Extruded polystyrene flooring underlay. Polystyrene underlay for parquet, linoleum, laminate. What are the benefits of underlayment under laminate

A high-quality laminate underlay must meet several requirements, including moisture resistance, vapor permeability, as well as good heat and sound insulation. Besides, main goal underlays are considered to protect the floor covering from wear and tear soon. So, a polystyrene substrate (polystyrene) has all the listed properties, supplemented by several more unconditional advantages.

General properties and characteristics of substrates

The polystyrene substrate is a kind of polystyrene known to everyone, manufactured in the form of tile products with a finely porous, one might even say microporous structure. Such plates are known for their smooth surface.

The technology for the production of polystyrene is characterized by foaming (expanding) of the granules of the extruder substance, as well as the use of volatile petroleum products and water vapor, due to which polystyrene is obtained, known for its "lightness" and cellularity.

The polystyrene substrate for a laminate or any other type of board, as well as for linoleum, is divided into two groups:

A material consisting of many microscopic moisture-resistant granules, literally baked under the action of high temperature values.

The cellular structure of each granule (the proportion of air in each is 98%) ensures low thermal conductivity of the substrate, which indicates the possibility of its use in the construction of a floor heating system.

Structurally foiled polystyrene consists of two layers:

1. Foil made of aluminum, designed to reflect heat rays;
2. Insulation.

Laying a polystyrene substrate with a foil layer involves laying the foil down. Fastening is carried out with adhesive tape.

Specifications

• dynamic strength - 30 (MN / m 3);
• base density - 21.5-35 kg / m 3;
• thermal conductivity - 0.036 W / (m∙K);
• vapor permeability - 0.001 Mg / (m∙h∙Pa);
• noise absorption - at the level of 23 dB;
• flexural strength ≥ 0.25 MPa;
• compressive strength at 10% linear deformation ≥ 0.16 MPa;
• maximum use temperature - +70 ° С.

The main advantage is excellent moisture resistance, due to which the polystyrene substrate (the price is approximately equal to 260 rubles per m 2 with a width of 1 m, a length of 5 m and a thickness of 2.5 cm) is quite durable.

It will retain its original characteristics for a long time and save top coat from wear and tear (linoleum, parquet, laminate, etc., including ceramic tiles).

It is unusual for the substrate to accumulate condensate during temperature changes, as a result of which the risk of mold or the growth of other microorganisms is reduced to zero.

The substrate is strong enough, especially when compared with the classic polyethylene foam - its service life is much higher. High rates of heat and sound insulation - another plus of foil polystyrene - these properties will save housing not only from extraneous noise, but also from excessive heat loss.

Although, in comparison with the polyethylene foam substrate, foil is stronger, however, this is not enough to leave it under the coating for a long time.

It wears out quickly, losing its porosity with prolonged contact with massive objects. Another disadvantage of the substrate is its toxicity in case of fire, which does not allow the material to be classified as environmentally friendly.

It is produced by extrusion, which allows you to get a harder and denser material. The manufacturing process consists in mixing polystyrene granules with a blowing agent in special machine called an extruder.

The entire production technology is carried out at high temperatures and under high pressure. Today on the market you can find a rolled and tiled substrate version. Such polystyrene outwardly resembles polystyrene, while internally polystyrene is more durable and has a lower degree of water absorption.

Specifications

• density - 28.0-45.0 kg / m 3;
• modulus of elasticity - 12 MPa;
• thermal conductivity - 0.027-0.030 W / (m∙K);
• ultimate strength in bending - 0.4-0.7 MPa;
• compressive strength at 10% linear deformation 0.20-0.50;
• water absorption in 24 hours - 0.1-0.2% by volume;
• vapor permeability - 0.015-0.019 Mg / (m ∙ h ∙ Pa);
• the maximum operating temperature is +75°C.

Of course, extruded polystyrene has a number of advantages over foil. This is a greater degree of heat and noise insulation due to a less porous and more dense structure.

Since the material has a higher density, it is, accordingly, less susceptible to deformation, which means that even with prolonged exposure to static pressure, it does not tend to sag under weight, while maintaining its original elasticity.

Possessing a low coefficient of water absorption, the extruded polystyrene substrate, as well as the foil one, does not contribute to the formation of condensate. A sharp change in the temperature background is also not terrible for her, that is, laying a polystyrene substrate of this type is also possible in unheated rooms.

An extruded polystyrene substrate for a laminate, the price of which is slightly higher than foil (about 300 rubles per m 2 for a mat 1.2 m long, 0.6 m wide and 12 cm thick) cannot boast of good shock-absorbing qualities, which is the first drawback . Accordingly, more high price material is the second drawback.

A foil or extruded polystyrene backing is suitable for laying on relatively flat surfaces. With a fairly similar pricing policy, both of them tend to protect the flooring from moisture and condensation.

