The underlay for laminate flooring comes in different materials and can vary in cost. The main purpose of the underlayment is to absorb noise and add some slight cushion to the flooring. Before you start installing laminate flooring, you need to consider what type of underlay you might need.
The more you know about how your current floor is constructed, the easier you’ll be able to make purchasing decisions and prolong the life of your new floor. Floors are made up of a top and a bottom. Although we only see and sometimes think about the top surface, you also need to consider what is underneath the surface of your flooring.
If you’ve already chosen to go with laminate flooring then choosing the best underlay for your laminate flooring is essential. Here are some things to consider:
- Before going to look for your underlay for laminate flooring, take your time and first consider your current sub-floor. Is it a wood sub floor or a concrete slab? Determine the type of material and structure, any kind of damage which it has or might develop, and any amount of moisture that might be below the surface.
- To ensure that the underlayment is going to operate effectively, your sub-floor needs to be as level and also as clean as it can be. If it is a concrete one, fill any gaps which exist by using a concrete compound filling mixture or skim coat, and remove any kind of carpet or carpet glue, as well as other left over materials. If it is a wood sub-floor, properly nail all of the boards and make use of plywood sheets if required to even out the surface.
- If the humidity in your area is high or if it rains a lot over the course of the year, be sure to use a water proof filler substance to fill any gaps in the sub-floor. Make sure to provide it with plenty of time to dry before moving forward with the job.
- According to your financial budget and personal project requirements it is possible to select cork, foam, plywood or perhaps a mixture of these. Additional layers of sound absorbing material can be added or sound proofing engineered plywood can be purchased for an additional cost. Typically you need to have the last option on upper floors in which sound is much more of an issue. Ground floors however will be more prone to moisture and so it is a good idea to purchase a good moisture insulation to underlay your laminate flooring.
- Prior to selecting the underlay for laminate flooring, find out if your own laminate flooring does not already include an underlay of its very own. Frequently Do-It-Yourself laminate flooring are pre-finished and do not need further customized underlay installation. Having said that, adding a custom layer of flooring to absorb shock and sound is always a good option. It will help lessen the “hard” sensation and lower the hollow sound noises which are so common whenever walking over laminate.
- A waterproof membrane is essential if you have a competent sub-floor, particularly if it is a brand new one. Wood sub-floors however have to take in air to prevent the build-up associated with mold. The installation of foam to even out irregularities and make a cushion is usually enough in these certain instances.
Amazon is a great place to shop online if you are looking to buy laminate flooring underlay material and have it delivered to your door. The material comes in rolls and you can choose different material based on the job you are doing. Some are rated better for sound absorption, some are better for hard wood floors, some have self adhesive for easy installation, etc.
Here are 3 of the better rated products available on Amazon.
 
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Roberts 2-In-1 Underlayment For Laminate And Wood Floors, Blocks Moisture, Cushions, 100 Sq. Foot Roll |
 
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Harmony 100-Square Foot Roll Underlayment |
 
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Roberts 70-190 Super Felt Premium Felt Underlayment |