Laminate underlay. The best substrate for laminate and parquet boards

The substrate is a special damping material, the main task of which is to separate the laminate from the base. Thanks to him finishing protected from moisture and impact noise. Moreover, the lining material provides the best thermal insulation premises. What is the best underlay for laminate flooring? This article will focus on the types of dampers, as well as the pros and cons of modern flooring.

The main tasks of the substrate

Floor covering plays one of the most important roles in the repair of the premises. At the same time, laminate and parquet are placed only on a pre-prepared base. That is why the choice of flooring must be taken seriously. The substrate performs many functions that improve performance floor covering:

Soundproofing. Laminate, like many synthetic materials, has one significant drawback: while walking on the surface, an unpleasant loud sound is made, which betrays the artificiality of the coating. Therefore, a buffer in the form of a special bedding is placed between the lamellas and the screed to absorb impact noise;
Leveling properties. Since it is almost impossible to make a perfectly even screed, some of the “concerns” are taken over by the intermediate flooring;
Moisture isolation. High humidity adversely affects the laminated coating, so it cannot be mounted on a wet screed. To ensure sufficient waterproofing, special moisture-resistant substrates are used to protect the lamellas from destruction;
Thermal insulation. By itself, the laminate is a good thermal insulator, but this is not always enough to ensure effective heat retention in the room. The damper will help to reduce the level of "leakage" of heat, which, in combination with the top coat, will give double protection from the cold.

lining requirements

Today, manufacturers of building materials offer consumers a variety of substrates that should ensure the durability of the coating. At the same time, saving on the damper can lead to very negative consequences, up to the destruction of the locking systems and the deformation of the lamellas.

What is the best underlay for laminate flooring? First of all, it must be of high quality, so the material must meet certain requirements:

The floor must "breathe", for this reason it is desirable that the structure of the flooring be porous, this will contribute to the micro-ventilation of the floor;
The material must provide good sound and heat insulation;
The litter should reduce the load on the lock joints of the lamellas.

The main types of dampers

What underlay should I use for laminate flooring? To make a choice, it is worth considering the main types of materials, as well as the pros and cons of their use. Only then will everyone be able to determine for themselves best option underlying layer.

All litters are classified according to the following criteria:

Manufacturing material. As raw materials for the production of the damper are used:
- Natural Supplements - wood pellets and pressed chips;
- Synthesized additives - polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene.
Manufacturing method.

At the same time, each of these types has the pros and cons of the substrate for the laminate. And to make right choice in favor of one or another type of coverage, it is worth evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each separately.

Isolone pad

does not react with chemicals;
is not a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria and mold;
has excellent sound and heat insulation;
has vapor permeability, so it can be mounted in rooms with high humidity;
cheap material.

At the same time, many consumer reviews indicate the presence of some disadvantages of the flooring.

easily torn and deformed;
under the influence of a serious load, it can become thinner, which will lead to the appearance of backlash between the lamellas and the base.

Polystyrene flooring

The bedding consists of two layers: foil and polystyrene. In comparison with the isolone layer, it has better technical characteristics.

Does not thin out so quickly under mechanical stress;
Eliminates up to 70% of noise;
Protects the coating from impact vibration.

The material is quite difficult to unfold, so mounting it is very problematic;
It costs more than isolon.

fiberglass flooring

The damper is an environmentally friendly material, so it can be easily laid even in children's rooms. Fiberglass is recommended for installation on concrete and wooden floors.

does not contain toxic substances;
amenable only to elastic deformation;
mounted immediately on the rough base without any intermediate layers;
has good soundproofing performance.

used for laying lamellas, the thickness of which does not exceed 5-7 mm;
rather expensive material.

What substrate to choose under the laminate, so that it is durable? For these purposes, it is best to use a lining of pressed oak bark granules.

does not wrinkle and can last more than 100 years;
excellent heat and sound insulator;
very strong, therefore withstands a significant point load.

not suitable for installation in rooms with high level humidity;
like cellulose, it is a favorable environment for the reproduction of mold;
It is used mainly for laying on a wooden base.

Bitumen cork damper

This type of material is produced on the basis of kraft paper with some addition of bitumen.

well absorbs noise;
prevents the penetration of moisture;
provides microventilation of the coating;
has leveling properties.

due to the content of bitumen, it is a fire hazardous material, therefore it is not used in private dwellings;
one of the most expensive intermediate flooring.

