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Best Underlayment For Laminate Flooring On Concrete (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your home’s flooring, laminate may be the way to go. And if you’re planning to install laminate flooring on concrete, you’ll need an underlayment to provide a smooth, level surface for your new floors. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which underlayment is right for you?

First and foremost, consider the thickness and density of the underlayment. A thicker underlayment will provide more cushioning and help reduce noise, while a denser underlayment may be more resistant to compression and may offer better moisture protection. Another important factor to consider is the installation method – some underlayments may come with self-adhesive backing, while others may require tape or glue. Be sure to choose an underlayment that is compatible with your flooring installation method.

Are you concerned about noise levels with your new flooring? Do you need an underlayment that can protect against moisture or provide extra cushioning? Choosing the right underlayment for your laminate flooring on concrete can make all the difference in terms of durability, comfort, and sound reduction. Keep these factors in mind when making your selection and enjoy a smooth, successful installation.

10 Best Underlayment For Laminate Flooring On Concrete

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for providing moisture protection and support for laminate and hardwood flooring installations.
2
The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring installations.
3
Ideal for providing sound reduction, compression resistance, and moisture protection for laminate flooring installation.
4
The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for wood and laminate flooring, providing comfort and sound reduction.
5
It is ideal for protecting against moisture and creating warmer, softer floors in a large area.
6
This product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring, including laminate, vinyl, WPC, SPC, bamboo, engineered, and solid hardwood.
7
This product is ideal for use as an underlayment padding with vapor barrier for wood, bamboo, and laminate flooring.
8
Ideal for reducing noise, moisture protection, and creating a smooth surface for laminate or engineered hardwood flooring.
9
It is ideal for use as an underlayment for engineered wood and laminate flooring to provide cushioning and insulation.
10
Ideal for demolishing flooring and hardwood, with a round handle for optimal grip and control.
The product is ideal for providing moisture protection and support for laminate and hardwood flooring installations.
The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring installations.
Ideal for providing sound reduction, compression resistance, and moisture protection for laminate flooring installation.
The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for wood and laminate flooring, providing comfort and sound reduction.
It is ideal for protecting against moisture and creating warmer, softer floors in a large area.
This product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring, including laminate, vinyl, WPC, SPC, bamboo, engineered, and solid hardwood.
This product is ideal for use as an underlayment padding with vapor barrier for wood, bamboo, and laminate flooring.
Ideal for reducing noise, moisture protection, and creating a smooth surface for laminate or engineered hardwood flooring.
It is ideal for use as an underlayment for engineered wood and laminate flooring to provide cushioning and insulation.
Ideal for demolishing flooring and hardwood, with a round handle for optimal grip and control.

1. Moisture-Proof Blue Flooring Underlayment For Laminate/hardwood (200 Sq.ft)

The 200 sq. ft. roll of underlayment is ideal for laminate, engineered wood, and solid hardwood floor systems. It is designed to protect your floors from harmful subfloor moisture with its built-in moisture blocking film, which eliminates the need for additional films. The cushioned foam underlayment helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections and irregularities, while also increasing thermal and sound insulation. The standard sound absorption feature helps to reduce noise in today’s active households and minimizes the hollow sound associated with floating floors. The installation process is made easy with the roll out design and included tape for connecting seams.

With this underlayment, you can maximize comfort in your home by creating a strong and stable foundation for your flooring. It provides a durable layer of protection that will help extend the life of your flooring and maintain its appearance over time.

