While there are a number of good options on the market, cork and foam are common favorites for a laminate floor base. Depending on your lifestyle, you may appreciate cork for its thickness and sound absorption; foam, on the other hand, is an excellent and cost-effective material that acts as a moisture barrier. When it comes to choosing a fiber base instead of a foam base, the choice may be easier than you expected. The foam base comes in rolls and is a great basic option for their new floors.
It is affordable and ideal for placing on all types of subfloors. In the case of concrete subfloors, be sure to choose a base that has a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from affecting the floors. The only disadvantage of choosing a foam base is that the subfloor must be completely level, otherwise there is a risk of exerting excessive pressure on the joints of the laminate floor. A common mistake is to use carpet padding or other soft and thick underfloor, thinking that this will somehow increase the comfort of walking on a laminate floor.
But this will only serve to make the floor flex significantly so that the joints can be loosened. Subfloors suitable for laminate floors are very thin layers of foam that slightly cushion the floor but do not allow movement to be noticed underfoot. These products are applied to the subfloor by spreading them and sealing the seams with adhesive strips, which are sometimes pre-attached to the subfloor. Cold soil subsoils are often prone to wetting, which may damage the laminate.
If you're wondering which is the best base for laminate or wood floors, Fibreboard is a great choice. It helps smooth uneven floors, reduces noise and acts as an excellent thermal insulator. Not to mention, it's also the best base choice for laminate and wood floors. A number of different materials are used to make the laminate base, ranging from basic foam and foam rubber to foam and high-density fiberboard.
What can make the most difference is the construction of the base and any additional properties that help to soundproof it, protect it from moisture and, in some cases, be compatible with underfloor heating. You can also find a base layer that smooths out irregularities in the subfloor or on the existing floor. A good basic base that can be used on any wooden subfloor. If used on concrete floors, a moisture-proof membrane must first be placed.
The Quickstep base must be used to comply with the Quickstep warranty. At Carpet Underlay Shop, we have several base layers specifically designed for use with wooden or laminate floors. Most are suitable for both domestic and commercial use. However, the best option for you will depend on where you want to install the laminate base and the results you want to achieve (e.g.
improve foot comfort, add thermal protection, etc.). If you're looking for an affordable base that fits under a hardwood or laminate floor, the bottom layer of foam is the solution. However, as with carpets, a suitable base is essential if you want your floor to last longer and look better and perform better once placed. Durable and easy to install, this underlayment comes with an adhesive tape to easily seal the rows of subfloor.
If you don't use a base coat, your beautiful laminate floor will be prone to damage and wear. In low-traffic areas where the chance of humidity is minimal, such as guest rooms or converted loft-style spaces, a basic layer of foam for laminate floors may suffice. Installing laminate flooring in upper rooms can cause footsteps and other noises to spread to lower spaces. It's no wonder that laminate floors are one of the most popular and appreciated options of housing.
We do not recommend placing a cork base with laminate floors in rooms prone to getting wet. While the subfloor provides the fundamental support of the room, the subfloor is what supports the floor material itself, with the objective of improving and protecting the floor. As with carpets, laminate floors require a base layer to last as long as possible and perform better once placed. This will allow you to place the baseboards on the base and the laminated boards, which will result in a more professional, seamless finish.
The base protects the floor from shocks and impacts caused by general use, such as footsteps and moving furniture. The type of subfloor chosen should be based on the environment, type of floor chosen and your personal space needs. While laminate floors are quiet when walking, noise can easily be transferred to lower floors without proper underlayment. If you want to get optimal performance and durable quality from your laminate flooring installation, you should install it with an appropriate bottom layer.
