Optimum thickness of the substrate under the laminate. The thickness of the substrate under the laminate - does it matter The thickness of the substrate from different materials

Today, laminate is the most popular and sought-after flooring material. It has an aesthetic modern look and excellent performance. In order to keep its original gloss as long as possible, to extend the service life of this wonderful flooring, it is imperative to follow all the recommendations for installation and further operation of the laminated floor.

Laminate requires a well-prepared substrate: perfectly leveled, dry and clean. On this base, first, the substrate for the laminate is laid, and then the laminated coating itself.

Therefore, it is necessary to choose both a laminate flooring material and a lining for it.

A variety of substrates, which one is right for you, what thickness of the substrate to choose for the laminate of your particular case, let's try to figure it out.

Why put a substrate under the laminate

She has several important purposes:

Depreciation, which helps to reduce the load on the interlocks of laminated panels, i.e., prolongs the life of the coating;
Eliminates minor flaws and base defects;
Thermal and sound insulation, thanks to which the floor has a pleasant warmth and does not rumble when walking on it.

There are quite a few varieties of substrates, we will name only the most common:

polyethylene foam;
polystyrene foam;
cork;
coniferous.

Of these, the first two types are made from synthetic materials, the last two types are made from natural materials.

Polyethylene foam or polyethylene foam- the most inexpensive material. Available in two types: foil (for insulation) and regular.

Well absorbs sounds, is not damaged by rodents.

Styrofoam is in the form of small sheets. It has the properties of good sound insulation, thermal insulation, smooths minor unevenness of the subfloor, long service life. Easy to install, no damage during installation.

Cork backing consists of compressed natural chips of cork oak bark.

It has many remarkable qualities: good depreciation, thermal insulation, excellent sound absorption, very long service life, ease of installation on any surface.

Cork underlay can be used under different floor coverings: laminate, linoleum, parquet board and under carpet.

It has a high density, so it can withstand loads perfectly.

Cork backing thickness: in rolls - 2-4 mm, in sheets - 3-10 mm. The optimal thickness for laminate is 3 mm, the maximum allowable is 6 mm.

Coniferous - natural "breathing" material from coniferous wood.

Keeps heat for a long time, good sound insulation, has a long service life. Due to its high density, it levels out small errors in the base. Laying a coniferous substrate is not difficult.

In addition to these features, each substrate has one more characteristic that is very important when choosing the substrate material - this is the thickness of the substrate for the laminate.

How thick should the underlayment be for laminate flooring?

It depends on a number of factors:

foundation level;
class and thickness of laminated panels;
expected conditions - humidity, loads;
the presence of waterproofing.

The most correct option: when choosing a substrate material, find out recommendations on this matter from the manufacturer of the laminated coating. These recommendations will determine which materials and with what parameters you should prefer.

The thickness of the substrate under the laminate varies from 2 to 10 mm, but which one is better must be decided, taking into account all the factors that matter.

It should be borne in mind that lining materials with low density, softish are recommended to be used with a small thickness, for dense and elastic, the thickness may be greater:

for foam polyethylene and polystyrene substrates, the optimal thickness is 2 mm;
cork backing thickness: in rolls - 2-4 mm, in sheets - 3-10 mm. The optimal thickness for a laminate is 3 mm, the maximum allowable is 6 mm, due to its density, elasticity;
the thickness of the coniferous sheet substrate is in the range from 4 to 7 mm. Under the laminate, you should choose a coniferous substrate with a thickness of 4 mm, no more.

The thickness of the lining and panels should be commensurate. So, for a laminated material with a thickness of 7-8 mm, a lining thickness of 2-3 mm is suitable; for thin, less than 7 mm - respectively, a substrate with a thickness of two millimeters; and the thickness of the substrate under the laminate from 9 to 12 mm should be in the range from 3 to 5 mm. We remind you that the most correct thing is to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer of the laminated material on the preferred parameters and quality of the substrate material.

Choosing the thickness of the substrate for the laminate

Most often, buyers make the same mistake - they try to purchase a thicker lining in order to level a poorly prepared base. Yes, the substrate levels out small errors in the base, but not huge differences in height. When there are a lot of irregularities, and the differences are significant, then you can’t get by with just the help of the substrate, you have to start with leveling and preparing the base.