Pros

  • Built-in moisture blocking film for added protection
  • Cushioned foam underlayment smooths out subfloor imperfections
  • Increases thermal and sound insulation
  • Standard sound absorption helps reduce noise
  • Easy roll out design with included tape for connecting seams

2. First Step 630-Square Foot Roll Underlayment

The First Step Premium 3-in-1 Underlayment, 100 sq. ft. Roll is a high-quality underlayment specifically designed for use with floating laminate and engineered wood flooring. This product is ideal for use on concrete slabs and wood subfloors that are on or above grade. The underlayment is easy to install and can help reduce sound transmission, increase comfort and even out minor sub-floor imperfections. The roll measures 40 in. x 189 ft., providing 630 sq. ft. of coverage, and includes an adhesive strip and a 4 in. overlap film, making it easy to link multiple rolls together. With a Sound Transmission Lost Test (STC) rating of 67 and Impact Sound Transmission Test (IIC) rating of 68, this underlayment offers excellent soundproofing capabilities. Additionally, it has an R-Value of .40, which makes it an energy-efficient choice for any home.

Upgrade your flooring installation with the First Step Premium 3-in-1 Underlayment. This product is durable, easy to install, and provides exceptional soundproofing and energy efficiency. Whether you're a professional installer or a DIY enthusiast, the First Step Premium 3-in-1 Underlayment is a great choice for your next project.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Reduces sound transmission
  • Increases comfort
  • Levels minor sub-floor corrections
  • Comes with adhesive strip and overlap film for easy linking of multiple rolls
  • High STC and IIC ratings for excellent soundproofing
  • Energy efficient with R-Value of .40

3. Whispershield Laminate Flooring Underlayment – 360 Sq. Ft.

This flooring underlayment is designed to be used with laminate, floating engineered, and luxury vinyl plank floors that are 5mm or thicker. It features a dense recycled fiber structure that supports the click-together mechanism and will maintain its supportive configuration even under consistent traffic. In addition, this underlayment offers superior sound reduction that helps to absorb sound and prevent it from traveling to other rooms, making click-together floors sound solid underfoot.

The recycled fibers also provide moisture protection by allowing installation over concrete to 'breathe', which helps manage vapors from becoming bulk moisture. The attached vapor barrier further protects the overlying floors from harmful moisture. This underlayment is approved for in-floor radiant heat systems, allowing heat to permeate evenly while helping to protect the floor covering material from thermal shock. Achieve warmth with the quiet warmth radiant heat system.

This underlayment is certified clean and safe for indoor air quality, with no VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) or off-gassing from materials. It is easy to install, simply roll it out and join the seam. It can be installed over wood or concrete subfloors, and each roll covers 360 sqft.

Pros

  • Can be used with laminate, floating engineered, and luxury vinyl plank floors 5mm or thicker
  • Superior sound reduction
  • Compression resistant
  • Provides moisture protection
  • Certified clean and safe for indoor air quality
  • Approved for in-floor radiant heat systems
  • Easy to install
  • Covers 360 sqft per roll

4. Roberts Serenity Foam Wood & Laminate Underlayment, 100 Sq. Ft. Roll

This roll of flooring underlayment is designed for use with wood subfloors, providing 100 sq. ft. of coverage. Measuring 25 ft. x 4 ft. x 3/32 in., it is suitable for use with laminate and engineered wood flooring. It is also compatible with radiant heated floors. If used with concrete slabs, a Moisture Barricade (Item# 70-115, sold separately) is recommended to ensure proper installation.

The roll is easy to install and provides a smooth surface for flooring. Its 3/32 inch thickness helps to absorb sound and provides added cushioning underfoot. The underlayment also helps to reduce moisture, preventing any damage to the flooring over time.

Overall, this flooring underlayment is a great choice for those looking for an effective and easy-to-install option for wood subfloors. It also offers flexibility with its compatibility with different types of flooring and radiant heated floors.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Provides a smooth surface for flooring
  • Reduces moisture to prevent damage to flooring
  • Suitable for use with different types of flooring
  • Compatible with radiant heated floors

Cons

  • – Moisture Barricade is sold separately for use with concrete slabs

5. Dricore Moisture-Proof Subfloor Panels: Warmer, Softer Floors.

The DRICORE Subfloor panels feature Air Gap Technology that protects against moisture and small water leaks, providing better indoor air quality. The high-density plastic membrane is designed for use with basement flooring, laminate, LVT, engineered hardwood, carpet, and tile. It also has a secondary layer of oriented strand board (OSB) that provides a solid foundation for any type of finished floor and furniture.

