One of the most common flooring today is laminate flooring. Since the Swiss company invented it in the 80s of the XX century, the material has undergone many significant changes. Today, manufacturers provide a huge selection of textures, colors and quality panels. Laminate flooring is almost as good as parquet. Simplicity of installation and maintenance, beautiful appearance, durability, comfort - all these qualities of the material attract consumers.
So that the operation of the flooring does not cause problems, it is necessary to lay the substrate under the laminate. Without it, even high-quality material will not bring the desired effect and will not last long. Cork substrate for the laminate, according to experts, is one of the best. Thanks to her, the life of the coating will increase significantly, there will be no complaints about it.
Why do I need a substrate for a
laminate? The types of panels are diverse, but even the highest quality and thickest ones require a perfectly even floor. Laminate forms a separate layer and does not fasten to the base, so if the floor is too curved, then in some places you can hear a characteristic knock. This results in reduced coverage. If the curvature is slight, about 3 mm, then the substrate for the laminate will help to solve this problem. Cork litter in this case is most effective, although you can use polyethylene or foil.
In addition to smoothing irregularities, the cork substrate for the laminate also performs a cushioning function. If the panels are placed on the draft floor, a clattering sound will appear , it will be very difficult to walk quietly on such a floor, except perhaps barefoot or in soft slippers. The backing will not allow the panels to hit the floor and will soften the steps. In addition, it allows you to significantly insulate the floor. The cork underlay under the laminate also absorbs noise emanating from operating household appliances.
Although there are quite a few types of substrates, most experts advise choosing from cork oak. It is, of course, more expensive, but you should not save on quality. The cork underlay under the laminate fully justifies its price, since it performs all its functions flawlessly. There are several types of such a substrate, but all of them have high heat and sound insulation properties, protect the laminate from decay and moisture. Available in the form of rolls or sheets.
The most common substrate is made of pressed cork chips. There is also a cork-rubber option made from a
mixture of rubber and cork chips. Such a substrate reduces vibration from the operation of household appliances, prevents the formation of mold on the laminate. A bitumen-cork option is also possible. The substrate is produced by applying cork chips to bitumen-impregnated kraft paper. For ventilation of the space between the laminate and the substrate, the latter lies down with powder. Having chosen bitumen-cork, waterproofing materials can not be used.
Cork backing improves the performance of any laminate, not even the highest quality. Although, if you already spend money on an expensive substrate, then it is necessary that the flooring also corresponds to it. Using quality materials once, you can enjoy the result for many years.