Sheet substrate under the laminate extruded polystyrene foam. Extruded polystyrene foam for laminate: what you need to know? What is the best underlay for laminate flooring?

Of particular importance among additional material at finishing laying any floor covering special substrate. Its immediate tasks are to provide sound absorption and heat of the floor, hide its small irregularities, etc. The market offers a huge range of substrates made from a variety of materials. But a special niche was occupied by polystyrene models.

Polystyrene - in simple terms polystyrene or one of its types. It is produced in the form of plates of sheets with small-fine pores, the product has a pleasant to the touch smooth surface or corrugated. The preparation of polystyrene is carried out by the process of foaming a certain substance, and when using steam of water and volatile oil products, an almost weightless material with a cellular structure is formed. In everyday life, it is called "sheet substrate"

Benefits of polystyrene backing

However, its airiness is ostentatious, since strength, hydro and thermal insulation are ideal. Despite the fact that the composition of the material contains volatile petroleum products, it is absolutely safe for human health.

In addition, such a substrate will stand guard over your flooring and protect it from moisture, fungus or mold. It will endure any load and at the same time will not lose its qualitative properties, as, in principle, itself flooring. The cellular structure and the foil layer almost 100% guarantee the low thermal conductivity of the material.

Its main advantages are:

• very high degree of protection against the formation of fungus, mold;

• the highest level of thermal insulation;

• good degree of protection against noise;

• strength and reliability;

• moisture protection.

However, these products also have some disadvantages. This is a high cost, low depreciation properties and the absence of microventilation.

Types of polystyrene foam substrates

There are numerous types and sizes of this material on the market today. It is sold in sections, which are connected using a foil web. The product is available in several types. There is foamed polyethylene, and there is foamed polystyrene. However, these types should not be confused.

The first belongs to the budget and cheapest segment, respectively, the quality does not differ. Yes, he is not afraid of moisture, mold or fungus, but not very good in sound insulation and strength, i.e. short-lived.

The second option has a solid structure and lasts a long time. It is also not afraid of moisture, fits perfectly, filling small irregularities, has acceptable sound-absorbing and heat-insulating qualities.

In addition to these two types, there is also a foil composite. This underlay will be perfect and the best choice under the floor covering, especially under the "warm floor" system. The foil layer applied to the foamed polystyrene reflects heat rays and increases the efficiency of the "warm floor" system at times. This significantly reduces the cost of electricity and heating.

Another type is an extruded composite. His hallmark from the previous option is the production technology. It is also distinguished by such advantages as a high degree of sound insulation, ease of installation, excellent resistance to moisture. The material is not afraid of chemical or biological effects, ideally resistant to stress. Despite its synthetic nature, it is absolutely safe for human health.

The ideal thickness of this product is 3 mm, but you can also find substrates with a thickness of 2 mm and 5 mm. The substrate for the laminate is usually chosen with a thickness of 3 mm, and when installing a parquet board, 5 mm is used.

Features of laying the substrate of extruded polystyrene

Video "Laying polystyrene sheet substrate"

Laying this substrate is quite simple, but requires additional preparation. It is necessary to level the subfloor to the maximum. For increase soundproof properties floors, it is necessary to lay a special film with thermoacoustic properties. And then you should lay the substrate of polystyrene. At the joints, it is fixed with masking tape.

Overview of the best of the most popular

In order to recommend the best substrates to you, we took into account the opinion of representatives of manufacturers of the most popular laminate brands, analyzed the reviews of masters and users on specialized Internet resources and construction forums, specifications materials.

Selection criteria

The selection was made by us on the basis of the parameters below, which we offer you to be guided by when choosing.

Noise absorption

By this is meant the absorption of "shock" (reflected and transmitted) noise. The reflected noise you hear when you walk on the floor, the passing one is the one that is heard by your neighbors below. Let's make it clear right away: NO backing will save YOU from the noise of your neighbors under you, it is YOU who save them from the roar of your heels.

Relation to moisture

Substrates from different groups react differently to moisture. Please note that an indispensable condition for the guarantee for laminate from manufacturers is the presence of a waterproofing film with a thickness of 200 microns.

thermal insulation

This indicator is important if the floors are located above basements, unheated garages, walkways.

Density, thickness

For laminate, the ideal is the most solid base. In this case, the wear of the locks will be minimal. The softer and thicker the substrate, the faster the coating will become unusable. If the thickness is more than the optimal (!) 3 mm, then there is a high probability of the appearance of cracks due to the wear of the locks.