Installation is a breeze thanks to the tongue and groove design, which makes it quick and easy. With this design, a 495 sq. ft. room can be completed in an afternoon, making it ideal for renovation, refinishing floors, basement refinishing, and floor insulation.

The DRICORE Subfloor panel also offers warmer floors by elevating the finished floors to create a thermal break from the cold concrete floors. With an R-value of 3.0, the premium flooring membrane panel makes floors feel warm, helping you stay comfortable with floors that feel warmer all year round.

This subfloor membrane panel is compatible with all types of finished flooring, making it versatile and suitable for carpet. It is strong enough to support up to 6642 lbs. per sq. ft. and can be used with laminates, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), engineered hardwood, carpet, and tile.

The DRICORE Subfloor panel comes with a 25-year limited warranty, giving you confidence in your purchase. It is perfect for solid hardwood floors, wooden floors, and basement finishing, as it provides a layer of protection to help with moisture and cold coming from the concrete.

Pros

  • Air Gap Technology protects against moisture and small water leaks
  • Tongue and groove design makes installation quick and easy
  • Can be used with all types of finished flooring
  • Strong enough to support up to 6642 lbs. per sq. ft.
  • Comes with a 25-year limited warranty

6. Protech Advanced Foam Underlayment: Your Flooring Solution!

Enjoy a peaceful and comfortable flooring experience with this premium product. It offers excellent acoustic performance, keeping the noise level to a minimum. Additionally, it provides advanced thermal insulation that keeps your feet warm during winter and comfortable during summer. Its premium vapor barrier offers superior water and moisture protection, ensuring your subfloor remains dry and safe from mold and mildew.

With a stronger cell wall and premium cell design, this product has a long-lasting and durable structure that can withstand heavy foot traffic. It also offers better sound dampening, making it a perfect choice for homes with multiple floors or for those who enjoy listening to music. The self-sealing Lip N Tape system with pre-attached tape (end to end) and 3" overlap makes installation easy and hassle-free. Measuring 3 mm overall thickness and covering 400 sq.ft. per package, this product is an excellent choice for larger areas.

Upgrade your home with this premium product, and enjoy a comfortable and quiet flooring experience for years to come.

Pros

  • Advanced thermal insulation keeps feet warm in winter and comfortable in summer
  • Premium vapor barrier provides better water and moisture protection
  • Stronger cell wall and premium cell design for a long-lasting and durable structure
  • Better sound dampening
  • Self-sealing Lip N Tape system with pre-attached tape (end to end) and 3" overlap makes installation easy
  • Covers 400 sq.ft. per package, making it an excellent choice for larger areas

7. 3-In-1 Flooring Padding: Royal Blue Edition

Upgrade your flooring with this 4-pack of 800SQFT Heavy Duty Underlayment Padding with Tape and Moisture Barrier. Each roll is designed with dense foam to provide superior sound reduction under engineered and laminate flooring. Its anti-crush technology ensures excellent performance and long-lasting durability. The Royal Blue color adds a touch of elegance to any room. This underlayment padding is perfect for use with wood, bamboo, and laminate floors. Its 2mm closed foam technology effectively reduces sound, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

The Heavy Duty Underlayment Padding also includes a moisture barrier to protect your floors from moisture damage. The tape feature ensures easy installation, providing a hassle-free experience. With this underlayment padding, you can enjoy a quieter, more comfortable living space.

Each roll covers an area of 800SQFT, making it a great value for your money. With its excellent sound reduction and moisture protection, this underlayment padding is perfect for both residential and commercial use.

