Laminate flooring can be used immediately after installation. Laminate flooring can be installed over concrete, wood or carpet subfloor or other surfaces. It is highly recommended to install good quality underlayment. It is easy to install the underlayment, but it has to be done with care.
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Do you need underlay for laminate flooring on concrete?
With a concrete subfloor, you will need an underlayment that acts as a vapor barrier in order to prevent moisture from penetrating through to your laminate installation. The normal choice is a thin foam material that rolls out to a thickness of less than a quarter of an inch. If you choose to use a thicker material, it will be necessary to add an additional layer of insulation to the underside of the pad.
This layer should be about 3/8 inch thick. If you are using a polyurethane pad, this layer will also need to be thickened to about 2/3 of an inch to ensure that it does not become saturated with moisture. You may also want to consider adding an insulating layer on top of your pad to help prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
How do I prepare a concrete floor for laminate?
Typically, the floor must be level and uniform within 3/16 inch every 10 feet. Sand any high spots with a concrete grinder after you check your wood flooring manufacturer’s recommendations. Allow the leveling compound to cure for at least 24 hours after filling any low spots with it.
Do you glue laminate flooring to concrete?
Installing Laminate Flooring on Concrete Steps If you’ve got concrete stairs to cover, the laminate must be glued down using high-quality construction glue. A floating installation isn’t secure enough for stairs and could lead to falls. Vapor barrier or padding should not be used on concrete steps. If you don’t have a concrete staircase, you’ll need to install a laminated floor.
This is the most secure option, but it’s not as easy as it sounds. You’ll have to use a special type of construction adhesive, which can be expensive and time-consuming. It’s best to get a professional to do it for you.
Do you have to put a moisture barrier under laminate flooring?
No matter which underlayment you choose, if you are installing on a moisture prone subfloor or concrete subfloor, you really need a moisture barrier underlayment. If you want to protect your flooring from the elements for years to come, you need to install barriers under your floors.
What happens if you don’t put underlay under laminate?
If the subfloor in your home or property is uneven, then your laminate floor could move and shift if it doesn’t have an underlayment for support. The floor will be more prone to wear-and-tear as a result.
It is less likely that you will have to pay out of pocket for a new floor if you have more stability. Laminate floors are also more likely to warp if they’re not properly installed. If you don’t know how to properly install your floor, you could end up with a floor that’s more susceptible to damage.
Should you glue laminate flooring?
It’s still a widespread installation method despite the fact that glue isn’t always necessary. Glue is used to ensure your flooring remains durable. It is less likely that the plank will warp or crack because it is glued directly to the subfloor.