Reaction to uneven ground floor

The denser the material (and highest density cork), the worse its leveling abilities and the more carefully the base should be leveled. The curvature of a large radius you will not align with anything!

Lifetime

Under an expensive laminate with a lifespan of 15 years or more, it is not economically feasible to lay a cheap polyethylene substrate, which will wear out in a couple of years.

Suitable for use with underfloor heating

This characteristic is relevant for those who plan to lay laminate on underfloor heating.

Ease of installation

Some types of roll substrates (from cork, in particular) “strive” to curl up when laying. In this case it is better to take sheet material.

The best manufacturers (brands) of substrates

Notable Manufacturers laminate for their products, it is strongly recommended to use branded substrates. Otherwise, they reserve the right to refuse to consider the claim, if any. However, all of them favor cork substrates from Portugal and VTM brand extruded polystyrene. Excellent reviews o Parkolag and Isoplin both installers and buyers. Well proved in operation of a substrate from NPE from Quick step. But the domestic analogue will provide you with "bubbles" and "waves" after laying. We also do not recommend extruded polystyrene of Russian and Chinese brands: in the product description, their characteristics are overestimated.

OUR RANKING OF THE BEST SUBSTRATES

The best natural substrates

Let us immediately clarify that the natural origin of the substrate in this case does not give any advantages in terms of ecology, since a laminate will be placed on top of it, which, as you know, is an artificial material.

Cork underlayment Premium Cork (Cork)
Rating 9 out of 10

Photo: vopros-remont.ru

Average price in Russia: 90 rub./m2, thickness 2 mm (145 rub./m2 - 3 mm thick)

Advantages: One of the best substrates Made in Portugal, Spain. Very high density means the resistance of both itself and the laminate locks to deformations under loads. Due to the high damping properties, the floor will not “play” over time. Due to its very low thermal conductivity, good insulation floors above unheated rooms. Since it dampens noise well, it will become great solution for children's, game rooms. Can be used with high-end laminate without requiring replacement, 25 years. Unlike the Chinese counterpart, it does not crumble, is good in installation and operation, and does not harm the laminate.

Flaws: High price. Noisy on poorly leveled ground. It is best to apply on wooden floor, plywood, chipboard. Absorbs moisture, therefore requires concrete waterproofing and is not recommended for wet rooms and kitchens.

Typical Reviews
“It is necessary to carefully remove the base under the cork! I encountered this…”
“... it's hard to lay. When the roll ends, the cork tends to pull back strongly, and there are fears that it, crumpled, will fall under the laminate.

Parkolag (Parkolag)
Rating 9 out of 10

Photo: strmnt.ru

Advantages: High noise absorption, wear resistance, very high moisture insulation make this ventilated underlay one of the best. Cork powder, which retains its elasticity, contributes to long service laminate, and bitumen prevents the penetration of moisture from concrete screed. The presence of air exchange prevents the formation of condensate, fungus, mold. Maintains linear dimensions under very significant pressure and changes in temperature and humidity conditions. A reliable underlay that will be an excellent solution for expensive laminate brands and will serve without causing problems, long years.

Flaws: Cannot be used under underfloor heating.

Reviews:
“Compared to technical cork, as a mixed version, it is more versatile, moreover, more wear-resistant. Wins in terms of barrier on the way excess moisture».
“As a substrate, I always liked Pargolag, about which I heard a lot of tales, such as bitumen stinks not like a child, etc. All this is nonsense.”
“I bought a parking lot for laminate flooring. Great! And there is no smell, and teeeee…”

Isoplat (Isoplaat startfloor barlinek)
Rating 9 out of 10

Photo: bug.ua

Advantages: An ideal substrate for underfloor heating due to its absolute safety when heated. Due to the porous structure, it has good noise and sound-absorbing, acoustic and heat-insulating properties, and heat resistance. The special structure of the bottom layer allows free air circulation, providing ventilation properties. In addition, thanks to antiseptic impregnation, it is protected from fungus and mold. In terms of elasticity, thermal conductivity, resistance to compression, sound absorption, durability and naturalness, it is similar to cork. As for thermal insulation, due to the thickness of Isoplat, it is 3 times higher and comparable to soft insulation.
Flaws: Plates of smaller thickness are not produced.
Reviews:
“I have a 5 mm isoplaat under 33 laminate. Elastic, warm to the touch, dampens noise well. With two small children, the neighbors downstairs simply don’t hear us (their opinion).”

