Flooring Underlayment Options

Underlayment Options

When you are using a floating flooring product (whether it be wood, laminate, cork, or bamboo)  you will need an underlayment.  If you are going over a concrete subfloor you will also need a vapor barrier (a 6mil plastic).  You will lay down the vapor barrier if necessary, tape the seams, then lay down your underlayment.  There are multiple underlayments available, and the higher end ones will absorb more sound and vibration and make your floor sound more solid.  This is true on both wooden or concrete subfloors.  Low end underlayments will still cover your warranty but tend toward a more hollow or "clicky/tap-dance" sound when you walk on your floor. 

6mm Cork (A close second for Favorite Category)  $.97/sf

Natural cork underlay provide exceptional sound reduction capabilities in addition to insulation and comfort underfoot. The cork is harvested from the bark of the Cork Oak tree without harm to the tree. An environmentally friendly option for naturally healthy living. Cork quiets both hardwood and laminate floors.

·          Environmentally friendly option

·          Meets condo requirements

·          Sound Performance: STC 52 - 66

3mm Cork  $.68/sf

Natural cork underlay provide exceptional sound reduction capabilities in addition to insulation and comfort underfoot. The cork is harvested from the bark of the Cork Oak tree without harm to the tree. An environmentally friendly option for naturally healthy living. Cork quiets both hardwood and laminate floors.

·          Environmentally friendly option

EVA with Vapor Barrier Film and seam tape  $.69/sf  (our favorite)

EVA has a 3mm thick rubber with an already attached vapor barrier.  Amazing sound protection for same and lower levels. Can use under both engineered wood floors, laminate and cork floating floors. Specifically for use with the floating floor installation method, Can be used on concrete, wood, or plywood subfloors.

·          STC 73, IIC 72

·          Really high sound ratings will be approved for all home/condo associations

Redux Underlayment  $.50/sf  (our 2nd favorite)

Our Redux underlayment reduces same room foot traffic noise as well as reduces sound transmission to adjacent rooms and lower levels. Can use under both engineered wood floors, laminate and cork floating floors. Specifically for use with the floating floor installation method, Redux provides a quieter surface by absorbing under floor vibration.2.5mm thickness

·          Mold and mildew resistant as well as non allergenic

·          Sound Performance: STC 55

Royal Walker®  $.59/sf

A premium underlayment developed to reduce noise transmission for use under both hardwood and laminate floors. The unique engineering of this underlay allow it to interact with the floor system itself in a manner that produces a sound similar to that of traditional wood flooring.

·          Exceeds recommended moisture permeability ratings for installation over concrete slabs

·          Sound Performance: STC 53

Silver series 3 in 1 (Moderate)  $.32/sf

The silver series 3 in 1 is a mid level laminate and hardwood flooring underlay. The silver series offers moderate sound absorption for laminate and hardwood flooring. The higher density 2mm thick foam comes with an foil moisture barrier backing. No additional moisture barrier is needed when using The Silver Series. This underlay is for use over both wooden or concrete subfloors.  The foil on this underlayment also adds insulating properties.

2 in 1 Combo Foam Film (Low end)  $.24/sf

The 2 in 1 Combo Foam Film is the standard laminate floating floor underlay. The 2 in 1 Combo foam film can also be used under solid or engineered real hardwood floors as well. The 2 in 1 is a 2mm thick foam with a pre-attached moisture barrier. This underlay can be used over both wooden or concrete subfloors.