Underlayment for hardwood floors is a critical aspect—it provides a plethora of important benefits that will make you love your wood floors even more.
When it comes to hardwood flooring, the focus often falls on the beautiful, durable surface that graces our homes. However, what lies beneath that stunning exterior is equally crucial to the longevity and performance of your hardwood floors. That unsung hero is the underlayment – a critical component of any successful hardwood flooring installation.
What is Underlayment?
Underlayment, in the context of hardwood flooring, refers to the layer or material placed between the subfloor and the hardwood planks. It serves several important functions, each contributing to the overall quality and performance of your hardwood floor.
Moisture Barrier
One of the primary roles of underlayment is to act as a moisture barrier. Moisture can wreak havoc on hardwood floors, causing them to warp, buckle, or become damaged over time. The underlayment creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture from seeping up from the subfloor and affecting your hardwood planks.
Noise Reduction
Hardwood floors, while beautiful, can be noisy when walked upon. The underlayment can act as a sound barrier, reducing the amount of noise transmitted throughout your home. This is particularly important in multi-story buildings or areas where noise control is a concern.
Surface Evenness
Another key function of underlayment is to provide a smooth, level surface for the hardwood planks to rest on. It helps to eliminate minor imperfections in the subfloor, ensuring that the finished hardwood floor looks flawless and feels even underfoot.
Thermal Insulation
Underlayment can also enhance the thermal insulation of your hardwood floors. By providing an extra layer of insulation, it helps to maintain a more comfortable and consistent indoor temperature, which can be particularly advantageous in regions with extreme weather conditions.
Cushioning and Comfort
Walking on hardwood floors can be hard on the feet and joints, especially for extended periods. Some underlayment materials offer added cushioning, making your hardwood floor more comfortable to walk on. This can be especially appreciated in areas where you spend a lot of time standing, like the kitchen.
Why Underlayment Matters
Now that we understand what underlayment is and its various functions, let’s delve into why it’s so important for hardwood floors:
Longevity
A proper underlayment can significantly extend the lifespan of your hardwood floor. By protecting against moisture and providing a stable base, it reduces the risk of warping, cupping, or other forms of damage that can occur over time.
Comfort
The cushioning and insulation provided by underlayment can make your hardwood floors more comfortable to walk and stand on. This added comfort can improve the overall quality of life in your home, especially in areas where you spend a lot of time.
Noise Reduction
Hardwood floors can be loud, especially in high-traffic areas. Underlayment helps reduce noise transmission, creating a quieter and more peaceful living environment.
Appearance
Underlayment ensures that your hardwood floors look their best. By creating a smooth, level surface, it prevents unsightly imperfections or irregularities from showing through the hardwood planks.
Energy Efficiency
In some cases, underlayment can contribute to energy efficiency by providing additional insulation. This can help reduce heating and cooling costs in your home.
Choosing the Right Underlayment
The choice of underlayment material is essential, as different types offer various benefits and are suited to different environments. Common underlayment materials include foam, cork, felt, and rubber. When selecting underlayment for your hardwood floors, consider factors such as the level of moisture in your area, the desired level of cushioning, and any specific soundproofing needs. Talk to your professional installer about the best options for your home if you’re not sure—their expertise will be invaluable in helping you make a decision!
Hardwood Flooring from Jason Brown Wood Floors
At Jason Brown Wood Floors, our commitment to quality installation is clear in all that we do, which is why our customers consistently rate us as one of the top contractors in the region. We have been awarded Baltimore Magazine’s Best of Baltimore Award 4 times and have been proudly serving the Baltimore Area for over 18 years. If you’re ready to speak with someone about your hardwood flooring project, we want to hear from you! Contact us at 410-668-9131 or send us a message here.
Jason Brown Wood Floors is also your convenient dealer of high-quality, professional-grade power tools. We offer brands that tradespeople trust most for the job. Come check out our Abingdon showroom to browse the in-stock selection of products and tools by Festool, Freud, Diablo, Shaper, Mirka, Makita, Saw Stop, and Grex.
Keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Houzz, and YouTube, and check out our blog for more news and information!