What is underlayment? Do you need underlayment? Yes, you do! Every single time, with the only exception being a glued-down flooring with adhesives that contain properties equivalent to an underlayment.
Underlayment is a layer of asphalt paper, rubber, foam, or cork that is required before hardwood, engineered, or organic flooring installations. It is often used to regulate or minimize natural movement caused by seasonal humidity changes. The standard use is asphalt paper or roofing paper. Some brands and varieties refer to it as a moisture or vapor barrier. These papers are essential prior to installation, lest you void the warranty from your flooring manufacturer.
Don't worry. Any skilled installer will guide you through this affordable option. Usually, at about $25.00 on average per roll and allotting 500 square feet or more, you will rarely spend more than $100.00 for underlayment. There are also upgrade options to address acoustical and insulative properties, and we will address those too.
But what about vinyl or laminates? Well, they too often require an underlayment, usually made from recycled rubber, cork, or foam. These underlayments help keep the "floating floor" stationary after installation and deplete or minimize any hollow or tapping sounds. Nearly all luxury vinyl floors are built in with their own underlayment. Usually cork and sometimes poly-foam, they are excellent barriers with many benefits. Laminate flooring rarely comes built-in with an underlayment.
Premium underlayments such as cork, rubber, or engineered varieties are always possible and available for sale to use under any new flooring installation. They are added as a measure to control the temperatures of your new floor and the way sound moves through the room or off the new covering.
Underlayment is a very good investment for your Columbus flooring project and is usually affordable. We look forward to providing more insight into underlayments at our consultation with you!