Pros

  • Dense foam provides excellent sound reduction under engineered and laminate flooring
  • Anti-crush technology for excellent performance and long life
  • 2mm closed foam technology for sound reduction
  • Includes a moisture barrier to protect your floors from moisture damage
  • Easy installation with tape feature

8. Floormuffler Ultra Seal Underlayment 300sf

This high-quality underlayment provides superior acoustic protection for your floors by reducing sound transmission and impact noise. The product is designed to provide an enhanced level of comfort and insulation, allowing you to enjoy a quieter and more comfortable living space.

In addition to its acoustic benefits, this underlayment also provides excellent moisture control, making it a perfect choice for use in areas with high humidity levels. It helps to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can cause damage to your floors and subfloor over time.

This underlayment is designed for use under laminate, engineered and solid hardwood floors. It is easy to install and comes in a contractor size roll, making it ideal for larger projects or professional installations.

Overall, this underlayment is an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality acoustic protection and moisture control for their floors. Its contractor size roll makes it a great value for larger projects, while its versatile design makes it suitable for use with a variety of flooring types.

Pros

  • Provides superior acoustic protection
  • Offers excellent moisture control
  • Suitable for use under laminate, engineered and solid hardwood floors
  • Easy to install
  • Comes in a contractor size roll for larger projects

9. Green Cushion Roll For Engineered Flooring – Roberts

This roll of underlayment is designed to be used with engineered wood and laminate flooring. It provides a cushioning effect over concrete and wood subfloors, ensuring a more comfortable walking experience. The roll measures 360 square feet, which covers a considerable area.

The underlayment has been tested for sound transmission and has received an STC rating of 66. This means that the underlayment is effective at reducing sound such as voices and television. Additionally, the underlayment has an IIC rating of 67, which measures sound such as moving furniture and walking. These ratings mean that the underlayment will reduce noise levels, providing a more peaceful living environment.

The roll measures 60 inches by 72 feet and comes in a single pack. It is easy to install and will provide a durable base for your flooring.

Pros

  • Provides cushioning over concrete and wood subfloors
  • Reduces sound levels for a more peaceful living environment
  • Easy to install
  • Durable base for flooring

10. Gutster 60" Round Handle Demolition Bar – Ultimate Flooring/hardwood Demolition Tool

The FASTER demolition tool is the world's most versatile tool that can save 50% to 70% of time on demolition projects according to industry feedback. This tool is designed to be fast, safe, and efficient. It comes with spear points, forks, and a nail puller at the back, making it perfect for removing flooring, subfloor, cabinets, drywall, trim, plaster, tile, and fasteners. The FASTER tool is built from high-strength steel, making it durable, lightweight, and incredibly useful. It can operate as a pry bar, demo bar, pallet buster, wrecking bar, floor removal tool, and more. The tool is designed to straddle the stud or joist to maximize leverage and provide a unique fulcrum point for prying. It is the perfect tool for contractors and homeowners who want to save time, money, and effort on demolition projects.

The FASTER demolition tool is designed to give the user better balance and more leverage than any demo tool. It is a safer alternative to other demo tools on the market, and it has been designed to reduce the risk of injury to the user. The tool is easy to use and can be operated by anyone, regardless of their experience level. It is perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts who want to get the job done quickly and safely.

Overall, the FASTER demolition tool is a must-have tool for anyone who wants to save time and money on demolition projects. It is versatile, durable, and safe, making it the perfect tool for any job. With its unique design and incredible performance, this tool is sure to become a favorite among contractors and homeowners alike.

Pros

  • Saves 50% to 70% of time on demolition projects according to industry feedback
  • Designed to be fast, safe, and efficient
  • Built from high-strength steel, making it durable, lightweight, and incredibly useful
  • Can operate as a pry bar, demo bar, pallet buster, wrecking bar, floor removal tool, and more
  • Designed to straddle the stud or joist to maximize leverage and provide a unique fulcrum point for prying
  • Safer alternative to other demo tools on the market, reducing the risk of injury to the user
  • Easy to use and can be operated by anyone, regardless of their experience level

Best Underlayment For Laminate Flooring On Concrete FAQs

Can you install laminate flooring without an underlayment on concrete?