They are able to heat and sound insulate the room and make movement on the base more comfortable and springy. Which type to prefer is up to you.

Polystyrene foil backing, video

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 that 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 on top of it there will be a laminate, which, as you know, is 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, it is a good floor insulation 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 the 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 thermal insulation properties, 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 Isolon NPE, Penofol, Poliizol, etc. The service life under normal conditions is more than 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. around 60°C. Therefore, the foil on the foam ... a good 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.

In my work, when laying laminate, I come across various types of materials. As insulation, a sheet substrate made of extruded polystyrene foam is regularly found, which will be discussed in this article.

Polystyrene was invented and patented in France in 1930. Extruded polystyrene foam was first created in the USA in 1941, the product belongs to the petrochemical industry.

Polystyrene is formed by the polymerization of styrene. A viscous mass is passed through the reactor-mixers with benzene with a gradual increase in temperature in stages. Unreacted styrene is removed by vacuum. At the output we get a pure product, stably inert. That is, in a normal, non-aggressive environment, it is safe.

The density of polystyrene is just over 1000 kg/m3. Get it in the form of granules of a cylindrical shape. Polystyrene is used for further processing: plastic disposable tableware with the sign (PS), sandwich panels, decorative baguette, substrate and much more.

Expanded polystyrene - a brief description and composition

Expanded polystyrene is produced by the gasification method. A multiple increase in volume occurs due to the filling of granules carbon dioxide or natural. The combustibility of expanded polystyrene depends on this.

We receive the material different density from 40-150 kg/m3. The strength of the composition and vapor and air permeability depend on the specific gravity. I draw your attention to the fact that this is not yet a finished substrate. In further processing, the density of the material will be reduced.

Extruded polystyrene foam - characteristics, composition

Actually, we got to the material from which the insulation is made. Extrusion molding machine great pressure And high temperatures polystyrene is injected through a narrow nozzle using a blowing agent. There is a gasification of the mass. At the output we get, depending on the type of machine, the finished product. In our case, this is a substrate for a foamed polystyrene laminate.

The density of extruded polystyrene foam is low - about 30-40 kg / m3. With a given specific gravity, the material has a relative hardness, brittleness, high thermal insulation.

Polystyrene sheet for flooring

The substrate can be supplied in the form of rolls and, more compactly, in sheets.

Extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) laminate underlay comes in two types:

• sheet
• rolled

The sheet substrate, in turn, can be divided into a variety:

• individual plates
• harmonic

Between them, the main difference is only in the method of installation. The name of the substrate - accordion speaks for itself.

It is necessary to lay carefully, the connection of the plates is gentle. In the event of a rupture along the seam, the panels must be fastened with adhesive tape. The requirement to fasten the material is due to the lightness of the bedding and its mobility from gusts of air. The accordion substrate in terms of installation speed surpasses the usual sheet counterpart.

The material is supplied in cellophane packages. The size of the plates in width is 500-600 mm, and in length 1000-1200 mm. The color of the lining directly depends on the dye: blue, pink, green, gray - for every taste.

The thickness of the substrate is varied: 2, 3, 5 mm.

Sheet substrate for laminate "Solid" 2 mm

For example, a sheet substrate for a laminate under a warm floor will be taken. About the best insulation for underfloor heating.

The substrate sheet "Solid" has a thickness of 2 mm and a density of about 40 kg/m3. The sheets are perforated to distribute the flows of incoming warm air from the heated floor.

One well-known large retailer, Leroy-Merlin, has different data on the leveling ability of the lining. The description says one thing, the specifications say another. It should be noted that any 2 mm thick insulation has little ability to remove the unevenness of the base. So think about what to believe - you can break your head from research.

The second contradiction from one trading company is the impossibility of using most brands of laminate under water-heated systems. The annotation of the "Solid" substrate indicates that it is suitable for warm water floors.

It may be necessary for manufacturers of laminate flooring to pass the appropriate certification, worth the money and they are in no hurry to invest them. Or maybe they are afraid of the release of condensate vapors that can spoil the flooring. In any case, it is advantageous for the manufacturer to be less able to provide a warranty, which they do.

Installation of laminate flooring without the use of 200 micron or 0.2 mm film is not covered by the floor warranty..

The electric floor is hidden under cement screed. Therefore, its use will not harm either the laminate or the insulation, as long as the recommended temperature is maintained, which is 28 degrees Celsius for most laminate floors.

However, Styrofoam is a poor heat conductor and not sure if perforation in positive side significantly affect the energy savings in your home. Moreover, to maintain the guarantee, there is a need to lay a vapor barrier film.

In this case, under the laminate it is possible to use any substrate, without the use of ventilation holes.