It happens that dense coniferous substrates 5 mm thick are used for flooring under the laminate. This is correct if this thickness is recommended by the manufacturer of the flooring material. And even then, the permissible maximum thickness is no more than 5 mm.

About soft substrates: It is recommended not to exceed a thickness of two to three millimeters. And certainly you can not lay the lining in two layers. Because over time, the material gradually decreases in thickness and a void is created between the substrate and the lamellas. The thicker the lining, the greater the amount of empty space. There is a risk of deformation of the panels and failure of the locking joints. If you choose a foam or polystyrene backing, do not get carried away with a thickness exceeding 3 mm.

If the levels of rough foundations in the premises are different in the apartment, it is possible to level the levels by laying substrates of different thicknesses, but always within acceptable limits.

Let's summarize our reasoning.

When choosing the thickness of the substrate for the laminate, it must be remembered that its optimal value is 3 mm. In specific cases, a smaller value is allowed: 1.8-2 mm or more: from 4 to 5 mm.
A thin substrate is laid under a thin laminate, provided that the base is perfectly leveled. A thicker lining is laid under the thicker lamellas, if this is allowed by the manufacturer of the laminated panels.
Do not try to straighten out significant irregularities using a thick substrate, this does not work, but the coating can be ruined in this way.

Now you know everything about the thickness of the substrate for the laminate, which one is best suited for the material you have chosen. Now it remains to apply the knowledge, choose a laminate and a suitable substrate and start decorating the floor in your home. Good luck!

The choice of underlay for laminate flooring is one step that gets very little attention at a time when it really needs to be taken care of. What do you know about the thickness of the substrate under the laminate? What should she be?

Often such a question leads to a stupor. Some don't know what to say. Others are guided only by basic principles: for lamellas with a thickness of 7 mm, the substrate is 2 mm, for 8-9 mm - 3 mm, 10 and more - 4 - 10 mm. These are very standard indicators and should not be taken seriously. Let's try to understand in more detail the question of what should be the thickness of the substrate for the laminate.

Choice of substrate thickness

Rule 1 The optimum thickness should be between 2 and 5 mm. Here it is also very important to take into account the material, strength, thickness of the lamellas, as well as the curvature of the draft base;

Rule 2 If you choose cork, buy sheets of 2-3 mm. Your choice is polyethylene foam? Take a closer look at 5 mm samples, because over time the material sags a lot, which affects the quality of the entire flooring and its service life.

Rule 3 A thicker layer is used in rooms where additional heat and sound insulation is needed.

! Never lay material in several layers for the purpose. The fact is that such a soft flooring will lead to an increase in the bend in the lamellae. Each time you step on the floor, the load will increase and the comb may break.

What should be the substrate for the best soundproofing properties? Many argue that the thicker the better. In truth, stacking more than standard sizes is not recommended. A more resilient material will compress under any pressure. Let's assume that the permitted height difference is about 2-3 mm per 1 square meter, then the total backlash can reach 3-4 mm. This is the limiting value, taking into account the side joints of the flooring. By increasing the size, you increase the risk of broken joints.

But, it all depends not only on technical indicators, but also on the material:

Foamed polyethylene and isolon. These are the cheapest options for layers. They are not afraid of moisture, and are also endowed with soundproofing properties. At the same time, mounting them is quite simple and easy. Here the thickness does not affect the properties in any way;
polystyrene. It is made using aluminum foil. The cost of the layer is very high, but the benefits are many. In addition, the coating fills the entire space between the rough base and the lamellas, is not afraid of moisture or mold;
cork. This option is not pressed at all. Such a layer has only a positive effect on the sound and heat insulation of the entire room.

So, the substrate for a 2 mm laminate is the so-called necessary minimum, which is able to compensate only the most minor irregularities of the rough base within 2 mm x 2 mm.

As a rule, this is a foamed version, in the structure of which sealed air chambers provide excellent moisture resistance, as well as fairly tolerant sound and heat insulation.

Such layers are very popular due to their low cost. The pluses include the fact that they are not infected with either fungi or bacteria, and also do not provide much interest to insects or rodents. But, it is worth noting the negative side: the sheets do not retain their shape well, sag over time and are afraid of ultraviolet radiation.

! In some cases, such material is also equipped with a layer of aluminum foil or a protective metallized film.