Best Extruded Styrofoam Underlays

VTM, IsoPolin (Isopolin)
Rating 10 out of 10

Photo: skill-spb.ru

Average price in Russia: 55 rub./m2 (thickness 3 mm)

Advantages: A stable base for laminate flooring, making even diagonal laying of laminate comfortable. Due to the closed moisture-proof pores, it is an ideal waterproofing. Optimally selected density is expressed in a sufficiently high resistance to external pressure and at the same time the absence of strong rigidity. The latter quality compensates for floor irregularities up to 3 mm and enhances sound insulation: the impact sound absorption index approaches cork. Technical characteristics are similar to Isoplat plates. Mechanical pressure does not have a destructive effect on the structure, so VTM and IsoPolin substrates do not lose their high heat and sound insulating properties over time. Service life more than 10 years.

Flaws: Not suitable for areas with high traffic and load (ballrooms, fitness clubs, etc.). Not suitable for underfloor heating.

Reviews:
“In terms of laying properties and resistance to sagging, XPS underlay and Isoplat are almost identical.”
“As a builder, I can say that it is pleasant and easy to work with him, many customers require just such a substrate.”
“In the Olympic Village… there is a huge demand for this substrate among understanding people.”

The best polyethylene substrates

Tuplex (Tuplex)
Rating 9 out of 10

Photo: ekopol.kiev.ua

Advantages: Tuplex underlay adapts to the shape of the base, smoothing out small imperfections. Superbly absorbs impact noise, drowning out the sound of heels. This quality allows us to recommend Tuplex for both residential and office use. Thanks to its low compression (14 times less than polyethylene foam), it retains its shape well and prevents the laminate from sagging. The unique structure of the material allows you to remove moisture naturally, but this advantage is reduced to zero in the presence of waterproofing film. Suitable for underfloor heating.

Flaws: The heating efficiency from underfloor heating is lower compared to traditional heat-conducting substrates due to the dispersion of part of the air.

Reviews:
“The best… I've worked with is Tuplex. Very easy to fit."
“I heard complaints about it. Key takeaway: Styrofoam balls deform over time… Maybe that’s not the case, but it’s worth thinking about.”
“... I tried for compression - it is not restored. Although the annotation says otherwise.

Isolon PPE
Rating 8 out of 10

Photo: www.web4market.biz

Advantages: Good heat and sound absorbing parameters of "cross-linked" closed-cell polyethylene, its ecological cleanliness, elasticity and elasticity, increased moisture resistance and hydrophobicity, inertness to "chemistry", bacteria and relative cheapness make the Izolon PPE substrate (not to be confused with Izolon NPE!) Preferred for use in residential and public spaces. These qualities can be retained by Isolon PPE long time under any operating conditions. Does not deform under load, does not burn and does not emit toxic substances. Over time, it does not collapse, does not lose stability and strength, unlike gas-filled polyethylenes Izolon NPE, Penofol, Polyizol, etc. Service life in normal conditions over 25 years. Optimal solution for underfloor heating.

Flaws: Despite the good thermal insulation performance, you should not count on the thermal insulation of the floor with a material thickness of 2-4 mm.

Reviews:
“If you take Izolon, then the PPE is white with very dense small bubbles, but not our NPE!”
“Compared to cork, Izolon has much worse compression and recovery.”

Foil Izolon PPE
Rating 6 out of 10

Photo: www.dom-laminata.ru

Advantages: In addition to the advantages of Izolon PPE, the foil layer, which is a reflective thermal insulation, enhances the heat, vapor barrier properties, reduces heat loss by 97%. Important: the effectiveness of foil thermal insulation is higher, the higher the temperature difference between the subfloor and the room. For the first floor with a concrete floor, foil Izolon PPE is useful, for an apartment on the fourth floor there will be no gain in temperature. But as a heater, it goes well with an infrared warm floor.

Reviews:
“In order for the foil to give a tangible effect in heat reflection, the temperature should be. in the region of 60° C. Therefore, the foil on the foam ... marketing ploy…».
"...living in a plastic bag requires constant ventilation."

What is the best underlay to buy?

To the same group of materials, even professionals often have a diametrically opposed attitude, and most often poorly reasoned. Our rating of the best substrates does not give an unequivocal answer to this question - the choice is yours. Study the characteristics of the material and choose the one that best suits the tasks, the degree of evenness of the base and your financial capabilities. At the same time, keep in mind that thicker does not mean better, the thickness of the substrate should not exceed 3-4 mm, unless a larger one is allowed by the laminate manufacturer.

When arranging flooring, not only quality finishing material, but also the whole pie, starting from the base. An important role is played by the substrate, which compensates for the load when walking, reduces the "voicing" of the coating and protects it from moisture. Expanded polystyrene under the laminate is used quite often and this is due to its unique performance properties.

