Parquet Underlays
A parquet underlay is laid beneath floating parquet or laminate to even out minor irregularities in the subfloor and reduce footfall noise. Our range includes Quick-Step underlays, including Secura XPS Max and Tuplex, as well as parquet foam underlays with and without a vapour barrier.
The Importance of Underlay for Floating Installation of Parquet
For floating installation, every parquet requires a proper underlay with the following key functions:
- Moisture Protection: On concrete subfloors, underlay with a moisture barrier prevents excessive moisture from reaching the parquet. For SPC and LVT vinyl flooring, a moisture barrier is not necessary.
- Levelling Minor Unevenness: The underlay can correct minor unevenness in the subfloor, but major irregularities need to be levelled beforehand.
- Noise Reduction: The underlay reduces footstep and impact noise, improving room acoustics.
- Compression Resistance: For thin and small-format floor coverings, it is essential to use high-compression-resistant underlay to avoid floor sagging and damage to click connections.
- Thermal Resistance: For underfloor heating, dense and heavy underlays are preferred, with thermal resistance not exceeding 0.01 m² × K/W.
During installation, ensure that the underlay edges do not overlap. If using a moisture barrier, tape the joints and optionally extend the barrier 1 cm up the wall to protect the floor covering from damp concrete.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need an underlay under parquet?
An underlay evens out minor irregularities in the subfloor, dampens footfall noise and reduces stress on the joints. Without an underlay, floating parquet may creak underfoot and the joints can wear more quickly.
Do I need a damp-proof membrane on a concrete floor?
Yes, on concrete and screed there must be a damp-proof membrane under the parquet so that rising moisture from the subfloor doesn't damage the wood. Underlays with an integrated membrane already have one; otherwise, lay a separate membrane with overlapping joins.
Which underlay is suitable for underfloor heating?
Over underfloor heating, choose an underlay with low thermal resistance so that heat reaches the room efficiently. The underlay's thermal resistance is listed in the product details and should be considered together with that of the parquet itself.
Do I need an underlay under glued-down parquet?
No, glued-down parquet is laid without an underlay – it is bonded directly to a levelled, dry subfloor. An underlay is only used for floating installation.