Thickness is not the most important factor to consider when it comes to underlayment. An extra thick underlayment may be beneficial if you are installing carpeted floors or trying to smooth an uneven subfloor, but it can cause laminate or vinyl floors to flex too much and break the locking system. Look for an underlayment that is 2 to 3 mm thick; some dealers may falsely claim that a 6 mm underfloor can double sound absorption, but material and density are better soundproofing indicators. If your laminate floor already has an attached subfloor, you don't need to install another one.
Cork underlayment can provide good insulation and natural antimicrobial properties, so you don't have to worry about mold forming between the subfloor and the vinyl or laminate floor. Certain brands of felt underlayment come with a built-in moisture barrier to protect the floor from spills, so they can be used for a variety of floors, such as laminate, vinyl and hardwood. If your laminate floor sheets already have an underfloor pad, do not use any additional underlayment, as doing so will void the Swiss Krono warranty. The exception is when laminate floors are installed in an area with high humidity, such as a bathroom or basement, where a lower moisture barrier layer is a good idea.
Rubber base cannot be used on a vinyl floor because it stains; rubber is more commonly used with hardwood, tile, or carpet floors. Proper selection and installation of the subfloor is important because they can affect the feel of the laminate floor and wear over time. With the right underlayment, you can ensure that your laminate floor will last for years to come. It is essential to choose the right type of underlayment for your laminate flooring in order to get the best results.
