Polystyrene substrate d floor 5 mm. Extruded polystyrene foam underlay

Of particular importance among the additional material for the finishing installation of any floor covering is a special underlay. Its immediate tasks are to provide sound absorption and warmth of the floor, to hide its minor irregularities, etc. There is a huge range of substrates on the market, made from a variety of materials. But a special niche was occupied by polystyrene models.

Polystyrene - in simple words, polystyrene or one of its types. It is produced in the form of slabs of sheets with small-small pores; the product has a smooth surface, pleasant to the touch, or corrugated. The preparation of polystyrene is carried out by the process of foaming a certain substance, and when using steam, water and volatile oil products, an almost weightless material with a cellular structure is formed. In everyday life, it is called "sheet support"

Advantages of polystyrene backing

However, its airiness is ostentatious, since strength, hydro and thermal insulation are ideal. Despite the fact that the material contains volatile oil products, it is absolutely safe for human health.

In addition, such a backing will stand guard over your floor covering and protect it from moisture, mildew or mildew. It will endure any load and at the same time will not lose its quality properties, as, in principle, the floor covering itself. The cellular structure and foil layer guarantee almost 100% low thermal conductivity of the material.

Its main advantages are:

• very high degree of protection against the formation of fungus, mold;

• the highest level of thermal insulation;

• good protection against noise;

• strength and reliability;

• moisture protection.

However, such products also have some disadvantages. This is a high cost, low cushioning properties and the absence of micro-ventilation.

Types of polystyrene foam substrates

There are numerous types and sizes of this material on the market today. It is sold in sections, which are connected with foil sheets. The products are available in several types. There is foamed polyethylene, and there is foamed polystyrene. However, these types should not be confused.

The first belongs to the segment of the budget and the cheapest, respectively, does not differ in quality. Yes, it is not afraid of moisture, mold or mildew, but not very good in sound insulation and durability, i.e. short-lived.

The second option has a solid structure and lasts a long time. It is also not afraid of moisture, fits perfectly, filling in small irregularities, has acceptable sound-absorbing and heat-insulating qualities.

In addition to these two types, there is also a foil-clad composite. This underlay will be an excellent and optimal choice for a floor covering, especially for a "warm floor" system. The foil layer applied to the expanded polystyrene reflects heat rays and increases the efficiency of the "warm floor" system at times. This significantly reduces energy and heating costs.

Another type is an extruded composite. Its distinguishing feature from the previous version is the production technology. It also stands out for such advantages as a high degree of sound insulation, ease of installation, and excellent resistance to moisture. The material is not afraid of chemical or biological effects, it is ideally resistant to stress. Despite its synthetic properties, it is absolutely safe for human health.

The ideal thickness for this product is 3 mm, but you can also find substrates with a thickness of 2 mm and 5 mm. The substrate for the laminate is usually chosen with a thickness of 3 mm, and when installing the parquet board, 5 mm is used.

Features of laying an extruded polystyrene substrate

Video "Laying polystyrene backing sheet"

Laying this underlay is quite simple, but requires additional preparation. It is necessary to level the subfloor as much as possible. To increase the soundproofing properties of the floor, it is necessary to lay a special film with thermoacoustic properties. And then the polystyrene backing should be laid. At the joints, it is fixed with masking tape.

When arranging the flooring, an important role is played not only by a high-quality finishing material, but also by the whole cake, starting from the base. An important role is played by the substrate, which compensates for the load during walking, reduces the "sonorous" coating and protects it from moisture. Expanded polystyrene under the laminate is used quite often and this is due to its unique performance properties.

Expanded polystyrene has several varieties, depending on the method of its manufacture.

Table 1. Varieties of expanded polystyrene

Name	Description
	Expanded polystyrene with PSB (EPS) marking is used for wall insulation. Its version marked PSB - C is less fire hazardous.
	XPS material has high compressive strength.
	Material marked PS-1, PS-4 has a high density.

Characteristics of extruded polystyrene foam

Most often, substrates made of this material are used under the laminate. The peculiarity of its structure lies in evenly spaced closed cells, which ensures the moisture resistance of the material. The production of the substrate takes place using an extrusion molding machine, where polystyrene, together with a blowing agent, is fed through a narrow nozzle under high pressure and high temperatures. The result is a material with a low density (30-40 kg / m³).

The material does not rot and does not absorb moisture. When wet, water does not penetrate beyond the open lateral combs on the cut. It is distinguished from analogues by its great strength and thermal insulation properties. Substrates from this material are produced in rolls and in the form of sheets, 1000 x 500 x 3 mm in size.

