Is Foam Underlay Good For Laminate Flooring?

If you are planning to install a laminate floor, you may be wondering if you need to use an underlay. An underlay is a layer of material that is placed between the subfloor and the laminate flooring. There are many different types of underlay available, but one of the most popular options is foam underlay. In this article, we will discuss whether foam underlay is a good choice for laminate flooring, and explore the benefits and drawbacks of using this type of underlay.

Before we dive into the details of foam underlay, let’s briefly discuss why underlay is important for laminate flooring. Laminate flooring is a floating floor, which means that it is not attached to the subfloor. Instead, the individual planks or tiles are interlocked and held in place by their own weight and the pressure of the surrounding planks. An underlay provides several important functions, including sound insulation, moisture protection, and cushioning. It also helps to level out any minor imperfections in the subfloor, ensuring that the laminate flooring sits flat and stable.

The Benefits of Foam Underlay

Foam underlay is a popular choice for laminate flooring, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of using foam underlay:

• Sound insulation: Foam underlay is an excellent sound insulator, helping to reduce noise transmission between floors. This is particularly important if you live in an apartment building or have young children or pets in your home.
• Moisture protection: Foam underlay can help to protect your laminate flooring from moisture damage, which can occur if there is any moisture in the subfloor. This is especially important in areas with high humidity or where there is a risk of water damage, such as kitchens or bathrooms.
• Cushioning: Foam underlay provides a comfortable cushioning layer underfoot, making your laminate flooring more comfortable to walk on. This can be especially beneficial if you spend a lot of time standing or walking on your floors.
• Easy to install: Foam underlay is relatively easy to install, even for DIY enthusiasts. It comes in rolls or sheets, which can be easily cut to size and laid out over the subfloor.

The Drawbacks of Foam Underlay

While foam underlay has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. These include:

• Less durable: Foam underlay is not as durable as some other types of underlay, such as rubber or cork. Over time, it may compress and lose its cushioning properties, which can lead to a less comfortable walking surface.
• Less environmentally friendly: Foam underlay is made from synthetic materials, which are not as environmentally friendly as natural materials such as cork or rubber. If you are concerned about the environmental impact of your flooring, you may want to consider a more sustainable underlay option.
• Less effective at leveling: Foam underlay is not as effective at leveling out minor subfloor imperfections as some other types of underlay, such as cork or rubber. This can result in a less stable and less comfortable walking surface.

Conclusion

So, is foam underlay a good choice for laminate flooring? The answer is that it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-install underlay that provides good sound insulation and moisture protection, foam underlay may be a good choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more durable or environmentally friendly option, you may want to consider other types of underlay. Ultimately, the best underlay for your laminate flooring will depend on your specific requirements and budget.