Composite materials

Special membranes provide good moisture insulation;
Absorbs transit noise;
Provide good thermal insulation, suitable for the "warm floor" system.

High price.

How to choose a substrate?

The best substrate under the laminate one that corresponds to the thickness of the laminated boards. When choosing a damper, first of all, you should pay attention to its thickness. Under the laminate, with a thickness of 4 to 6 mm, experts recommend using a 2 mm lining.

Tip: For boards with a thickness of 7 to 12 mm, it is advisable to use 4 mm substrates. A thicker buffer layer will spring, which will lead to loosening of the locking system on the lamellas. After some time, this will affect the quality of the connection of the panels.

What kind of substrate will be of high quality? To finally answer this question, it is necessary to determine the selection criteria, according to which each consumer will be able to make the best decision for himself:

Compare the cost of a laminated coating and a damper layer. It makes no sense to put expensive composite bedding under a low-quality laminate, this will not affect its technical characteristics in any way. That is why for budget option it is not recommended to use special bedding for the finishing coat;
Before making your choice, decide on the purpose of laying the damper layer, what functions it should perform. Often people overpay by choosing best coverage, half of whose properties remain unused;
Estimate the area of the base. For large rooms, it is desirable to use rolled substrates, and for small ones - tiled ones. This will significantly reduce the time of preparatory work.

The final choice of damping material will depend on the financial capabilities of the consumer, as well as the characteristics of the premises where repair work. It should be borne in mind that each individual situation needs its own technical solution.

Laying modern flooring without fail occurs in compliance with a certain technology. The use of a special substrate provides the desired level and characteristics of the base layer. Our article provides an overview of the main types of laminate underlay and recommendations for the successful selection of this necessary element.

Why is it necessary to use

Before installing the laminate, the main condition for the durability of the coating is the installation of the substrate. Reasonable economy in this case suggests the use of different types this material. If this is not done, the manufacturer's warranty will not apply in such cases. In addition, the substrate performs many more important functions.

On the photo views underlay for laminate

What is the effect of using:

Coating durability.
Operational characteristics.
Appearance and uniformity of laying.
Temperature and humidity in the room.

Improper installation of the laminate is fraught with problems that arise in the future. These include injury and swelling. floor boards, as well as squeaks while walking, gaps and a short service life.

What are

Of course, modern building materials are presented in the widest range. There are also several types of substrates for laying laminate flooring. They differ not only in the material used, but also in cost and technical characteristics. Choosing suitable option, all the advantages and disadvantages should be evaluated, as well as the necessary parameters for the operation of the future flooring should be compared. The main indicators and types of floor substrate are discussed below.

On the video - types of substrates for laminate, advantages and disadvantages:

Foamed polyethylene

It is a porous material similar to packing sheets. The simplest and most inexpensive type of substrate, which has its own characteristics and nuances of use.

Advantages:

Good moisture resistance and thermal insulation.
Does not rot, also there is no formation of mold and fungus on the surface.
It is possible to equalize the difference up to 4 mm.
Affordable cost.
Ease of installation.

Among the shortcomings, one can note low mechanical strength - the material is easily damaged during installation, as well as during transportation. If such a lining is used for high traffic areas, the layer quickly sags and ceases to perform shock-absorbing functions.

In the photo - foamed polyethylene

Foil polyethylene foam

It differs from the previous version only in the presence of a foil base on one side of the substrate. Due to this, it has slightly higher strength indicators, and also has improved thermal conductivity and moisture resistance.

Usage features:

It is recommended to use for damp rooms, as well as for flooring over basements and outbuildings.
If it is necessary to protect the coating from a damp floor, the substrate is installed with the foil layers down.
If you plan to install above the "warm floor" system, the foil is on top to reduce heat loss.

Exist universal option such a substrate, when the foil layer frames the polyethylene foam on both sides. Such material will cost much more, so in some situations this is an unjustified expense.

It will also be interesting to learn how to choose a substrate under parquet board:

But which substrate is better to choose for a laminate and what criteria you should pay attention to, is indicated in this

Extruded polystyrene

Optimum price / quality ratio, this material has proven itself in operation. Outwardly, it resembles ordinary polystyrene, it is sold in green sheets.

In the photo - extruded polystyrene

Advantages:

Insensitive to vibrations.

Good hydro-barrier functions.

Provides excellent sound insulation.

