermal insulation. The substrate is made of synthetic materials that protect the wood material from moisture residues and vapor formation.

The backing material performs the function of damping. It significantly reduces the level of household noise and vibration occurring in the room.

REFERENCE! The underlay is also needed to eliminate the possibility of damage to the locks of the parquet board.

Types of backing material

The assortment presented in specialized stores is characterized by a wide variety. When making a purchase, you must carefully study all the characteristics and materials used for the substrates.

Varieties:

1. Foamed polyethylene. It has a favorable price. In manufacturing, a synthetic elastomer is used. It is distinguished by its thermal conductivity properties, elasticity, resistance to moisture, and ease of installation. Available in several types: non-crosslinked polyethylene, foil-treated isolon, polyethylene with additional welded film. Izolon is not recommended for use in combination with additional floor heating.
2. Extruded polystyrene foam. It stands out for its zero water permeability. Helps absorb household noise and has a durable and elastic structure. Simple installation steps allow you to carry out the installation yourself. Available in four forms: plates, rolls, accordions, accordions with an additional layer of foil.
3. Coniferous mats. In production, pine and spruce wood fibers are used. Helps absorb household noise when walking or moving furniture, it is distinguished by its elasticity and dense structure. Among the disadvantages, the possible occurrence of fungus or mold stands out. When choosing coniferous mats as a substrate, you should take into account the likelihood of allergic reactions.
4. Cork agglomerate. Made from oak bark and thermosetting synthetic resin. This coating is distinguished by its density and elasticity. There is a slight noise absorption effect.The material is not resistant to moisture absorption, which can cause mold. To prevent this, a waterproofing film should be used.
5. Combined substrate. It is a combination of polyethylene film and polystyrene filler. It has high noise absorption, elasticity, and strength. Suitable for self-installation. Combination with warm floors is allowed.
6. Construction cardboard. Less popular as a substrate for parquet boards. To enhance the positive qualities, it is recommended to use water-repellent impregnation. It is characterized by a dense structure and is resistant to damage.

Which underlay for parquet boards is better?

When selecting a substrate material, several criteria should be adhered to.

First of all, it is necessary to take into account the material of the subfloor. Any of the above coatings is suitable for use in combination with concrete pavement. The most popular are polyethylene and its varieties. When purchasing a concrete substrate, it is necessary to take into account the residual moisture levels. The optimal choice would be polyethylene with a welded film, which has an additional adhesive layer.

Wood has a more capricious structure and therefore requires a special approach. Coniferous mats are suitable for use. It is better to refrain from using film. Wood needs regular air flow. The film will contribute to its complete absence. This can lead to a significant reduction in service life, the development of fungus, mold, and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

ATTENTION! We must not forget about additional floor heating.Many forms of substrate are not suitable for use due to their high thermal insulation properties. In this case, it is recommended to use construction cardboard or perforated backing materials.

When laying parquet boards, a special underlay is required. This material has a large number of types. In order to make the right choice, you should adhere to the above recommendations.