Choosing Underlayment for Laminate Flooring on a Concrete Floor: 5 Things to Note

When installing laminate flooring, it is wise to choose underlayment. This is especially true when it comes to installing it over a concrete subfloor.

Laminate may not perform as expected without proper underlayment, resulting in moisture damage, noise, and discomfort underfoot.

So, how do you select the appropriate underlayment? We have broken it down into five main points.

Let’s get started.

 

5 Reasons to Get Underlayment for Laminate Flooring on Concrete

Choosing the right underlayment for laminate flooring on a concrete subfloor needs careful consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

 

1. Moisture Barrier

Moisture protection is one of the most important aspects to consider when installing underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete. This is one of the top reasons to consider underlayment in the first place.

Although laminate floors are fantastic, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause them to perform less effectively. If your concrete subfloor can absorb moisture from the ground (a problem mostly in basements), it can seep into the laminate flooring, causing cupping, swelling and even mould.

That’s why looking for an underlayment with a built-in vapour barrier is important. This will help you to protect your laminate flooring from moisture damage.

 

2. Noise Reduction

Have you noticed a hollow echo or sound when walking on laminate flooring? That’s because laminate floors are not good at absorbing sound. When installing laminate flooring on concrete, look for an underlayment with sound insulation.

This is especially helpful if you live in a multi-story building where noise travels easily through the floors. Materials like foam or felt are great for sound insulation and can significantly reduce noise transfer.

 

3. Cushioning and Comfort

Let’s face it. Concrete isn't the most comfortable surface to walk on. Installing laminate flooring on it is only half the battle; adding a good layer of underlayment creates cushioning and makes it more comfortable.

This is especially important if you are installing laminate in your basement or kitchen, as a good underlayment layer makes walking on more comfortable every day.

 

4. Thermal Insulation

Toronto winters can be very cold, and a concrete floor can turn the space colder. While installing laminate flooring over concrete helps minimize that, the underlayment layer truly offers thermal insulation.

Cork or foam underlayments are frequently recommended because of their insulating qualities. These qualities keep floors warmer and can lower energy costs.

 

5. Levelling

Concrete subfloors are not perfectly smooth, and uneven surfaces can cause laminate floors to shift or dent, which can cause flooring issues over time. Installing underlayment over concrete helps to level the floor and fill any small cracks and dips, allowing for a smooth installation.

Choosing an underlayment with a self-levelling feature ensures that your laminate planks will be flat and stable, reducing flooring issues considerably.

 

Shopping for underlayment for your laminate flooring is always a good idea. Installing one can help your floors last longer and get you the best value for your money. However, if you find the idea of shopping for underlayment overwhelming, consult a flooring expert at your nearest home renovation store to get started.