It is not subject to destruction by mold and fungal formations.

However, this material has one very significant drawback. When burning, such a substrate releases a large amount of toxic gases. If such a material is used, it is necessary to provide additional fire safety. But how to properly use TechnoNIKOL foam glue for expanded polystyrene is indicated in this

Cork backing

One of the most suitable materials. Made from crushed cork tree bark. It is considered natural and the safest material.

Advantages:

Excellent soundproof properties.
Excellent resistance to mechanical stress.
Provides good thermal insulation.

The installation of such material has its own characteristics, because the surface of the subfloor must be perfectly flat. In addition, the cork substrate is afraid of dampness and cannot be used in rooms for a certain purpose. Together with this material, it is desirable to use an additional layer of waterproofing. The high cost of this material is also a disadvantage.

In the photo - cork substrate

Two materials are used as a connecting agent in the production of cork substrate. This will indicate the differences between them and the modified specifications.

The most popular substrate is made of cork-bitumen material. Such a composition will provide improved waterproofing properties.

If additional cushioning is needed, for example, when housing is located near busy highways, a different type is used. cork material. It contains cork and rubber, so the performance of this option is much higher.

Both of these materials are in poor contact with heating elements, therefore, when installing the "warm floor" system at the same time, it is not recommended to use such substrates. But how to use a cork underlay under a parquet board and how to do it correctly is indicated in great detail in this

Coniferous

The use of such material began relatively recently, so it is still difficult to determine such exact pros and cons. Outwardly, it looks like thin sheets of pretty brittle material. It often breaks during transportation and installation, which makes it difficult to install.

On the photo coniferous underlay for laminate

Advantages:

Environmental friendliness, when buying, be sure to check the certificate certifying this parameter.
Perfectly levels the rough surface of the floor, even with strong differences.
Excellent sound and heat insulation characteristics.
It is not afraid of moisture, although it is not recommended in rooms with an increased risk of flooding.

fiberglass

Despite the relatively low prevalence of this option, this is a great way to quickly and inexpensively lay floors.

In the photo - fiberglass substrate under the laminate

Advantages:

Environmental Safety.
Excellent mechanical resistance.
Good technical specifications.

Produced in the form of a roll of thin material of a greenish tint. Ease of installation and relatively low cost make this option almost the most successful of all possible. Among the disadvantages is the need to perfectly level the floor surface before laying. But what are the differences between basalt fiber and mineral wool exist, you can find out by reading this

But what it is and where it is used can be found in this article.

Basic selection rules

When purchasing this or that material, it is imperative to accurately study the information and analyze the data obtained. In the case of choosing a substrate for a laminate, the following parameters can be called the most significant criteria.

Priority selection points:

Environmental Safety. This is especially important for residential areas. special purpose. These are children's rooms, bedrooms and halls. It is here that residents spend the most time, so safety will be paramount.
Rough floor covering. It is not always possible to align the base “under zero”. To hide minor flaws and at the same time not damage an expensive laminate, you can use a substrate material that hides such differences to an acceptable level.
Performance characteristics. It is best to give preference to materials that are not only capable of creating a sound and heat-insulating barrier. In addition, it must be inedible and resist the formation of fungus and mold.

On the video, how to choose a substrate for a laminate:

Mechanical properties. This type of material must necessarily have physical resistance to damage, wear and even under heavy loads retain its original shape.
Mounting Features. The durability and longevity of the coating also depends on how the work will be performed. If the installation of the laminate will be carried out by professionals, you can choose any material. If you plan to do it yourself, you definitely need practical experience, as well as the ability to correct some installation flaws.
Presence of a heating system. Installing underfloor heating significantly limits the choice of suitable materials. This is also a minus, but such a criterion will be very important when choosing.

You can also go the easier way and "consult" with the manufacturer. Typically, the instructions for certain types of laminate offer a list suitable types substrates and even a two-in-one option. Such a set, as a rule, is more expensive, but it is also as close as possible to the desired characteristics and does not cause difficulties during installation.

Installation and its features

If all the materials have already been purchased and the time has been chosen, you can safely proceed with the installation of the flooring. This process will take a certain period, and will also require utmost concentration and patience. Having prepared everything you need in advance and having studied the features of the material, you can proceed with the installation.

