How To Lay Underlayment For Laminate Flooring On Concrete

Laying underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete is an essential step in the installation process. Underlayment provides a moisture barrier, reduces noise, and improves the overall performance of the flooring. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to lay underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete:

Step 1: Prepare the Concrete Surface

Start by cleaning the concrete surface thoroughly. Remove any dust, dirt, or debris using a broom or vacuum cleaner. Next, check the concrete for any cracks or unevenness. Fill in any cracks with a cement-based patching compound and sand down any high spots.

Step 2: Spread the Vapor Barrier

A vapor barrier helps prevent moisture from rising from the concrete into the flooring. Spread a 6-mil polyethylene vapor barrier over the entire concrete surface, overlapping the edges by about 6 inches. Tape the seams using duct tape or vapor barrier tape.

Step 3: Roll Out the Underlayment

Unroll the underlayment perpendicular to the direction you're going to install the laminate flooring. Cut the underlayment to fit the room, using a utility knife. Ensure that the underlayment is smooth and flat, and overlap the seams by about 2 inches.

Step 4: Secure the Underlayment

To secure the underlayment, you can use either staples or tape. For stapling, use a flooring stapler and 1-inch staples. Space the staples about 6 inches apart around the perimeter of the room and every 12 inches in the field. For taping, use double-sided carpet tape and place it along the seams and around the perimeter.

Step 5: Cut and Install the Laminate Flooring

Once the underlayment is secured, you can start installing the laminate flooring. Use a laminate flooring cutter or a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade to cut the planks to the desired length. Install the planks according to the manufacturer's instructions, starting from one corner of the room and working your way out.

That's it! Laying underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete is a relatively simple but important task. By following these steps, you can ensure a successful flooring installation that will last for years to come.