Without a subfloor to provide a layer between the damp subfloors and the floor surface, laminate can quickly become wet, deformed and moldy, compromising its overall integrity. Over time, moisture can also break down the adhesive in the floor, causing it to start to deform. The subfloor on which the laminate is placed must be even. If not, a thick base coat should cover any imperfections and create a level surface.
If a base coat is not used, there is a risk that the laminate will be damaged if it is walked on frequently. You should also consider laying a vapor barrier underneath the bottom layer if the floor is in an area with high humidity. Laminate flooring manufacturers often recommend using a subfloor. What happens if you don't put padding under the laminate floor is that moisture that seeps through the subfloor can cause it to warp and develop mold. And footsteps will become more pronounced.
Many people underestimate the importance of their laminate subfloor until they step on a new floor on an exposed subfloor for the first time. Apartment complexes, condominiums, hotels, office buildings and more rely on comfort and privacy when so many people live in close proximity. Floors that have no subfloor can have reduced soundproofing from dropping objects or dragging them across the floor, footsteps, random impacts, regular noises and more. When all these noises are combined, they can have a significant impact on your work or home life. The base of the laminate floor can also significantly improve underfoot comfort.
This is especially true if it is placed on a concrete or brick subfloor. Despite the rigid nature of laminate planks, they will feel much softer (and warmer) with the addition of a quality base coat. While reusing an existing base layer may be tempting, using a carpet base layer with laminate flooring will cause long-term problems. Laminate flooring is resistant to moisture and minor flooding, as long as there is a layer of vapor barrier underneath the bottom layer. Installing a base layer evens out any irregularities in the subfloor, helping to ensure that the laminate is level and stable.
Even so, buying a laminate floor with an accompanying subfloor is something to consider as it gives you more control over installation and expands your options. If you don't use a base coat, your beautiful laminate floor will be prone to damage and wear. Instead of taking steps to install a vapor barrier, some DIYers choose to install their laminate floors without protection. Eco Cork Foam's thermal insulation rating ensures that your laminate floor is warm and inviting. Laminate flooring is an excellent choice for homes and commercial buildings in Chester, North Wales and Wrexham. The base layer helps the laminate planks to be distributed evenly throughout the subfloor and supports the locking system between planks to ensure that the floor is durable.
For example, Pergo, one of the leading manufacturers of laminate floors, now has a catalogue with pre-installed subfloors in most of its products. If you lay a laminate on top of a carpet base layer, the floor will become too spongy and bouncy which can damage the locking system and make it uncomfortable to walk on. Floor subfloors are products that provide exceptional protection and support for new surfaces. We recommend investing as much as you can in counterweight as performance usually increases with price.
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