On the video how to lay the substrate under the laminate:

The nuances of laying the substrate:

The material must be brought under doorjamb. This will ensure that there is no squeaking and sagging during operation.
When buying, you need to add about 10 - 15 percent for possible waste and marriage.
It is necessary to start installation from the far corner of the room.
If necessary, cutouts are made for configurations heating pipes and resized rooms.
When adjusting the dimensions, excess parts are trimmed, the material cannot be bent.
It is necessary to cut the substrate in place, using an accurate measuring tool and preliminary marking.
Fixing sheets and roll material between themselves is carried out with the help of construction tape. It is forbidden to use fasteners, even construction stapler so that the surface of the floor is smooth and without flaws.
It is necessary to process with adhesive tape the places of all joints, otherwise there is a high risk of heat loss and moisture penetration inside.
After laying the substrate, it is imperative to vacuum the surface to remove construction debris and dust.

Choosing worthy option to level the rough layer, you need to pay attention to the products of leading manufacturers. Usually these companies also specialize in the production of laminate, so their products are the most suitable for each other.

Rating of the best

Premium Cork- natural cork, has high technical characteristics, but an additional hydrobarrier is required. The cost will be from 145 rubles / m².
In the photo - Premium Cork laminate underlay
Isoplast- wood fiber board conifers trees. Well absorbs noise and vibrations, can even out minor differences in the floor during installation. Price from 55 rubles / m².
In the photo - Parkolag laminate flooring
IsoPolin- polyester material with an additional rigid base. Average price category and ease of installation. The cost is 55 rubles / m².
In the photo - IsoPolin laminate underlay
Tuplex- composite substrate made of polyethylene and polystyrene. Differs in good technological properties and ease at installation. The price will be around 95 rubles / m².
In the photo - a substrate for Tuplex laminate

The underlayment of a laminate floor when performing flooring is as important as the characteristics of the coating itself. The problem-free and long-term operation of the floor covering depends on it. Having studied information about possible types and nuances when installing this material, you can safely use the knowledge gained when self-fulfillment similar works.

Substrate thickness and other theoretical information

Perhaps the most common misconception among buyers is the belief that the thicker the substrate, the better. Allegedly, it will be softer to walk and the load on the parquet board or laminate will be less. This is not true. According to the standard, the maximum height difference when laying laminate and parquet boards is 2 mm per 2 m². This includes both the drop of the base itself and the shrinkage of the substrate. Soft materials such as foam backing or cork backing will compress when pressed. The larger the layer of such a substrate, the greater the height difference. The difference in height creates play on the locks of the laminate or parquet board, which causes increased wear of the lock joint and the appearance of a creak. What is most offensive is that the parquet board creaks and the lock does not break off immediately, but after a few months without the possibility of timely detection of a laying defect.

Based on the above, the standard substrate thickness is 2 mm. Such a thickness, with a well-leveled base, even with complete damage or the absence of a substrate fragment (for example, due to poor-quality laying or underlay strips that have parted) allows you to keep within the standard allowable difference. Please note that most parquet board manufacturers state in their laying requirements that a cork underlayment with a thickness of 2 mm is required. With a non-standard substrate, even in a warranty case, the manufacturer may refuse, but in practice, the manufacturer only cares about the thickness.

Stores often sell cork 4, 6 or 8 mm thick, but such materials are not intended by manufacturers for laying laminate and parquet boards.

Another myth is that the base can be leveled with a substrate. Substrates for laminate and parquet board perfectly follow the shape of all floor irregularities. To level the floor in cases where it is impossible to use hardening mixtures (often due to saving work time), it is necessary to use solid materials - either gypsum or other sheets, or moisture-resistant traditional plywood.

Almost all types of substrates (except for Tuplex and based on bituminous mastic) have a porous structure that is not protected from moisture. When laying on plywood or leveling dry sheets, additional moisture insulation is not required. If parquet boards and laminate flooring are laid on a screed, dew appears on the surface of the screed due to the temperature difference, therefore it is highly recommended to lay polyethylene film 200 microns thick or slightly thicker with a wide overlap.

More often, the substrate was sold not in rolls, but in sheets. For example, a cork. No benefits or convenience sheet materials when laying, no, except for a greater profit for the manufacturer.