If you're looking for a really reliable 2mm layer, check out the Silent System underlay from the Norwegian company ALLOC. It is characterized by increased soundproofing properties, a dense surface and a porous structure. Recently, the Norwegian company ALLOC has begun to produce laminate with an already glued substrate (Original, Original Trend and Domestic).

The best option is a 3 mm laminate underlay. It immediately solves several main problems:

Finally smooths out the unevenness of the base;
becomes a shock absorber between the coating and the screed;
dampens the impact noise that occurs when walking.

Under such a layer, it is necessary to additionally lay a plastic film (0.2 mm).

A good example of such a layer is Isoplaat. The material has high mechanical strength, thanks to which it can withstand pressures up to 20 t/sq.m. at the joints. At the same time, due to its porosity, it is light and rather soft, which means that it quickly smoothes out any defects.

If the board is sufficiently dense and thick (8-10 mm), then underlay for laminate 10 mm used as an option for leveling surface irregularities, because the impact of the load in the place of the gap can lead to breakage of the locks.

In truth, the latter option is practically not used, since it does not justify itself. BUT, in the case of installation in a room with low traffic, its use is very helpful.

And lastly, do not think that the thickness can save the entire flooring or hide all the flaws. For a while, yes, but not forever.

The thickness of the substrate under the laminate: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10 mm. What should be the thickness of the substrate?

4 (80%)
Voted 1

The thickness of the laminate is a rather important characteristic of this flooring. For example, when installing floor cladding, its height increases, so you should take into account the presence, the size of the threshold for the normal operation of hinged, pendulum-type door panels. In addition, on the thresholds, the laminate is joined to the coating of the adjacent room, while the height of the facings should be the same.

The step at the entrance is inconvenient in operation, the safety of walking is violated. In addition to the traditional modifications of the product, when choosing which the master can choose the substrate of the required thickness, there are models of lamellas with a substrate glued to the back of the material.

Attention: The thickness of the laminate with the underlay cannot be adjusted, therefore it is taken into account in advance.

Laminate structure

The cladding is a composite, has a multilayer structure, the study of which will help to understand what the thickness of the laminate affects:

protection - acrylic or melamine resin, thanks to which the material got its name, the thickness of this layer divides the lining into classes (33 - 31, 23 - 21)
texture - decorative foil or paper with a pattern of sand, tiles, stone, wood, which is a decorative layer
base - provides rigidity, strength, is made of high-density fiberboard or PVC (waterproof modifications)
stabilizer - tarred or unrefined paper, providing elasticity to the material

The thickness of class 33 laminate usually varies between 12 - 9 mm, depending on the characteristics of the material:

a waterproof product that does not contain wood (PVC base), conditionally called a laminate due to the exact copying of the shape, interlocks, 12 mm is produced
moisture-resistant lamellas, in which all connecting surfaces (locks) that do not have melamine protection are impregnated with wax or paraffin, has a thickness of 10 mm
regular product with reinforced locks thinner than previous modifications - 9 mm

The thickness is controlled by the layer of the base, substrate, all other materials inside the composite cannot significantly change this size. In order to understand how thickness and quality correlate in a laminate, it is necessary to remember the technology of flooring with this material, take into account the specifics:

lamellas are fastened with locks into a single carpet
no fixation to the base
along the perimeter there are compensation (temperature) gaps of 12 - 15 mm, decorated with a plinth

Attention: Thus, the laminate cannot be laid on an uneven base - the lock in this place will break under load.

Minor surface defects are smoothed out by the substrate:

composite - provides moisture resistance of the lower level, evens out significant surface defects
cork - , thermal insulation
foamed polyethylene - leveling of small defects, slight protection against impact noise
polystyrene - high-quality sound insulation, improvement of acoustics, alignment of large flatness defects

The thickness of the plywood under the laminate is selected depending on the base. Thick (18 - 15 mm) slabs are laid along the logs, thin sheets (9 - 8 mm) are laid on concrete, cement screeds. Adjustable floor systems use 18 - 12 mm plywood. The maximum thickness of the substrate under the laminate is 12 mm (cork), the minimum is limited to 0.8 mm (polyethylene foam).

