Are you planning on installing laminate flooring in your home? Well, laminate flooring is an excellent choice for a stylish and durable floor. However, there’s a crucial factor that often gets overlooked but is essential for longevity and performance: the underlayment.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of underlayment selection, let’s first understand what it is and why it matters. To match find your perfect laminate flooring and underlayment match, visit us today!

What Is Underlayment?

Underlayment is a layer that goes between your flooring and the subfloor. It might not be visible once your beautiful laminate flooring is in place, but its role is indispensable. It is the support and stability to your flooring. It may seem like a small detail, but trust us, it makes a world of difference.

Why Do You Need Underlayment for Laminate Flooring?

1. Moisture Protection: One of the key roles of underlayment is moisture protection. Laminate flooring and moisture are not the best of friends. If moisture seeps in from the subfloor, it can cause your laminate to warp or swell. That’s where the underlayment comes in. It acts as a barrier, preventing moisture from reaching your beautiful laminate.

2. Sound Reduction: Laminate can be a bit noisy when you walk on it. If you’ve ever heard that hollow tap-tap sound, you know what we mean. The underlayment helps reduce this noise, making your home quieter and more comfortable.

3. Comfort Underfoot: Nobody likes a hard and unforgiving floor. The underlayment provides a bit of cushioning, making your laminate flooring more comfortable to walk on.

4. Smooth Surface: Sometimes, your subfloor might have imperfections, like small bumps or uneven spots. These imperfections can show through, making it look less than perfect. Underlayment creates a smooth and level surface for your laminate to shine on.

Choosing the Right Underlayment for Your Laminate Flooring

Now that we’ve established why you need underlayment for laminate flooring, let’s decode the process of selecting the right one.

1. Consider the Subfloor: The first thing to think about is the type of subfloor you have. Is it concrete or wood? This matters because different types of underlayment are suitable for different subfloors. For instance, foam underlayment works well over concrete, while plywood underlayment is ideal for wood subfloors.

2. Thickness Matters: Underlayment comes in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 2mm to 3mm. Thicker underlayment provides better cushioning and sound reduction. However, be cautious not to choose something too thick, as it can affect the stability of your flooring.

3. Moisture Protection: If you’re installing laminate flooring in a room prone to moisture, like a basement or a bathroom, it’s essential to select an underlayment with excellent moisture resistance. Look for options with a moisture barrier built-in or add a separate vapor barrier if needed.

4. Soundproofing Needs: If noise reduction is a priority, consider underlayment specifically designed for soundproofing. These products have added layers to dampen sound effectively.

5. Quality Matters: Don’t skimp on underlayment quality. Investing in a high-quality underlayment may cost a bit more initially, but it will pay off in the long run by extending the life of your laminate flooring.

6. Installation Ease: Some underlayment options come with a self-adhesive backing, making installation a breeze. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, this can save you time and effort.

Choose the Right Underlayment for Your Laminate Flooring Today!

Selecting the proper underlayment for your laminate flooring is a practical step towards ensuring a durable and comfortable living space. It shields against moisture, reduces noise, and provides that extra cushioning underfoot. Now that you know its significance, take the next step and choose the right underlayment for your project. Your cozy, stylish home awaits – visit us to get started today!