Not putting foam or underlayment under laminate flooring typically leads to noisy, uncomfortable floors that may warp, buckle, or fail prematurely. Because laminate is a "floating floor" that is not nailed down, it relies on this layer to provide a stable, cushioned base.
Moisture issues and uneven subfloors can result in laminate floor failure, costing you far more in repair costs than installing an underlayment.
Some Common Mistakes When Laying Laminate Flooring
High-density foam is the best choice for laminate flooring. Foam underlayment allows for the expansion and contraction of laminate floors, which helps prevent damage. It's also long-lasting, provides a smooth subfloor, and reduces sound transfer.
Yes, as long as the plywood is flat, level, and firm, you can often install laminate flooring right over the existing floor.
Installing a laminate floor can be a beginner-level project if you're working with a good subfloor and don't have to make a lot of complex cuts. There are a few cases where it's best to bring in a professional or someone that at least has some intermediate DIY experience.
The rule of 3 in flooring is a design principle that recommends using no more than three different flooring materials throughout a home to maintain visual cohesion. This guideline helps you create intentional transitions between spaces without overwhelming the eye.
What Do You Put Under Laminate Flooring?
While vinegar is a popular DIY cleaning solution, it's not recommended for laminate floors. Its acidic nature can dull the laminate's finish over time. Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for laminate flooring to ensure it remains vibrant and undamaged.
So, when deciding which carpet underlay – rubber or foam – remember that rubber will last longer, and offer greater impact resistance, but PU foam will be softer, warmer, quieter, and cheaper.
On average, laminate flooring can last 15 to 25 years with proper care and maintenance.
Wooden flooring – a fresh take on natural beauty
The year 2026 marks a time when wood regains its true power. Naturalness becomes the central theme in interior design, and wood tones – particularly warm, honey-coloured shades – will reign supreme in modern spaces.
The best months to buy flooring are late December through February and mid-May to early June. During winter, flooring stores clear out old inventory with deep discounts—often 15–30% off.
Underlayment, or “padding” as it's often called, is the spongy, closed-cell plastic foam sheet that comes in rolls. It is rolled out between the actual laminate flooring planks and the subfloor.
In the end, it's your decision if moisture protection and getting higher sound absorption is your goal. If not, then pre-attached underlayment will do it's job but at the minimum.
Laminate – Laminate flooring ALWAYS needs foam underlayment. Options range from standard padding to noise and moisture reducing options. Pre-Attached Laminate – Some laminate flooring comes with foam underlayment attached. In this circumstance, you do not need additional underlayment.
Mice have been known to chew through electrical wires, fiberglass insulation batts, and rigid foam insulation. Worst-case scenario, evidence of mice (in any part of a house) can cause problems when its time to sell the place.
Potential problems with spray foam insulation
reduce air circulation and ventilation within a roof space. lead to dampness and condensation on the underside of a roof because it forms an air barrier and stops moisture from escaping. place timber-framed roofs at risk of decay.
Deep Clean Occasionally
The best way to clean laminate floors is to use products made especially for them. If you don't have laminate floor cleaner, you can use a teaspoon of unscented clear dish soap in a gallon of water.
An easy way to fill in microscratches and shine wood floors is to polish your floors after mopping. After dusting and spray mopping, use a designated microfiber mop pad to apply polish to wood floors to add shine. Bona floor polish is easy to use and adds a protection and shine with every application.
Yes, you can use a wet Swiffer or Swiffer WetJet on laminate floors. "The wet Swiffer is best for quickly cleaning small spaces," Forte says.
A foam underlayment that is specifically designed for laminate flooring is the best choice and is available with or without an incorporated vapor barrier. If you are installing laminate flooring on the ground floor or in the basement, you should always purchase a foam underlayment with the vapor barrier.
1/2" plywood is too thin for most subfloor applications and will flex or sag, especially if joist spacing is 16 inches or more. This can lead to squeaky floors and structural issues. -> The minimum recommended is 5/8" plywood, but 3/4" is preferred for strength and long-term durability.
Without this protective layer, laminate planks can shift and create an uneven surface. Underlay comes with several other benefits too, including thermal insulation, sound reduction, moisture protection, and making your laminate flooring more durable.