Expanded polystyrene has several varieties, depending on the method of its manufacture.

Table 1. Varieties of expanded polystyrene

Characteristics of extruded polystyrene foam

More often under a laminate the substrates made of this material are used. The peculiarity of its structure lies in evenly spaced closed cells, which ensures the moisture resistance of the material. The production of the substrate takes place using an extrusion molding machine, where polystyrene, together with a blowing agent, is fed through a narrow nozzle under great pressure and high temperatures. The result is a low density material (30-40 kg/m³).

The material does not rot and does not absorb moisture. When wet, water does not penetrate further than the open side combs on the cut. It is distinguished from analogues by its high strength and thermal insulation properties. Substrates from this material are produced in rolls and in the form of sheets, 1000 x 500 x 3 mm in size.

Table 2. Characteristics of expanded polystyrene

Advantages and disadvantages of the material

Of the advantages of polystyrene foam substrates, the following are noted:

1. High strength and durability of the material allow you to create a high-quality floor covering that will maintain integrity and aesthetic appeal for many years.
2. The porous structure guarantees high thermal insulation properties of such a substrate.
3. The embossed surface provides natural air circulation between the substrate and the base, while moisture and condensate do not penetrate further than the substrate.
4. The thickness of the substrate allows you to hide minor irregularities in the base.
5. The material is not afraid of low temperatures, so it can be used in unheated rooms.
6. Laminate is a rather resonant coating, and the substrate with a porous structure in the form of sealed cells filled with air perfectly absorbs noise.
7. The material is light in weight and convenient in size, which facilitates its transportation and installation.
8. The cellular structure and homogeneous composition make this material resistant to ammonia, alcohol, propane, salts and alkalis.
9. Expanded polystyrene does not change its physical properties even under heavy loads.
10. The material is not subject to decay, it is environmentally friendly and safe for humans and the environment.

Among the shortcomings, a small thickness of the substrate is noted, due to which it has a low leveling ability. Therefore, the base must be leveled with special compounds or plates. Otherwise, if the difference exceeds 1 cm, after a while, a creak will appear when walking on the laminate.

Another disadvantage is that the material is not sold in parts. If the room is small, you still have to buy the entire package.

Types of substrates

Expanded polystyrene is used to make several types of materials that can be used as a substrate for a laminate. They differ in thickness and operational characteristics. Expanded polystyrene plates are often equipped with end milled grooves that ensure a snug fit of the elements to each other.

Note! Due to the low water absorption coefficient, the extruded polystyrene foam substrate can be safely used in the premises of the first floor, without focusing on the depth of groundwater.

To ensure thermal insulation of laminate flooring, it is sufficient to use a 3 mm underlay. It is produced in the form of sheets of 20 pieces per pack. Convenient is the substrate, folded into an accordion. Between such sheets, a minimum number of joints is formed due to the fact that the material, when unfolded, fits the entire length of the room.

Polystyrene sheet for flooring

As noted earlier, the EPS substrate can be rolled or in the form of sheets. The second variety is available in the form of separate plates or accordions. They differ only in the way they are laid.

When laying the sheets with an accordion, proceed carefully so as not to damage the connection of the sheets. If this happens, then the gap is sealed with ordinary tape. Also, with the help of adhesive tape, separate sheets are fastened together so that they do not scatter. The advantage of the accordion is that its installation is much faster.

With a sheet length of 1000 - 1200 mm and a width of 500 - 600 mm, the thickness of the product can vary from 2 to 5 mm. Several types of sheet substrates can be distinguished.

"Solid" 2 mm thick

This variety can be used in the underfloor heating system. The density of the "Solid" sheet substrate with a thickness of 2 mm is 40 kg / m³. So that the substrate is not an obstacle to the heat flow coming from the coolant, it has a perforation.

Note! Since the leveling ability of a material with such a thickness is minimal, and the laminate must be laid on a flat base, it is necessary to carefully consider the preparatory stage.

When installing a coolant (pipes with water or an electric cable) in a screed, during the operation of a warm floor, make sure that its temperature does not exceed 28 degrees. When creating a vapor barrier layer, the substrate may not have perforations.

If an infrared warm floor is being installed, when the heating elements are laid directly on the substrate, a material without perforation should be chosen to eliminate heat loss.

The cost of this type of polystyrene foam substrates starts from 60 r / m². The package contains material to cover an area of ​​8.4 m².

Expanded polystyrene substrate "Solid" with a thickness of 2 mm is recommended to be purchased for electric or water heated floors.