Therefore, the thickness of the floor can vary significantly, which should be taken into account when designing interiors. Floor coverings are traditionally laid last, so it is necessary to ensure the normal opening of door panels.

Updated: 08.11.2018 17:36:14

Judge: Lev Kaufman

Laminate is one of the most popular flooring today. Laying technology involves the use of a special layer, which is called the substrate. When buying a laminate, users pay a minimum of attention to this additional material, most often it is offered by the seller. But not only the durability and integrity of the flooring, but also the comfort in the room can depend on the quality of the substrate. What points should be paid attention to?

How to choose a laminate flooring

Many Russian users, following the example of their neighbors, are starting to take care of their health and that of their relatives. Therefore, they prefer environmentally friendly building materials. On sale you can find products made from natural raw materials (wood) or high-quality synthetic counterparts. At this stage, it is important to take into account the tendency of different people to allergies, reactions to odors, etc.
Thermal insulation. Laying the substrate allows you to improve the microclimate in a particular room. First of all, it concerns heat. Residents of private houses and apartments located on the ground floor should choose a substrate based on thermal insulation properties.
Soundproofing. In a multi-storey building, poor sound insulation becomes a serious problem. In order not to hear the noise in the apartment on the floor below, you should give preference to materials that absorb sounds and vibrations.
Thickness. High-quality laying of a laminate is possible only on a flat surface. This is difficult to achieve on a screed or old plank base. But with the help of the substrate it is possible to eliminate irregularities and differences in the floor. The worse the base, the thicker the layer under the laminate is chosen. The standard thickness is 3 mm.
Moisture resistance. Modern flooring (laminate, parquet) is quite sensitive to moisture. And if spilled liquids can be eliminated in a timely manner, then high humidity from floor or screed panels will cause the panels to swell. It is best to do a simple test to determine the moisture content of the substrate by laying plastic sheeting overnight. If perspiration does not appear by morning, then a regular substrate will do.
Manufacturer. As for the choice of manufacturer, today domestic brands compete on equal terms with imported manufacturers. Some of them use foreign developments and technologies, others introduce their own inventions.

Our review includes the best substrates for laminate flooring. When compiling the rating, the opinions of experts and reviews of domestic consumers were taken into account.

Rating of the best substrates for laminate

Nomination	place	Name of product	rating
The best substrates for laminate flooring made from natural materials	1		4.9
	2		4.8
	3		4.7
	4		4.7
	5		4.6
	6		4.5
The best substrates for polymer laminate	1		4.7
	2		4.6
Best Extruded Polystyrene Underlays	1		4.6
The best polyethylene substrates	1		4.7
	2		4.6
	3		4.5

The best substrates for laminate flooring made from natural materials

A whole set of advantages has a substrate made of natural materials. Most often it is made from different components of wood (chips, chips, cork), natural or artificial resins and adhesives can be used to connect small fractions. The only drawback of natural substrates is the high price. Experts have identified several quality products.

The most environmentally friendly layer between the base and the laminate is Steico Underfloor. It is made from natural coniferous wood, individual fibers are fastened together with the help of tree resin. The manufacturer offers its products in the form of rectangular slabs measuring 790x590 mm, depending on the requirements of the homeowner, a substrate 3.6-7 mm thick is selected according to the degree of thermal insulation. The material takes first place in the ranking for its excellent properties, it is not afraid of moisture, solvent or glue ingress.

Experts note good leveling abilities, the use of the product allows you to smooth out height differences up to 3 mm. Users often use the material when laying laminate in children's rooms.

Advantages

environmental friendliness;
good leveling ability;
a wide range of thicknesses;
high performance.

disadvantages

not detected.

High quality workmanship boasts cork substrate Premium Cork. In terms of environmental friendliness, the material is not inferior to the leader of the rating, but the price of this natural product is quite high. The product is made from cork oak bark without the addition of chemicals. Experts point out that the cork substrate retains all the most important properties over time. These are excellent thermal insulation qualities, the ability to absorb noise, floor leveling. Pests, mold and fungus do not settle in the cork. Such a substrate will be especially relevant for people suffering from allergies.

Users are pleased with the ease of preparing the base. Dust and dirt are removed from the surface, after which the roll is rolled out. Such packaging for some builders is a minus.

Advantages

environmental friendliness;
long service life;
good sound and heat insulation;
simple preparation of the base.

disadvantages

high price.

