The flooring is laid in strict accordance with the developed technology. Today, laminate is popular. It is convenient to operate, easy to care for. The appearance of the laminate and its durability to some extent depend on the correct selection of the substrate. Therefore, special attention is paid to this issue.
Types of substrates for a laminate: advantages and disadvantages
A huge range of products is produced by modern manufacturers. This allows you to find the most suitable type for each specific case. When choosing a substrate, pay attention to the following:
- material:
- cost;
- specifications.
Foamed polyethylene is the easiest solution. It is in demand among consumers due to its affordable price and its properties. Elastic elastic canvas has good thermal insulation, moisture resistance.
IMPORTANT! Foamed polyethylene is not susceptible to decay, mold does not appear on it.
The disadvantage is the ability to quickly ignite, to maintain combustion. Therefore, it is protected with flame retardants and other compounds that make it more resistant to high temperatures.
Foiled polyethylene foam has higher strength, thermal conductivity, moisture resistance than the previous version. It is often used for damp rooms. The insulation consists of foamed polyethylene and a layer of aluminum foil.
ATTENTION! Its installation is quick, but minor mechanical damage can cause loss of insulating ability.
The price of foil foamed polyethylene depends on its thickness, the presence of a self-adhesive layer, the length of the roll.
Extruded polystyrene is available in green sheets. It is characterized by resistance to stress, good sound insulation. If a fire occurs, toxic substances will begin to be released into the air. This feature must be taken into account when laying the coating and use special means that can protect the layer from ignition.
Cork option has the following advantages:
- good soundproofing properties;
- resistance to mechanical stress;
- natural material.
The surface of the base on which the material is laid must be flat. This insulation is afraid of dampness, therefore, a waterproofing layer is used with it.
Bitumen-cork substrate is provided with excellent sound insulation. The layer prevents condensation. The material is chosen for an expensive floor covering that can last a long time.
Coniferous substrate often breaks during transportation and laying. It is able to level the surface of the base, has good thermal insulation. The material is moisture resistant, but it should not be used in places where there is a likelihood of flooding.
IMPORTANT! The coniferous type strongly absorbs odors from the environment. Its disadvantages include the fact that insects can start inside, a fungus will appear.
The fiberglass backing will help to quickly and inexpensively solve the problem of laying flooring. It is an environmentally friendly material that has high mechanical resistance. It is easy to install, inexpensive. Before using it, you need to perfectly level the surface.
When laying the laminate, using an additional layer will help reduce the load on the material. The substrate is an important building block. Many characteristics of the floor covering depend on it. It performs such important functions:
- increases the life of the laminate;
- improves the properties of the material;
- provides uniformity of laying.
Incorrect installation of the laminate can lead to damage to the boards, the appearance of gaps and other defects. When walking on the floor you will hear the sound of footsteps, which can interfere with neighbors. To get rid of the problem, lay an additional layer. It is important that it has good soundproofing characteristics.
Businesses today produce products with a backing that attaches to each board. Such a product is much more expensive. It will be possible to save if you select a product yourself and perform styling.
ATTENTION! When buying, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's markings. The specifications are usually indicated on the packaging.
Laminate does not tolerate exposure to water. An additional layer is able to maintain the necessary microclimate for concrete screed. It performs moisture-proof fiction, helps to preserve heat in the room. An additional layer can smooth out the irregularities of the base on which the installation of the laminate is planned.
Before buying a material, you need to study its properties, analyze the information received. The substrate must be safe in the first place. It can be used to level the base before installing the laminate.
It is better to purchase options that create an excellent thermal insulation and sound barrier. Mold must not form on the insulation. It is necessary to give preference to products that are durable, are not afraid of significant loads.
If you plan to install a warm floor, then not every option is suitable for this. It is necessary to take into account the features of concrete screed:
- If the base has a flat surface, then 2 mm thick material is sufficient.
- In the presence of small defects, such a layer may not be enough, therefore, products of a greater thickness are acquired.
The substrate is selected depending on the goals to be achieved. It is important to consider its characteristics. The choice depends on whether it is planned to carry out the installation of the laminate on your own or whether specialists will do the work. High-quality substrate will ensure long-term operation of the floor covering.
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