Installing a lower layer between the wet subfloors and the floor surface is essential for the integrity of your laminate flooring. Without it, moisture can cause the floor to deform and form mold, and the footsteps on the ground will sound louder. Different types and thicknesses of subfloors are available, and it's important to use only the type specifically designed for this purpose. Most manufacturers recommend using a bottom layer of up to 3 mm thick.
You may not always find your favorite subfloor pre-attached to the boards, so it's time to look at the options separately to get the exact floor you want. Floors that lack a subfloor may have a reduced acoustic effect due to falling or dragging objects across the floor, footsteps, random impacts, common noises and much more. Many people underestimate the value of their laminate subfloor until they set foot for the first time on a new floor on a bare subfloor. If the subfloor underneath the vinyl floor is concrete, you should install a subfloor that has a vapor barrier attached to it.
Even so, buying laminate flooring with a separate underlayer is something to consider, as it gives you more control over the installation and expands your options. Floor coverings are a product that provides exceptional protection and support for your new surfaces. If you are going to place on a wooden subfloor and your laminate already has the pad in place, you will not need any more subfloor. The laminated underlayers help cushion and cushion minor imperfections, creating a uniform surface that looks and feels even.
Jackie, normally the plastic faces the concrete and the felt part faces up, however, I don't know which manufacturer manufactured the bottom layer, so I would check with the manufacturer about it. If you already have a suitable underlayer for your floor, you can use a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from entering the subfloor. Having an adequate base layer will help protect the soil from the weather and prevent it from deforming due to expansion. Installing the floor subfloor is as easy as counting to three - all you have to do is measure, cut and place the padding. A carpet base cannot be used to install laminate flooring, too thick padding can damage or make the locking system unstable, so stay away from it.