The PARCOLAG underlay has a successful combination of natural and synthetic materials. It is made on the basis of thick cardboard, on which cork chips mixed with bitumen are applied. The main advantage is thermal insulation. Experts recommend the product of the Russian company Icopal to owners of private houses and apartments on the ground floor. With its help, it is possible to put a reliable barrier to cold and moisture. The elasticity of the material increases the life of the laminate.

Thanks to the triple structure, there is good air exchange, so neither mold nor fungus appears in the substrate. The products are supplied to the distribution network in rolls 15 mm long. Among the shortcomings, users note the persistent smell of bitumen, so the applicant occupies the third line of the rating.

Advantages

reliable heat and moisture insulation;
good ventilation;
elastic structure;
high strength.

disadvantages

not suitable for underfloor heating;
bitumen smell.

One of the most attractive prices for a natural substrate is offered by the Tarkett brand. The material is made from natural cork, which predetermines a number of positive aspects. Polyurethane resin acts as a binder. First of all, the product is environmentally friendly, which expands its scope. The substrate quickly restores its original state after compression, and good thermal insulation properties reliably hold cold masses coming from the basement. On sale, the material can be found in the form of rolls 10 m long. The manufacturer took care of fakes, you can order the product on the official website. Among the shortcomings, users note a small assortment, the quality of the cork leaves much to be desired.

Advantages

environmental friendliness;
durability;
affordable price;
elasticity.

disadvantages

thin layer;
cork raw materials of low quality.

In the production of the Isoplaat underlay, the main emphasis is on soundproofing qualities. The material is made on the basis of soundproof panels. It successfully combines natural ingredients and modern technologies. Special fibers are formed from coniferous wood, thanks to which it was possible to obtain a porous structure. It is durable, and due to the introduction of antiseptics into the substrate, fungus and mold do not multiply. The product can be purchased in the form of panels measuring 850x590 mm. The maximum level of sound insulation can be achieved with a material with a thickness of 4-5 mm.

The advantages of the product, users include the absence of smell, high-quality manufacturing. However, it is not possible to find such material in every hardware store. Therefore, the applicant does not fall into the top three.

Advantages

excellent sound insulation;
elasticity;
environmental friendliness;
durability.

disadvantages

shortage in the trading network;
overcharge.

The optimal ratio of quality and price is present in the Arbiton Cork substrate. The Polish manufacturer supplies products to the Russian market in the form of rolls (10x1 m). The necessary rigidity and thermal insulation of the floor covering is provided by a material with a thickness of 2 mm. Experts pay attention to the fact that the substrate can withstand temperature extremes. It is recommended to use it in floor systems with warm (water) floors. However, shielding layers are required. The material is created on a natural basis, it has elasticity, leveling all the loads exerted on the laminate.

Builders praise the material for the formation of an even layer without waves. Only the edges of the material are fragile, so careful handling is required.

Advantages

acceptable price;
heat resistance;
elasticity;
no memory effect.

disadvantages

fragility;
heterogeneity of the composition.

The best substrates for polymer laminate

Synthetic substrates perfectly combine affordable price and good performance. They create a reliable barrier to cold and moisture at the border of concrete and laminate. But the soundproofing capabilities of the composite material are limited. The experts selected several products.

The domestic Eco-cover substrate is widely used. It is a product based on vinyl acetate and ethylene. Ecologists have no claims in terms of the safety of the material, so it can be used both in office premises and in residential buildings and apartments. Experts note excellent leveling abilities, and due to elasticity and high strength, the surface of the coating is hard. The product is produced in the form of plates, for ease of transportation, they are rolled into rolls.

The substrate becomes the winner of our rating for excellent technical characteristics. It successfully fights against noise, moisture, retains all its qualities in a wide temperature range (-40...+80°C). Finishers praise the material for its ease of use and large selection of sizes.

Advantages

wide scope of application;
good sound insulation;
moisture resistance;
ease of use.

disadvantages

high price.

The ReFoam 3002 substrate has one of the best sound insulation indicators (21 dB). The material is cross-linked polyethylene, which is safe for use in children's and medical institutions. Experts appreciate it for its high density and elasticity. Thanks to the combination of these qualities, the substrate is easy to use, and the floor covering is distinguished by its integrity. The production technology was invented in Japan, and products are manufactured and sold in Russia. Rolled products (10x1.2 m) are presented in stores, the optimal rigidity of the laminate is provided with a thickness of 2 mm.

