Laying a laminate involves the use of a substrate, due to which small irregularities of the floor surface are smoothed out, moisture insulation and insulation are provided. The modern construction market offers a substrate not only of various thicknesses, but also made of a wide variety of materials.
In choosing the thickness of the substrate should focus on the condition and quality of the subfloor. A 2mm thick backing is only permissible if the floor is in good condition. For concrete with small flaws, it is worth choosing a substrate 3 mm thick such as isoplates.
Polyethylene Foam Substrates
Polyethylene foam substrates have gained their popularity due to their high moisture resistance and good thermal insulation properties. The coating is not of interest to rodents, insects and fungi. Manufacturers of polyethylene foam substrates expanded their assortment by combining a layer with a metallized film based on aluminum.
Cork substrates
The use of this type of substrate under the laminate is relevant in the case of laying a floating floor and underfloor heating. Good insulating qualities, naturalness of the material and resistance to mold and microorganisms have made cork material a leader in this segment.
Issued in the form of sheets and rolls, convenient when laying in small areas. During the operational period does not lose its technical properties and linear dimensions. The disadvantages of the material can be considered the likelihood of condensation on the underside of the laminate and the high cost.
Bitumen-cork substrates
Kraft paper, bitumen and cork chips are the components of bitumen-cork films. Cork sprinkling is performed from pieces of 2-3 mm in size, which allows the coating to provide air exchange at the proper level and prevent the appearance of condensate. It is advisable to use such a substrate when laying an expensive laminate.
Polystyrene foam substrates
Extruded polystyrene foam is used as the main material for the substrate due to its ability to smooth out unevenness of the concrete base. Expanded polystyrene is the best insulation for a laminate floor. The closed structure of the material cells and the density provides high moisture resistance.
