Floor underlays

Laminate flooring underlay – what is it and why is it worth using?

Laminate flooring underlay is a layer installed between the subfloor and the panels, which is responsible for cushioning and insulation. A well-matched laminate flooring underlay increases walking comfort and reduces sound transmission.

In practice, laminate flooring underlays perform several functions, including:

• levelling minor subfloor irregularities,
• improving the acoustic insulation of the room,
• protecting panels from moisture.

Additionally, a proper panel underlay supports the durability of panel locks and prevents their damage during intensive use.

PE foam underlay – properties, thickness, and acoustic insulation

Foam underlay for panels is a popular solution used in many projects. A lightweight foam mat for panels provides good acoustic insulation and easy installation. Standard thickness ranges from 2 mm to 5 mm, making it easy to choose the right product for the type of subfloor.

The foam underlay for panels effectively dampens footsteps and improves comfort in multi-level apartments.

Underlay with vapour barrier film – protection against moisture from the subfloor

Moisture from concrete is one of the main causes of damage to laminate flooring. An underlay for panels, with a built-in vapour barrier film, limits the penetration of water vapour into the floor structure. This is particularly important for new cement screeds.

Products like PRO THERMO VAPOR STOP (1×15 m roll, 2 mm thick) combine thermal and vapour barrier functions in one layer. They are particularly suitable for:

• ground floors above ground and basements,
• concrete screeds with elevated residual moisture,
• kitchens and hallways exposed to changing conditions.

It is worth remembering that laminate flooring underlays with a vapour barrier film eliminate the need for a separate PE film underneath, thus saving installation time.

How to properly install underlay for panels – joining and fastening

Proper installation of a mat under laminate flooring begins with subfloor preparation. The surface should be dry, clean, and level. Depending on the model, rolls can be laid parallel or perpendicular to the direction of the panels.

Strips are joined using self-adhesive tape available in our offer. Edges should be laid butt-to-butt without overlapping material. This method prevents irregularities. It is worth leaving a small allowance at the walls (about 2 to 3 cm), which will be covered by skirting boards.

At doors and transitions between rooms, threshold profiles are used to secure the edge of the floor and aesthetically mask the transition between different surfaces.

Choosing the right underlay for the type of panels and floor surface

The right underlay for laminate flooring depends on the type of panels and the conditions of the interior. Solutions designed for underfloor heating differ in properties from products used on classic surfaces.

Panel underlays can be matched according to:

• material type (foam or cork),
• acoustic insulation level,
• load resistance.

The arrangement can be complemented by skirting boards (including PVC skirting boards), which aesthetically finish the space at the walls. Threshold profiles are suitable for joints of different surfaces.

Trust the experts and choose quality from CEZAR!

For 68 years, we have been synonymous with quality in interior finishing.

We offer laminate flooring underlays tested by professionals and used in thousands of properties across Poland. In our assortment, you will find panel underlays in various versions – from the economic BASIC (1×10 m or 1×25 m roll, 2 mm thick) through cork EXPERT, to advanced PRO THERMO models with a vapour barrier.

Check out the full range of laminate flooring underlays in our store and choose the right solution for your project.