Infrared warm floors, currently the most popular, are laid directly on the substrate. Then, the holes, on the contrary, theoretically will serve as the release of thermal energy into the floor screed. Yes, and the thickness of this “Solid” lining, which is 2 mm, is too thin and the clamps will need to be recessed into the concrete base.

Price sheet substrate"Solid" with perforation for underfloor heating is from 60 rubles / m2. Sold in packs of 8.4 m2.

Summary of the substrate "Solid" 2mm with perforation for underfloor heating

It is worth paying attention to the substrate when using warm electric or water floors. However, the low leveling ability and the need to use a vapor barrier film make it difficult to comply with warranty service.

Sheet substrate for laminate "Solid" 3 mm

With a sheet substrate 3 mm thick, it is more comfortable to work. The main point is the greater leveling ability. If the base is uneven under the weight of the laminate and furniture, it is pressed through with time on bumps. In this way, alignment occurs. Contribute to shrinkage ribbing of the surface, regularly found on the reverse side of different kind substrates 3 mm thick.

For example, let's take a Solid 3 mm substrate in the well-known Petrovich store. Packing area of ​​10.5 m2. The length is 10 meters, the width is 1050 mm. Unfolds like an accordion.

The particular thing that interests me about extruded insulation is the density of the material. The characteristics indicate that the density is 45 kg / m3. This is the average.

In one runet summary table, the minimum value for extruded polystyrene is 33 kg / m3, in our case 45 kg / m3, in well-known specialized markets they sell a substrate without specifying the manufacturer with a density of 55 kg / m3, which suggests some thoughts about the likely substitution of characteristics. Since hardly anyone bothers to measure the density of the substrate, and it is quite difficult to do this. The weight of the package is not indicated everywhere, and the presence of ribbing reduces the possibility of measurement to zero.

The accordion substrate does not have ribbing, therefore, using the indicated characteristics, in the Petrovich store, beloved by many builders, we can easily recalculate the density of the material.

Compound: extruded polystyrene foam (XPS).

Dimensions: thickness 3 mm, width 1.05 m, length 10 m.

Density: 45 kg/m³

Color: Orange.

Manufacturer: Russia.

Gross weight: 1.39 kg.

10*1.05=10.5 m2 - area of ​​the substrate

10.5 * 0.003 (3mm thickness converted to meters) \u003d 0.0315 m3 - volume received

45 * 0.0315 \u003d 1.4175 kg - the package must weigh net

1.39 / 0.0315 = 44.12 - the actual density of the lining

As you can see, the difference is just over two percent. This difference is of no importance.

However, EPS insulation vendors argue in favor of this underlay, compared to . Higher material density and longer service life is a good reason.

The foamed substrate, according to various sources, has a density of 20-50 kg/m3. Which in the maximum values ​​is comparable to extrusion. If we focus on the density of comparable materials, then they are almost the same, extruded polystyrene has a slight advantage.

Summary of the substrate "Solid" - accordion 3 mm

The underlay is quite fast in laying compared to conventional sheet insulation, but inferior to foam roll material. I consider this moment important for those who want to lay the laminate on their own for the first time. It is always difficult to do something for the first time and devote too much time to any simple aspect. Roughly speaking, you can lose your patience in flooring without starting to do anything.

The price of "Solid" 3 mm is about 55 rubles per m2. Which is much more expensive than foam underlay, but inferior to more expensive ones: Tuplex, Profitex, cork... For calculation, it should be borne in mind that the sheet substrate for masters is usually not included in the cost of laying flooring, so the total price rises to 75 rubles per square meter, which is comparable to expensive insulation.

Sheet substrate for laminate "Aberhof" (Aberhof) 5 mm

For example, I present a sheet substrate for Aberhof 5 mm laminate. It is already difficult to write anything at all about the material about which almost everything has been said above.

The substrate is made of expanded polystyrene by extrusion. The official website contains modest information about the characteristics. The package consists of 10 sheets with an area of ​​5.25 m2, 1050 mm by 500 mm in size and 5 mm thick.

The 5 mm underlay has higher soundproofing and heat-insulating properties compared to the 3 mm underlay, by an average of 20%.

The density of the plate is 35 kg/m3.

The 5mm liner has high leveling performance up to 3.5mm.

For extruded polystyrene foam specific gravity Aberhof lining is quite low. It is depressing that there is no information on the site about passing fire certification, compliance with sanitary and hygiene requirements, certificate of conformity PCT.

Summary of Aberhof 5 mm substrate

Please note that laminate manufacturers do not provide a guarantee for floor coverings with a used substrate of more than 3 mm thickness.

I see the use of Aberhof 5 mm sheet with a limited budget for leveling the floor level between rooms. Keep in mind that the lining will shrink over time.

The material under test is indispensable when laying laminate or parquet boards in rooms with an uneven base. When there is no time and opportunity to equalize.

