Before you can install any hardwood flooring, you need to install underlayment first. Some people might say that it is optional, but actually it is very recommended to use one. So, most of the time underlayment for solid hardwood floor is required than not.
Decide Whether Underlayment for Solid Hardwood Floor is Needed or Not
If you still have some doubt in whether you need to install underlayment for solid hardwood floor or not then you might need to see this. First you need to pay attention to the structure of your flooring.
If there is subflooring made from plywood then you need to see the condition. If the subfloor is already level and smooth then you do not actually need to install underlayment. The plywood will be able to resist the moist and usually the surface already smooth.
Having plywood subfloor means you would not have any problem to install the solid hardwood floor directly. However, if you want to, you can still install the underlayment for solid hardwood floor. Furthermore, the underlayment actually gives you a lot of benefits.
Benefits of Installing Hardwood Floor Underlayment
1. Provides barrier from moisture
The main reason why underlayment for solid hardwood floor is needed is usually moisture problem. With the underlayment your solid hardwood flooring will be protected so it would not get damaged.
If the moisture level in the area is very high, then try to find underlayment with vapor barrier. This added feature will prevent your hardwood floor from getting water damage. So, it is usually good to be install in kitchen or bathroom floor.
However, you still need to install underlayment for solid hardwood floor in the other area around your house. Especially since, water can seep into the flooring through the smallest gap that you cannot even see. When the bottom of the hardwood flooring is soaked from beneath then it can damage or even break the board
2. Fixing any imperfection
When you want to install solid hardwood floor, then you need to make sure the subfloor is in perfect condition. It should be smooth and level so the hardwood floor you install on top will also be even.
That is why, underlayment for solid hardwood floor is needed to help fixing any imperfection on the subfloor. It will make the surface even and smooth. Of course, the imperfection that can be fix with this method is only small cracks or dips. But it is still faster and cheaper than redoing the subfloor from the beginning.
3. Help to reduce noise
Any area that is very busy whether it is because of pets or kids, there will be a lot of noise produced. Sometimes it is very disturbing especially when you are easily bothered even with the smallest noise.
Adding underlayment for solid hardwood floor can help to reduce those noise so it would not disturb you. It can help to absorb the voice in the air so it would not bouche around too much.
4. Added comfort
Hardwood floor can be affected by temperature change. That is why, most people will lay a rug to make it more comfortable. But you cannot put carpet on every surface, that is why, it is better to use underlayment for solid hardwood floor.
Underlayment can help to add more cushion so your feet will be comfortable when walking. It also helps to insulate the hardwood flooring so the temperature change would not affect it too much.
5. Stabilizing engineered hardwood flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring also called as floating floor because it is not attached to the subfloor. That is why, you will need to use underlayment for solid hardwood floor when installing this flooring.
The reason is because engineered hardwood flooring can contract and expand from heat and moisture in the air. They can also pool in between the subfloor and the hardwood flooring which can damage them. But underlayment for solid hardwood floor will help stabilizing the flooring and prevent the damage.
Best Type of Underlayment That You Can Use
After you decide to use the underlayment, now it is time to choose which type to use. Each type will be suitable for certain condition, so you need to consider carefully before installing them.
1. Felt
It is the most popular underlayment for solid hardwood floor that used by many people. The reason is because this underlayment is able to absorb the moisture and prevent it to coming up.
The black felt type really similar to roofing underlayment but it does not use any tar or asphalt. It is odorless so it will be safe to install it on closed area. This type of underlayment will be able to protect the hardwood flooring but it cannot absorb noise that well.
2. Cork
This type underlayment for solid hardwood floor of is suitable for those who want to have a green and renewable material. They are good to absorb noise so it is usually installed in music studio.
It can help to fix small imperfection in the subflooring, and can insulate the area from heat and cold. It is not waterproof but still water resistant so it is enough for most room. But if you want to, there’s type with moisture barrier addon that you can find. Another great feature is that this material has antifungal and antimicrobial properties so it is good for those with allergies.
3. Rubber
It is the best underlayment for solid hardwood floor that you can find. The reason is because, it can absorb noise, provide barrier from moisture and most importantly easy installation.
However, it is not that popular among user because it is very expensive to get. But if you have the budget or if you want to DIY the installation then it is the type that you should get.
As you can see, there are a lot of underlayment for solid hardwood floor types that you can choose from. You need to choose them based on your need since some have different feature. You also need to consider your budget since some is more expensive. If you need a reference, don’t hesitate to consult with us. We are the most experienced companies in Indonesia. For your information, PT Jati Luhur Agung have different types of wood flooring materials with different market value that will fit into your market. So what are you waiting for, contact PT Jati Luhur Agung immediately and ask about your needs.
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