Propylene foam backing

The cheapest substrate, which is often bought under the laminate. Nothing particularly bad can be said at first glance - it satisfies the requirements for laying, does not react to moisture. One caveat - the collapse of the foamed propylene occurs on average after 7-10 years, after which the substrate turns into powder, losing the necessary properties of hydro and thermal insulation. In addition, foamed propylene rolls may lie in storage for a couple of years before being sold to the consumer. All foamed polymers are flammable, much more dangerous than wood, especially when you take into account the high toxicity, as a result of which the use of such a substrate is prohibited in many buildings.

Cork backing

Traditional underlay for parquet boards. Cork is the best natural sound and heat insulator and a completely natural product, so really great material. The only serious minus of the cork is that it swells from water. The cork underlay is available in different thicknesses; under the parquet board and laminate, only a cork underlay with a thickness of 2 mm should be used. If the substrate is thinner, it crumbles, significantly reducing the life of floating floors. If the cork is thicker, there is an excessive load on interlock connection. The lack of moisture protection should not significantly affect the choice, because. the inner layers of the parquet board, and even more so the laminate, are much more afraid of moisture. If the cork substrate is laid on a concrete screed or self-leveling floor, be sure to lay a 200 micron thick polyethylene film with a wide overlap on the bottom and walk along the joints with moisture-proof tape.

Sometimes you can find exotics in stores - a cork substrate with a ready-made polyethylene layer. Good, but the cost is too high, it's easier to buy two layers separately.

Substrate Duplex

Substrate Duplex - a material of three layers. The bottom layer is a porous film that allows moisture to pass from below into the middle layer. The middle layer is stuffed with expanded polystyrene (styrofoam) balls that maintain a constant layer height. Between the balls there is an air layer with good ventilation. Upper layer- polyethylene film.

Together, this is especially effective in case of insufficiently dried screed or if there is condensation on the screed due to intermittent heating of the room. Moisture penetrates through the pores into the middle layer and is well ventilated through the air ducts along the perimeter of the room in the places of gaps between the parquet board and the wall. Thus, the risk of damage to the parquet is significantly reduced.

Tuplex underlay is by far the best “lazy” underlay for parquet boards and laminate if you don’t want to look for waterproofing polyethylene under the cork. Duplex has a price approximately equal to the cork substrate, however, it is usually supplied in rolls of 33 m², which is not always convenient. If desired, you can find rolls of 10 m² in stores. Tuplex in any case guarantees waterproofing, regardless of the professionalism of the installers, so parquet manufacturers like to recommend such a substrate (Karelia and Kahrs, for example).

Bituminous substrate

Substrate based on bituminous mastic - a new product on Russian market, but actively promoted by several networks of parquet salons. The main advantages are noise, heat, moisture insulation. We confirm that these advantages exist, but the sellers are silent about one thing - bituminous mastic emits formaldehyde in large quantities, especially in hot weather or when laid near heat pipes. Because of this feature, bitumen-based materials are banned in many countries and institutions. Recently, in Moscow and a number of regions, it was forbidden to use bituminous materials for roofing, huge amounts of money are being invested to convert asphalt with bitumen into paving slabs just because of environmental issues.

Coniferous substrate

Actively promoted product on the Russian market. The thickness of the substrate is 4-7 mm, so you automatically lose the warranty for parquet or laminate. In any dispute, the parquet manufacturer will say that you have used a non-recommended underlay, regardless of who is at fault in your case. The main problem - an attempt by companies promoting a coniferous substrate to sit on two chairs - is recommended both as a material for the base (i.e. a competitor to GVL, OSB and plywood), and as a damper (other substrates). The material cannot fulfill both purposes, because. in the first case, the rigidity of the material is required, and in the second, softness. Below is a press release from one of the popular manufacturers of softwood substrates with technologist's comments.

"Completely environmentally friendly material that does not contain chemical elements." Debatable. Due to what particles of needles are kept, what is the composition of the glue / resin?
"Removes uneven floors up to 3 mm, depending on the thickness of the substrate." For what? If due to softness, then an additional load on the locks (the service life of parquet / laminate is reduced, creaking, cracks at the ends may appear).
“The porosity of the softwood substrate prevents moisture from accumulating under the floor covering and weathers it, passing it through itself, which prevents the appearance of mold and fungus.” No, the author does not understand the issue. For the occurrence of a fungus, you need: a) the absence sunlight; b) absence of drafts; c) the presence of a nutrient medium. Everyone has A and B, but cellulose is just a breeding ground for the fungus. The use of pine needles increases the possibility of fungus. Or glue is used that closes the cellulose, which is not immediately environmentally friendly.
“Over time, it does not dry out and does not sag.” Debatable. Due to what then aligns, if not sags?
"Aligns the humidity in the room by absorbing or releasing moisture when it is deficient in the surrounding air." This is a reference to the properties of wood. Then fungus.