Rolled substrate from extruded polystyrene "Solid"

This product is supplied in rolls with an area of ​​16.5 m2. The length of the canvas is 15 meters, the width is 1.1 meters, the thickness is 2 mm.

A density of 50 kg/m3 is considered high.

Combustibility class of the material G4 - highly combustible.

The numbers are not documented on the website. No certificates found.

Summary of the roll substrate "Solid" 2 mm

It is extremely difficult to work with a roll substrate. Easily breaks, rolls back into a roll. You have to press it to the concrete base with improvised means.

Really use 15 square meters. Closer to the base, the lining, when viewed in profile, takes on a spherical shape. To be able to lay it is necessary to cut into pieces. It all looks extremely unprofessional.

The price of a rolled substrate made of extruded polystyrene 2 mm is about 35-40 rubles / m2.

I express my deep conviction. It is better not to buy this insulation.

Pros and cons of extruded polystyrene foam backing sheet

We consider sheet insulation for comparison, since it is more widespread than roll insulation.

Advantages of sheet extruded substrate

• Higher density and probable life of the material compared to foam bedding.
• Relatively low price from 35 rub/m2.
• Insulation is not subject to rotting and mold formation.
• Compact storage.

Cons of sheet extruded substrate

• High flammability of the material.
• More considerable time of a flooring in comparison with roll "Pleneks".
• The curved shape of the sheets is regularly encountered.
• Fragility of the material.
• The lining is "not indifferent" to a poorly prepared base. Small stones tear the "body" of extrusion.
• To comply with the warranty, the requirement of laminate manufacturers to lay a vapor barrier foam.

23 ratings, average: 3,35 out of 5, total ratings: 23)

The popularity of laminate as finishing material for floors and wide use of it indoors for various purposes– from bedrooms and children's rooms, where the load on the floors is minimal, to public

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Buildings with very high traffic, makes special demands on the material necessary for laying - the substrate under the coating.

The cheapest and most common version of the substrate - an insulating coating made of polyethylene foam - has a number of disadvantages. One of which is deformation under load and loss of its original shape. If you have to lay laminate in rooms with increased load, then pay attention to such material as a substrate made of extruded polystyrene foam.

What is extruded polystyrene foam

extruded, or extruded polystyrene foam- a material related to foam. Both are made from polystyrene. The difference is in the method of foaming polystyrene: extruded polystyrene foam is obtained by adding a blowing agent to polystyrene granules under conditions high pressure and temperature. Ready composition extruded from the extruder.

Expanded polystyrene has a dense uniform closed porous structure. Having low thermal conductivity, expanded polystyrene is a good heat insulator, and the dense structure provides sufficient strength.

Styrofoam underlay

For laying laminate flooring, an extruded polystyrene substrate is produced in mats with dimensions of 600x1200 or 600x1250 mm. The material has a suitable instruction for laying laminated flooring, thickness - 3 mm. In addition to sheet, a roll substrate is also produced. The thickness of rolled insulation is 2 and 5 mm.

Extruded laminate underlay is a great choice. Having a number of positive qualities:

• durability;
• non-deformability;
• good thermal insulation properties;
• the ability to absorb noise;
• vapor barrier properties;

• this material belongs to quite budget options.

Extruded polystyrene foam underlayment

If a polystyrene laminate underlay is chosen, then its laying does not differ from other options insulating materials for laminate. Since the material low ability to moisture absorption - 0.08%, then laying additional vapor barrier on concrete screed not required.

Roll insulation is rolled out and the seams are glued with adhesive tape. When laying the board material, in order to prevent the joints of the substrate sheets and the joints of the laminate boards from matching, it is necessary to turn the direction of the sheets at an angle of 45° to the parquet lamellae. On one side of the sheet there are longitudinal grooves - you need to lay this side down. In the air channels formed by the grooves, air will circulate, ensuring the removal of the resulting condensate.

Laying is carried out, starting from the corner, first with whole sheets. The seams between the panels of expanded polystyrene are also glued with adhesive tape to avoid shifting the insulation. When the laying of whole sheets is completed, you need to put trimmings. Try to measure accurately so that there are no gaps between the sheets. On the video you can see in more detail how to lay the extruded polystyrene foam substrate under the laminate in the form of sheets.

Which manufacturer to choose?

The commercially available polystyrene foam underlayment is represented by several manufacturers, among which I would like to highlight:

• VTM from IsoPolin (Poland) according to reviews, is considered one of the best options.
• "Izoshum" (Russia) is considered the best in terms of price and quality.
• Arbiton (Poland) is just a good option;

When choosing materials for construction, everyone has their own preferences, and you will have to choose, focusing not only on reviews, but also on factors such as the availability of material in the building supplies stores in your area.