The product does not have the best water absorption capacity, so it is not recommended to use it on the first floors of high-rise buildings where there is a basement under the floor. The material occupies the second line of the rating.

Advantages

good sound insulation;
strength and elasticity;
ease of transportation and installation;
no smell.

disadvantages

does not absorb moisture.

Best Extruded Polystyrene Underlays

Extruded polystyrene is widely used in construction, and it is also used as a substrate for laminate flooring. The strengths of the material include affordability and a wide choice of thicknesses.

The most affordable option for a laminate or parquet flooring is to use an extruded polystyrene underlay. Products are produced in the form of sheets that are convenient to transport and stack. ISOPOLIN is called a quiet floor due to its good sound-absorbing properties. The product stands out from the competition with a wide range of thicknesses. The product is light in weight, which is why air currents often lift loose sheets from the floor. Experts advise immediately connecting them with adhesive tape.

Users are satisfied with the availability of the material and the ease of installation. The disadvantages include fragility, a modest leveling ability of thin sheets (less than 3 mm). The unique Finnish technology is implemented in the Tuplex polyethylene substrate. Between the two films are foam balls. Moreover, the bottom layer has a special perforation, which allows moisture to penetrate into the material. Water exits along with air flows through the edges of the substrate. It is clear that we are talking about a small amount of moisture. Otherwise, mold or fungus will start in the material.

According to experts, such a breathable design is easy to install. There is a small percentage of waste, which is inherent in other competitors. For good technical parameters and original design, the substrate becomes the winner of our rating.

Advantages

unique manufacturing technology;
good moisture absorption;
breathable construction;
efficient ventilation.

disadvantages

limited range of thicknesses.

At the same time, foil Izolon PPE allows you to protect the floor from cold and moisture. The substrate is a cross-linked polyethylene, which is produced in rolls. Aluminum foil is attached to one side of the substrate. Due to this design, the material has a low coefficient of thermal conductivity. The material perfectly protects the laminate from steam and moisture, often foil Isolon is used as a waterproofing. Along with durability and resistance to decay, the product is environmentally friendly. It is suitable for installation of underfloor heating.

When laying laminate, there is a problem with the formation of a single layer. As a result, the joints become weak points for the penetration of cold and moisture.

Advantages

low coefficient of thermal conductivity;
security;
elasticity;
possibility of reuse.

disadvantages

high price.

Owners of apartments living above the 2nd floor, when laying a laminate or parquet board, can use Izolon PPE as a layer. Unlike the foil version, the material does not claim to be the best insulation or vapor barrier. This is not required of him when the floor covering is mounted on a dry and warm ceiling. The basis of the substrate is the same foamed polyethylene foam, sewn into a single roll. Thanks to the multilayer cellular structure, the product perfectly absorbs noise and vibration, additionally preventing heat loss in the room. Experts note the inertness of polyethylene foam, it does not emit harmful compounds, does not react with gasoline or alkaline detergents. A set of useful characteristics allows the substrate to take third place in our rating.

Advantages

affordable price;
inertia;
good sound insulation;
security.

disadvantages

gradual thinning of the substrate.

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Laminate is an affordable floor covering, which is a fibreboard covered with a decorative wear-resistant film. It has a multi-layer structure and is divided into classes (31-34) depending on the withstand load. You need to lay the laminate on the substrate.

Laminate underlay can be 2-10mm thick. Although the greater layer thickness allows laminate flooring to be laid on floors with strong drops, floor manufacturers do not recommend this. Therefore, before work, you need to accurately level the level of all surfaces.

Popular materials:

wood cork;
fibreboard;
Styrofoam;
Foamed polyethylene.

The purpose of the substrate under the laminate:

Soundproofing (absorption of extraneous noise, ensuring silence);
Elimination of differences in floor level (smoothing irregularities);
Thermal insulation (maintaining a constant level of temperature in the room);
Cushioning (shock absorption when walking);
Squeak protection.

The right choice of underlayment is the key to a long service life of the flooring and a guarantee of comfortable conditions in the room. It is worth doing it based on three criteria: material, thickness, packaging (sheets, rolls).

