The correct choice of an underlay cannot be underlined enough. Choosing a suitable underlay for your floor is just as important as the quality of the floor itself in order to enjoy your floor for many years to come. Below the most important points at a glance:
Laminate or PVC
It goes without saying: choose an underlay that matches your floor! For example, you cannot combine a PVC floor with a laminate underlay. You then choose a matching PVC underlay. The reason for this is mainly due to the difference in compressive strength of the subfloor. PVC floors and their click connections are generally thinner than laminate floors and require an underlay with a higher compressive strength than laminate floors.
Underfloor heating
It is important to check whether or not you use underfloor heating and which type. Certain subfloors are not suitable for use on a heated floor. Also take into account the distinction between underfloor heating by means of hot water pipes or electric cord.
Leveling power
The leveling capacity of your subfloor indicates the extent to which you can eliminate unevenness in the base floor with this subfloor. Consider, for example, small height differences in your concrete slab. The thickness of the subfloor is directly linked to its leveling capacity. For example, a thicker sub-floor will be able to eliminate larger unevenness than a thinner sub-floor.
Do you have to deal with very large irregularities (5mm or more)? Then use chipboard first. With a sloping floor - with a level difference of 0.5 cm or more - you must first level the floor using leveling grains or leveling mortar.