Backing with a foil layer

The foil layer is a good hydro-, heat-, noise insulator and is rather an improved version of the original substrate material. The foil is usually a polyethylene foam substrate, the main qualities of such a substrate are described above. Foil underlay is recommended for laying on logs with rigid fixation of the board, as well as for inexpensive laminate with a service life of about 10 years.

Which underlay is best?

In our opinion, it is better to use either Tuplex or cork underlay under laminate and parquet board (with or without a polyethylene layer, depending on the base). Yes, and cork is the best substrate for underfloor heating.

We hope our underlayment review will save you and your floor.

Distribution of such building material, like a laminate, deservedly so because of its undoubted advantages: long service life, simple laying technology, aesthetic appearance and comfortable use as a floor covering. Laying requires minimal preparation of the floor, but without the use of a special underlay, the life of the laminate can be significantly reduced. A properly installed substrate will not allow it to deform, enhances the thermal insulation of the room and protects it from moisture. Its main functional purpose is to dampen vibrations that inevitably arise when walking on the floor. Which one to choose?

Kinds

All types of substrates for laminate flooring have approximately the same characteristics, but each of them has its own advantages, on the basis of which a particular type can be selected for installation in a particular room.

Cork

The cork substrate can be made in three main versions:

Cork cloth - consists of pressed natural cork chips. Absolutely environmentally friendly material that is not afraid of mold or rot.
Rubber cork - a mixture of cork and rubber granules. The material has the smallest percentage of change in its properties over time.
Bitumen-cork (Parkolag) - a three-layer material consisting of kraft paper, bituminous mixture and cork chips. The disadvantage is that bitumen smell can spread in well-heated rooms and especially in rooms with heated floors.

Advantages:

Environmental friendliness.
Unlimited service life.
The best soundproofing.
Thickness - in standard flats only 2 mm thick can be used.

Disadvantages:

Due to its high rigidity, it requires a perfectly flat floor.
Afraid of large water leaks.
Mandatory use of polyethylene film as the bottom layer of the substrate.
Relatively high cost.

The natural cork backing will ideal option for flooring in bedrooms and children's rooms.

Polyethylene foam

The most common option due to ease of installation, low cost and unpretentiousness of the material during operation. When using it, you should not be afraid of the occurrence of condensate and, as a result, mold. A significant drawback is its fragility, over time it loses its elasticity and shrinks, which leads to the formation of voids. If after a couple of years of operation there is no desire to open the floors to replace it, then you should not opt for this option. Most often, such a substrate is used for the delivery of budget facilities - when there are no increased requirements for the quality of materials, and savings are more important than technical characteristics.

extruded polystyrene

Extruded polystyrene is somewhat more expensive than polyethylene foam, and surpasses it in performance characteristics such as deformation over time, creasing and sound insulation. Cons - the laborious laying process, the highest toxicity during combustion, the decrease in all technical characteristics after 2-3 years and their complete loss after 10 years. The use of extruded polystyrene with a thickness of more than 3 mm will lead to even more quick loss all qualities. Concrete can serve as an ideal base for laying.

foil

This type of substrate is a material consisting of two layers (total thickness - 3 mm):

Basis - polyethylene in the made foam look. The main advantages of this layer are excellent thermal insulation and sound insulation, low hygroscopicity.
outdoor - aluminium foil under polypropylene film. Thanks to this layer, it is protected from mechanical influences and the effects of organic liquids, including acids, alkalis and solvents.

The disadvantage is the high cost. The costs will be justified if it is planned to install underfloor heating in the room. This type reflects heat well (its location is correct - foil up) and helps to significantly save money on space heating.

Composite "Tuplex"

It is a kind of "sandwich", consisting of two layers of film and the middle layer - granulated polystyrene. Thickness, only 3 mm. Possesses everyone useful properties required for its intended use.

Advantages:

Elasticity - hides possible unevenness of the subfloor.
Good sound insulation - muffles impacts on the laminate.
Low thermal resistance - can be used in rooms with heated floors.
Prevents mold and rot.
Keeps all the qualities throughout all term of operation (20 years).