Types of substrate materials

An important selection criterion is the material of manufacture. It depends on the material what properties the floor will have.

Cork

Natural cork underlay is made from crushed cork tree bark. Wood grains are held together by a sticky substance found in the bark itself. The material is obtained with high density (200-260 kg per cubic meter), has a tensile strength of 2 kg per cubic cm, absorbs sound well and retains heat. And also the cork has sufficient resistance to compression, therefore, during operation it is subject to deformation.

If it is necessary not only to prepare the surface for laying the floor, but also to provide heat and sound insulation, then cork will be the best solution. It is an environmentally friendly material that is safe for health. It is also 100% hypoallergenic.

A significant disadvantage of this choice is the high cost of the material, so laying a cork under a cheap laminate is a bad idea. But under an expensive floor covering, a cork as a substrate is just right.

Combined options for cork-based floor underlays can also be found on sale:

rubber-cork;
bituminous cork.

Cork is usually sold in rolls. The thickness of one sheet is from 2 to 4 mm. Sheets with a greater thickness are no longer used as a substrate, but are an independent floor covering. Cork is not suitable for underfloor heating.

fibreboard

This substrate is a board made from wood fibers with the addition of binders. Chips, chopped wood (crushed wood), lignified parts of plant stems (bonfire) can be used as raw materials for manufacturing.

The material is capricious in terms of laying: the plates must be laid perpendicularly, plus it is necessary to indent from the walls so that when the air temperature changes, the substrate does not squeeze the floor covering.

Styrofoam

Expanded polystyrene is a 100% artificial material that is obtained by combining polystyrene granules with various additives under high temperature and pressure. Its peculiarity is that it has many cells with air.

Many flooring manufacturers offer an expanded polystyrene underlayment under the laminate flooring. This material has become popular due to its low price and high performance. The thickness is 2-5 mm. Sold in slabs, rolls, sheets.

Advantages	disadvantages
Affordable price (for most models)	No leveling effect
Long term operation	Good quality material will cost more
Resistant to moisture, mold	Doesn't dampen vibrations
Large selection in stores	It is necessary to withstand in the room where the installation of the floor will be carried out, so that the material "gets used" to the temperature and humidity level
	It is necessary to leave gaps near the walls in case of expansion of the material
No additional fasteners required for installation

Can be used in unheated rooms
Does not collect condensate

During installation, resin and mastic compositions must be avoided. They can react with polystyrene foam.

Foamed polyethylene

Available option of a substrate – the made foam polyethylene. However, despite the cost, it has many advantages. The material can be laid on the floor with a height difference of up to 4 mm. Perfectly suited for laying under an inexpensive laminate. It is worth choosing such a substrate with a high density of the material.

If you need to lay the floor in a room with high humidity, then it is better to buy a substrate with a foil layer. Choose the thickness of the substrate is in the range of 2-5 mm. If you take more, it will spring when walking.

This underlay option is not suitable if the laminate has a soundproofing layer. Exception - the floor covering is mounted directly on the concrete.

How to lay the underlay

Before laying the substrate, dust and dirt must be carefully removed from the subfloor. If necessary, it is covered with a layer of moisture protection.

Start laying the laminate is from the window deep into the room. You can do this in stages: lay a part of the material, lay the floor on it, then lay the substrate again, and on it another section of the laminate. Phased laying will keep the materials clean, especially if such work has to be done for the first time and it is not clear how long the process will take (maybe several days).

Produced in several versions. As a rule, rolls and sheets are on sale. The width of the material in a roll is 1.2 m, and the length is more than 10 m. Rolls should be laid perpendicular to the laminate boards, otherwise the seams of the substrate may move apart. To keep it in place when rolling the material around the room, it can be fastened with masking tape. The sheet substrate is stacked in a checkerboard pattern and fastened with adhesive tape in the same way.

When choosing a substrate for laminate flooring, it is necessary to consider options in the same price category as the flooring itself. An expensive floor will last less if you lay a cheap substrate under it. And vice versa: an expensive underlay will be a waste of money if it is needed under a cheap floor. Therefore, it is necessary not only to pay attention to the characteristics of the material, but also its price. In this case, cost may be the determining factor.

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