It is not recommended to install laminate flooring without an underlayment on concrete. An underlayment serves as a barrier between the concrete and the laminate flooring, helping to reduce moisture, sound, and temperature transfer. Without an underlayment, the laminate flooring may not be able to withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity, leading to warping, buckling, and other issues. Additionally, the concrete may contain minor imperfections that could potentially affect the appearance and durability of the laminate flooring. While some laminate flooring manufacturers may claim that their products can be installed directly onto a concrete subfloor without an underlayment, it is generally considered best practice to install an underlayment regardless. Ultimately, installing an underlayment can help ensure that your laminate flooring looks and performs its best for years to come.

How do you prepare a concrete subfloor for laminate flooring underlayment installation?

Preparing a concrete subfloor for laminate flooring underlayment installation is an important step to ensure a smooth and even surface for your flooring. First, you need to clean the subfloor thoroughly to remove any debris or dust. Next, check for any cracks or holes in the concrete and fill them with a patching compound, allowing it to dry completely. If the subfloor is uneven, you can use a self-leveling compound to create a level surface. Once the subfloor is clean and level, you can install a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from seeping through the concrete. Finally, you can lay down the underlayment, making sure to overlap the seams and secure it in place with tape. Following these steps will ensure a proper installation of your laminate flooring and prolong the life of your flooring.

Is there a specific thickness of underlayment required for laminate flooring on concrete?

Yes, there is a specific thickness of underlayment required for laminate flooring on concrete. The minimum thickness of underlayment that is recommended for laminate flooring on concrete is 2mm. However, it is important to note that the thickness of underlayment required may vary depending on the type of laminate flooring being installed and the condition of the concrete subfloor.

The purpose of underlayment is to provide a cushioning effect that helps to absorb sound and impact, as well as to smooth out any unevenness in the subfloor. It also acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture from seeping up from the concrete subfloor and causing damage to the laminate flooring.

When choosing an underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete, it is important to select a product that is specifically designed for this purpose. Look for underlayments that have a built-in moisture barrier and are made from materials that are resistant to mold and mildew.

Overall, ensuring that the correct thickness and type of underlayment is used when installing laminate flooring on concrete is essential for achieving a smooth and durable finish that will last for years to come.

What are the benefits of using an underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete?

Using an underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete offers numerous benefits. Firstly, an underlayment provides a moisture barrier that prevents moisture from seeping through the concrete and damaging the laminate flooring. This is particularly important in areas with high humidity or in basements where moisture is a common problem. Secondly, an underlayment acts as a cushioning layer that helps to absorb sounds, reducing noise levels in the room. This is especially beneficial in multi-story buildings or apartments where noise can be a disturbance. Additionally, an underlayment can help to even out small imperfections in the concrete subfloor, creating a smoother surface for the laminate flooring to be installed on. Lastly, an underlayment can add an extra layer of insulation, keeping the room warmer in colder months and reducing energy costs. Overall, using an underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete can improve the longevity, appearance, and comfort of the flooring.

What type of underlayment is recommended for laminate flooring on concrete?

When it comes to installing laminate flooring on concrete, it is essential to choose the right type of underlayment to achieve a smooth and durable finish. The recommended type of underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete is a foam underlayment. This type of underlayment offers several benefits, including noise reduction, moisture protection, and insulation. Foam underlayment is made of high-density polyethylene foam and is available in different thicknesses, ranging from 2mm to 6mm. The thicker the underlayment, the better the insulation, noise reduction, and cushioning. Additionally, foam underlayment is easy to install and helps to level out any bumps or irregularities in the concrete subfloor. It is crucial to choose a high-quality foam underlayment that provides superior performance and durability. Overall, using a foam underlayment is the best way to ensure that your laminate flooring on concrete is installed correctly and will last for years to come.

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