There is only one significant drawback - the highest cost, which scares off most potential buyers.

fiberglass

Not the most common type, although it does not have tangible drawbacks. Advantages: environmental friendliness and increased strength to mechanical stress. It is used in tandem with a thin (up to 5 mm) laminate on almost any surface (concrete, wood).

ISOPLAT

An interesting piece of material softwood. A substrate made of such a material resembles cork in its properties and technical characteristics. The distribution of ISOPLATE is problematic due to its large thickness - at least 5 mm, and also because of the inconvenience during transportation and installation.

Which one to choose?

When choosing, the fundamental points are the financial capabilities of the buyer, the relief of the subfloor and the recommendations of the laminate manufacturers.

Most laminate manufacturers refuse to consider quality claims for their products if the type of substrate used has not been successfully tested by their company. Therefore, first of all, the choice should be guided by the recommendations of the manufacturer.

abandon the polyethylene foam substrate;
choose a substrate maximum thickness 3 mm;
use plastic wrap as a moisture barrier on a rough concrete floor;
use only one type of substrate in one room without combining it in a horizontal plane.

Nuts

An important point in maintaining high performance properties is the sills. First of all, their purpose is to protect the seams from moisture, dust, dirt and chemical substances. In rooms with possible high humidity and the risk of spilling large volumes of water, the threshold is not so much a decorative element as an important functional detail. In such rooms, rubber sills should be used paired with high-quality sealant. In the rest of the rooms, you can get by with wooden or metal sills without additional sealing of the seam.

High-quality related materials are the key to long-term and comfortable operation of the laminate.

Laminate on present stage refers to popular and cheap floor coverings. It is characterized by high strength and durability. The construction markets have wide selection material. You can choose budget or elite option. It is possible to be guided by color and pattern. And if you decide to finish the floor with this coating, then you need to know which substrate for the concrete floor under the laminate can be used. AT this review this is exactly what will be discussed.

Why is it necessary to use linings?

The substrate is required without fail according to the floating floor technology. The quality of the coating will depend on this. In addition, there are several reasons for recommending the use of an underlay.

Soundproofing. If you do not use bedding under the material, then every step you take will be given into the concrete floor. With the help of a soft and even layer, it will be possible to hide small noises or friction. There is also a coating in which the substrate is embedded. It is not necessary to lay additional material on a concrete floor under a laminate in such situations. We are talking about coverage of 32 and 33 classes. However, its cost is quite high.
With the help of a pad surface can be leveled. This is important quality which should not be forgotten. It plays special role at the moment The durability of the locks will depend entirely on the evenness of the base. According to the technology, the differences should not exceed 2 mm per 1 meter. It should also be noted that if the substrate on the concrete floor under the laminate is too thick, then it is unlikely that it will be possible to hide the bumps. At the joints at the moment of walking, it will begin to bend. If there is no desire to change the coating in six months, then the surface must be carefully prepared for laying.
Moisture isolation. When creating a laminate, pressed paper is used. Therefore, even the most moisture-resistant models should not be tested. Otherwise, the panels will simply swell. The substrate on the concrete floor under the laminate will help to form additional protection from moisture. Before proceeding with the laying of the material, you must wait about a month after it was made concrete screed. The readiness of the base can be checked with polyethylene. Lay it on the floor at night. If there was no moisture on the concrete in the morning, then you can start laying.
Thermal conductivity. The bedding material has good thermal insulation properties. If you lay it under a warm floor, then the efficiency of its functioning will be reduced. There are special pads that should be used in such a situation.

What factors should be considered when choosing?

At the present stage, in almost any hardware store a specific substrate under the laminate can be selected. The price of this material varies in different ranges. How to make the right choice? After all, substrates can differ not only in cost, but also in the material used, thickness and sound insulation.

First of all, you need to find out what condition the floor is in. If the base is even, then the thickness of the substrate can be equal to 2 mm. If there are slight irregularities, then a choice should be made in favor of the bedding, the thickness of which is 3 mm. Together with the laminate, this figure will reach approximately 11 mm, if we take the average parameters.

When choosing a specific material for coating, it is not necessary to give preference to the manufacturer who designed the laminate you are using. It does not matter. Any company can do it. Some particularly popular materials should be listed.

