Cork underlay for laminate: pros and cons

Laminate today is one of the most popular options for finishing the floor in any room. To install it correctly, be sure to use a substrate.

A wide variety of diverse substrates are available on the market that are used as the basis for laminate flooring. Bthanks to this layer, it is possible to achieve enhanced thermal insulation properties of the floor. And also to increase the moisture resistance of the material, create a cushioning layer and correct possible irregularities in the base of the floor.

Cork substrate and its characteristics

Cork boards are based on cork oak bark.. Its peculiarity lies in the absence of special adhesive components and artificial additives in the composition.

The connecting link is the substance suberin, which releases the natural material itself..

Cork has the following basic characteristics.

  • Burns badly: refers to class C-209 according to the fire resistance table.
  • Low humidity, which is only 7% and no more.
  • Absorbs noise well, the ratio is about 0.85.
  • Conducts heat well, the indicator is approximately 0.043 W / mK.
  • The density of the material is 220-260 kg / m³.
  • Tensile strength - 2 kg / cm².

Important! It should be noted that for all its excellent operational properties, cork is a rather expensive material in relation to other materials.

In combination with an inexpensive laminate, such a basis does not always justify itself.

Pros and cons of cork backing

Cork base has a lot of advantages. She is conducts heat well, is resistant to deformation, isolates the room well from extraneous sounds. At the same time she green and has an extended service life.

Besides, The undoubted advantage is the large size of the coating.. Sheets are easily twisted into rolls; they are easy to transport and transport.

Bung perfectly breathable, allowing you to create a wonderful indoor climate. It also has the ability to absorb sounds. Therefore, the use of such a substrate will make moving around the room comfortable. It is safe and environmentally friendly, resistant to burning, therefore the use of cork as the basis for the laminate is considered the best option.

Important! Before buying, you must carefully study the characteristics of cork sheets and evaluate its ability to use in a particular room.

Of the minuses of this material, experts single out only one - its high cost. But this parameter is quickly smoothed out by indicators of long service life and ease of installation of sheets of cork.

Watch the video: Choosing the Right Flooring Underlayment. Lumber Liquidators (April 2024).

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