The subsoil is the lowest structure in the ground, providing a flat and stable surface and supporting the real floor. The subfloor is different from the subfloor in that it rests between the subfloor and the real floor. The floor finish (also known as the floor covering) that you see and walk on can include options such as ceramic tiles, solid wood, laminate, engineered wood, luxury vinyl, rugs, or other surface material. This finishing floor material can also be changed if necessary, but it does not provide structural support.
If you were to remove the floor covering, you would see a more permanent floor layer, possibly the subfloor or subfloor. Both of these are there to support and stabilize the entire floor structure. The subfloor is a multipurpose product that protects both the subfloor and the pavement. It is not an optional ingredient when cooking good soil.
When you step on a floor, there are many things that are needed to make it robust, resilient and safe. There are several layers that make up the floors, including the top layer that covers the floor (hardwood, laminate, vinyl, carpet, etc.). In some cases, a special surface between the subfloor and the finished floor is required. This material is known as underlayment.
It helps dampen sound, keep the subfloor protected in case of flooding, and make the floor comfortable to walk on all day long. When an old house has been extensively remodeled, it's common to see many layers of old and new floors if the time and labor cost needed to remove the unnecessary layers of the floor were prohibitive. This method includes three layers of floors that support what is called the finishing floor (the one you see and the one you walk on). Acoustics are a big consideration when placing floors in busy family spaces, offices, or in flats between rental suites.
The type and thickness of the floor layers must be determined if the finishing floor is to be replaced. Vinyl flooring is one of the most durable options on the market. But for everything else, what you use as a base varies depending on the floor you are going to install. Confusion between the subfloor and underlayment can be avoided by understanding their differences.
The subfloor provides structural support while underlayment helps dampen sound, keep the subfloor protected in case of flooding, and make the floor comfortable to walk on all day long. Knowing which type of underlayment is best for each type of flooring will help ensure a successful installation.