Cheap lining option

The lining made of polyethylene foam has gained great popularity. What is the fame that this substrate enjoys? Its price is the lowest. But, regardless of this, it is characterized by good resistance to moisture, excellent thermal insulation properties. In addition, the substrate of this material is not affected by rodents and microorganisms. All costs will be kept to a minimum, as the litter is easy to install. Often it is supplemented with a foil layer with aluminum. This helps reflect infrared rays.

Disadvantages of polyethylene foam

This substrate also has disadvantages, which are quite a lot. First of all, not quite environmentally friendly synthetic materials are used in its manufacture. Over time, the shape of the litter will change. The material will begin to sag, losing its shape. In some situations, after laying the main coating on such a lining, it begins to form. Therefore, when buying, you need to think several times whether the savings of 500 rubles are worth it.

The cheapest option is a laminate underlay made by domestic manufacturers. Price per roll of 25 sq. meters reaches about 400 rubles. will cost 100 rubles more per square meter.

Expensive cork material

Not sure which underlay to choose for laminate flooring? Pay attention to cork bedding. They are perfect for floating floors. This is a natural material. However, it is not susceptible to mold, rot. Great for insulating heat. Throughout the entire period of service, the substrate will not lose its size and characteristics. This material is sold in the form of rolls. There is also a sheet substrate under the laminate. There are types that reverse side have a self-adhesive layer.

The substrate is characterized by high cost. For this reason, it is not advisable to use it together with cheap coatings. However, the durability of the products is high. Among the shortcomings, in addition to the price, water permeability should be highlighted. For this reason, condensation may appear under the coating.

Bituminous lining under the laminate

The substrate can be made on the basis of kraft paper with the addition of a material such as bitumen. From above the lining is covered with small cork chips. Through the use of bitumen this species litter does not have the disadvantages that characterize the sheet underlayment under the cork laminate. The bituminous lining does not pass moisture, is capable to detain sounds. The material will breathe, which prevents the formation of condensate. As in the case of cork, it is advisable to use this type of lining only with an expensive coating. This is due to its high cost.

Extruded polystyrene foam

Quite often from a position insulating material extruded polystyrene foam can be used. It is perfect for those rooms that are characterized by a high load. With it, you can even out unevenness. Such a substrate is effective insulation due to the presence of a significant amount of air in its composition. Rigidity allows you to keep the shape, effectively absorbs sounds, prevents the penetration of moisture. By using styrofoam on the floor, you will get a comfortable walking experience.

Combined variant

Need a warm underlay for laminate flooring? Enough interesting option can be considered a combination of polyethylene with expanded polystyrene. Sale of such material is usually made in rolls. Its thickness reaches 3 mm. Due to its structure, such a substrate is able to ventilate the room. The top layer does not allow moisture to penetrate inside. The bottom layer passes it to the granules, through which it will come out with the help of special gaps.

New in construction stores

Coniferous litter for coating - a novelty. It is very difficult to find because high cost. However, sometimes Isoplat can come across - a substrate for a laminate, which is completely environmentally friendly. In addition, it is able to pass air. For this reason, no greenhouse effect will be created under the coating. However, the elasticity of the needles is noticeably inferior to the elasticity of the cork material. It is also necessary to take into account the factor that the thickness of the tiles reaches 4-5 mm. This is contrary to many of the requirements put forward by laminate manufacturers. Tiles should be laid diagonally.

What should be taken into account when installing? Reviews

Now we should tell about how the substrate is laid under the people who were able to do this, they will help to understand this issue.

If the concrete screed is fresh, then thin polyethylene should be laid before laying. If the house is old, then this procedure is not mandatory.
Thoroughly clean the floor from debris, dirt. In addition, the substrate must be completely dry.
For cutting, you should use ordinary scissors or a construction knife. You have to do the overlap on the walls. Then it can be closed with a plinth.
It is not recommended to lay several layers at once to compensate for unevenness. One is enough. If it is not possible to close the irregularities with the help of the material, then the base will need to be leveled first.
If the material has a corrugation, then it should be directed downwards. In such a situation, it will be possible to hide some irregularities. The foil lining should be laid with the reflective side up.
It is recommended to make the laying end-to-end. There should be no overlaps with each other. For fastening should be used. This will help prevent the material from shifting.

Conclusion

If all the recommendations voiced above are taken into account during the laying of the material, then the laminate can last for a very long time. Naturally, the final choice in favor of a certain substrate must be made, guided by one's own financial capabilities. However, we must try to purchase only high-quality and natural products. Otherwise new renovation may be required within six months.