"Solid" 3 mm thick

The 3 mm thick substrate is more comfortable to work with and has a better leveling effect. Ribbed surface on back side sheet contributes to the shrinkage of the material under load.

A variety of polystyrene foam substrate in the form of an accordion has a length of 10 meters and is designed for an area of ​​10.5 m². Its average density is 45 kg/m³. There are no ribs on the back. Compared to foam underlays, which are also often used when laying laminate, this option has a greater density and durability.

As previously noted, the material in the form of an accordion fits faster than sheet counterparts. The cost of the material starts from 55 rubles per m² and exceeds the price of a foamed roll analogue.

"Aberhof" (Aberhof) 5 mm

The Aberhof 5mm sheet underlay is sold in packs of 10 sheets for a 5.25 m² flat surface. The size of one sheet is 1050 x 500 x 5 mm. This variety is characterized by higher sound and thermal insulation properties (higher than that of a three-millimeter one by about 2%). The sheet density is 35 kg/m³. The advantage of the material lies in its high leveling capacity (3.5 mm).

When using such a substrate on an uneven floor, it must be taken into account that it shrinks over time. However, this type of underlay is best suited for laying laminate and hardwood flooring on uneven ground.

Advantages and disadvantages

Extruded sheet foam polystyrene backing has the following positive properties:

1. High density and long service life when compared with a foamed counterpart.
2. Relatively low cost, which starts from 20 rubles per 1 m².
3. The material does not rot or mold.
4. Available in a convenient format and packaging, which facilitates the process of transportation and installation.

Of the shortcomings note:

1. combustibility of the material.
2. In a pack, defective curved sheets may come across.
3. Due to the fragility of the sheets, the laying of the sheets must be done carefully.
4. You need a perfectly even and clean base without small pebbles that can violate the integrity of the sheet.
5. The need to use a vapor barrier film.

Table 3 average cost material

Detailed step by step instructions for laying laminate you will find in the article. We talk about the nuances, the choice of the substrate and its types, the laying process and how to cut holes.

Video - How to choose a substrate for a laminate

As a rule, when choosing a laminate as a floor covering, the buyer makes the same mistake, evaluating the laminate for a long time and not at all thinking about the quality of the substrate. Extruded polystyrene foam under the laminate has increased moisture resistance and is able to withstand even heavy loads, as well as resistant to shape changes.

Characteristics of extruded polystyrene foam

Extruded polystyrene foam under the laminate has long been in demand in the market. It consists of closed cells and has a uniform structure. It is obtained by mixing high temperature and under pressure of polystyrene granules with a mixture of light freons and carbon dioxide, or by adding another blowing agent.

Expanded polystyrene acquires high thermal insulation and strength characteristics due to the method used in production, the uniformity of the composition and the cellular structure of the material. Extruded polystyrene foam is resistant not only to water, but also to various chemicals(propane, ammonia, alcohol and dyes based on it, bleach, saline solutions etc.).

Extruded polystyrene foam is not subject to decay, there is practically no water absorption. Water fills only the side open "honeycombs", since the cells of the substance are sealed. Such a substrate is completely safe for humans. The use of such a substrate will allow you to get a warm floor, and will also have a positive effect on the life of the laminate.

Advantages and disadvantages

Compared with other materials, extruded polystyrene foam differs in terms of high quality and reasonable price. The advantages include the high strength of the material and durability, which allows you to preserve the beauty and integrity of the floor for a long time. Styrofoam provides good thermal insulation due to its porous surface. This material, due to its structural features, provides good air circulation and at the same time it does not allow moisture and condensate to pass through. Extruded polystyrene foam is able to even out small irregularities. It can also be used in unheated rooms with low temperatures. It also provides excellent noise isolation, absorbing up to 70% of sound.

The disadvantages of this material include low leveling ability. So, if the height of the unevenness is higher than 1 cm, then the laminate will lose its relief, and this may also contribute to the presence of a creak when walking. Another drawback is the large packaging of the material, as a result of which it is necessary to buy material with the rest, overpaying for extra sheets.

Specifications

The extruded substrate for laminate flooring can be either in the form of a roll or in slabs.

• Available in roll or slab form. (Slabs size: 1000*500*3mm);
• Moisture absorption: 0.08%;
• Operating temperature range: -50 +75 С;
• Density: 35 kg/m cube;
• Soundproofing: 5.5 db, 22 db;
• Thermal conductivity: 0.035 W.

Laying rules

To put extruded polystyrene foam under the laminate , no additional fastening materials or special skills are required.