The moment I saw the hardwood flooring I’d chosen, I knew it was perfect. Rich, deep brown, with a beautiful grain pattern, it was exactly what my living room needed. But as I started planning the installation, a question popped up: could I use the roofing felt I had leftover from a recent project as underlayment? It seemed like a budget-friendly, practical solution, but was it a good idea?
Image: roofshingles.com.au
Turns out, using roofing paper for hardwood floor underlayment can be more trouble than it’s worth. While it might seem like a cost-effective solution, there are crucial factors to consider that can affect the longevity and performance of your flooring. This article will explore the reasons why roofing paper is generally not a suitable underlayment for hardwood floors and how to choose the right underlayment for your needs.
Understanding Hardwood Floor Underlayment
Why is Underlayment Essential?
Underlayment is a crucial component of any hardwood floor installation. It sits between the subfloor and the hardwood planks, providing a variety of benefits, including:
- Sound Reduction: Underlayment absorbs noise from foot traffic, making your floors quieter.
- Shock Absorption: It cushions the impact of footsteps, creating a more comfortable walking experience.
- Moisture Barrier: Certain underlayments act as a moisture barrier, protecting your hardwood floor from damage caused by excess moisture from the subfloor.
- Levelling the Subfloor: Underlayment can help compensate for minor imperfections in your subfloor, leading to a smoother and more even installation.
Choosing the right underlayment is critical for a successful hardwood floor installation.
Why Is Roofing Paper Generally Not Suitable?
While roofing paper might seem like a cheap alternative to specialized underlayment, its use for floors carries several drawbacks:
- Lack of Sound Absorption: Roofing felt offers minimal sound dampening. You’ll still hear every creak and groan, compromising the comfort and quietness of your floor.
- Inadequate Shock Absorption: It provides limited cushioning, meaning every step will feel harder and more jarring, especially on solid wood floors.
- Moisture Concerns: Roofing felt can absorb moisture, creating a damp environment that can promote mold growth and damage your hardwood floor.
- Not Designed for the Purpose: Roofing paper is engineered for a different purpose (protecting roofs from the elements) and lacks the essential qualities required for a good hardwood floor underlayment.
Using roofing paper as underlayment can ultimately lead to more expensive problems in the long run, such as squeaky floors, floor damage, and potential health issues related to mold.
Instead of taking risks, it’s crucial to invest in an underlayment designed specifically for wood floors.
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Choosing the Right Underlayment for Your Hardwood Floors
The best underlayment will depend on your specific needs and the type of hardwood floor you have. Some options include:
- Foam Underlayment: This type offers excellent sound absorption and impact cushioning. It’s a popular choice for residential applications.
- Cork Underlayment: Known for its natural properties, cork provides sound dampening, shock absorption, and a degree of moisture resistance. It’s a good option for those seeking sustainable and environmentally friendly underlayment.
- Rubber Underlayment: This option provides superior sound absorption and moisture resistance. It’s particularly suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic or those experiencing potential moisture problems.
- Synthetic Fiber Underlayment: This type often consists of recycled materials and can offer good moisture resistance and sound dampening capabilities.
Consult with your flooring installer to determine the most suitable underlayment for your situation, taking factors such as floor type, subfloor condition, expected traffic, and personal preferences into account.
While the thought of using roofing paper might seem appealing initially, it’s important to prioritize the long-term health and performance of your hardwood floors. Opting for a specialized underlayment designed for wood floors will ensure your installation is sound, comfortable, and durable, ensuring you enjoy your investment for years to come.
Tips for Installing Hardwood Floor Underlayment
Installing an underlayment might seem daunting, but it’s often a DIY-friendly task if you have basic tools and a little patience.
- Measure Carefully: Ensure you have enough underlayment material to cover the entire floor area. It’s always better to have a little extra.
- Prepare the Subfloor: Before laying the underlayment, ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and free of any debris or bumps. Fix any unevenness or significant imperfections to ensure a smooth and level surface.
- Proper Overlap: Most underlayments should be installed with a slight overlap (usually indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions). This prevents gaps and ensures a continuous surface.
- Secure the Edges: Use staples or tape (depending on the underlayment type) to secure the edges of the underlayment to the subfloor, preventing movement or slipping during installation.
- Consider Professional Installation: If you are unsure about your installation skills or the complexity of the project, it’s always advisable to seek professional help from a reputable flooring installer.
Following these tips and choosing the right underlayment will ensure a successful hardwood floor installation that stands the test of time.
FAQ:
Is it okay to use roofing paper for plywood subflooring?
While roofing paper can be used as a moisture barrier under plywood subflooring, it’s not recommended as a primary underlayment for hardwood floors. Roofing paper does not provide the necessary sound absorption and shock absorption for a comfortable and durable hardwood floor.
Can I use roofing paper under engineered hardwood floors?
No, it’s generally not recommended to use roofing paper under engineered hardwood floors. Engineered wood is more sensitive to moisture than solid hardwood, and roofing paper can trap moisture, contributing to floor damage and potential warping.
What are the benefits of using underlayment for hardwood floors?
Underlayment offers a range of benefits for hardwood floors, including sound dampening, shock absorption, moisture resistance, and even leveling the subfloor for a smoother installation.
Can I Use Roofing Paper For Hardwood Floor Underlayment
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while roofing paper might seem like a cost-effective solution, it’s not an appropriate alternative for hardwood floor underlayment. Prioritize the long-term performance and comfort of your floor by investing in a specialized underlayment designed for wood floors. Remember, quality underlayment is a critical factor in ensuring the beauty and longevity of your hardwood floor installation.
Did you find this information helpful? Are you considering installing hardwood floors in your home? Share your questions and experiences in the comments section below!