Table 2. Characteristics of expanded polystyrene

Advantages and disadvantages of the material

Of the advantages of expanded polystyrene substrates, the following are noted:

1. The high strength and durability of the material allows you to create a high-quality floor covering that will maintain its integrity and aesthetic appeal for many years.
2. The porous structure guarantees high thermal insulation properties of such a substrate.
3. The embossed surface provides natural air circulation between the substrate and the base, while moisture and condensation will not penetrate beyond the substrate.
4. The thickness of the substrate allows you to hide minor irregularities in the substrate.
5. The material is not afraid of low temperatures, therefore it can be used in unheated rooms.
6. Laminate is a rather resonant coating, and the substrate with a porous structure in the form of sealed cells filled with air is excellent at absorbing noise.
7. The material is lightweight and convenient in size, which makes it easy to transport and install.
8. The cellular structure and homogeneous composition make this material resistant to ammonia, alcohol, propane, salts and alkalis.
9. Expanded polystyrene does not change its physical properties even under heavy loads.
10. The material is not subject to decay, it is environmentally friendly and safe for humans and the environment.

Among the disadvantages, a small thickness of the substrate is noted, due to which it has a low leveling ability. Therefore, the base must be leveled with special compounds or slabs. Otherwise, if the difference exceeds 1 cm, after some time a creak will appear when walking on the laminate.

Another disadvantage is that the material is not sold in pieces. If the room is small, you still have to buy all the packaging.

Types of substrates

Expanded polystyrene is used to make several types of materials that can be used as a substrate for a laminate. They differ in thickness and performance. Expanded polystyrene boards are often equipped with end milled grooves to ensure a snug fit of the elements to each other.

Note! Due to the low coefficient of water absorption, the substrate made of extruded polystyrene foam can be safely used in the premises of the first floor, without focusing on the depth of the groundwater.

To insulate the laminate flooring, it is sufficient to use a 3 mm underlay. It is produced in the form of sheets of 20 pieces per pack. Convenient is the base folded in an accordion. A minimum number of joints is formed between such sheets due to the fact that the material, when unfolded, fits over the entire length of the room.

Polystyrene backing sheet for the floor

As noted earlier, the expanded polystyrene backing can be in roll form or in sheets. The second variety is produced in the form of separate plates or an accordion. They differ only in the way they are laid.

When stacking sheets in an accordion manner, be careful not to damage the joint of the sheets. If this happens, then the gap is sealed with ordinary tape. Also, with the help of adhesive tape, separate sheets are fastened together so that they do not scatter. The advantage of the accordion is that it is laid much faster.

With a sheet length of 1000 - 1200 mm and a width of 500 - 600 mm, the thickness of the product can vary from 2 to 5 mm. There are several types of sheet substrates.

"Solid" 2 mm thick

This type can be used in a floor heating system. The density of the solid sheet substrate with a thickness of 2 mm is 40 kg / m³. To prevent the substrate from being an obstacle in the path of the heat flow coming from the coolant, it has perforations.

Note! Since the leveling ability of a material with such a thickness is minimal, and the laminate must be laid on a flat base, it is necessary to carefully consider the preparatory stage.

When installing the coolant (pipes with water or an electric cable) in the screed, during the operation of the warm floor, make sure that its temperature does not exceed 28 degrees. When creating a vapor barrier layer, the substrate may not have perforations.

If an infrared underfloor heating is being installed, when the heating elements are laid directly on the substrate, a material without perforation should be chosen in order to exclude heat loss.

The cost of this type of polystyrene foam substrates starts from 60 r / m². The package contains material for covering a surface of 8.4 m².

Foam polystyrene underlay "Solid" with a thickness of 2 mm is recommended to be purchased for an electric or water heated floor.

"Solid" 3 mm thick

The 3 mm thick underlay is more comfortable to work with and has a better leveling effect. The ribbed surface on the back of the sheet promotes shrinkage of the material under stress.

A kind of expanded polystyrene backing in the form of an accordion has a length of 10 meters and is designed for an area of ​​10.5 m². Its density averages 45 kg / m³. There is no ribbing on the back. Compared to foamed underlays, which are also often used when laying laminate flooring, this option is more dense and durable.

As previously noted, accordion-shaped material fits faster than sheet-like counterparts. The cost of the material starts from 55 rubles per m² and exceeds the price of a foamed roll analogue.

Aberhof 5 mm

Aberhof 5mm sheet underlay is sold in 10 sheets per pack for a 5.25 m² area. The size of one sheet is 1050 x 500 x 5 mm. This variety is characterized by higher sound and heat insulation properties (higher than that of a three-millimeter by about 2%). The density of the sheet is 35 kg / m³. The advantage of the material is its high leveling capacity (3.5 mm).

When using such a substrate on an uneven floor, it must be borne in mind that it shrinks over time. However, this type of underlayment is best for installing laminate and parquet flooring in uneven substrates.

Pros and cons

Extruded sheet polystyrene foam substrate has the following positive properties:

1. High density and long service life when compared to foamed counterpart.
2. Relatively low cost, which starts from 20 rubles per 1 m².
3. The material does not rot or mold.
4. It is produced in a convenient format and packaging, which facilitates the process of transportation and stacking.

Among the shortcomings are noted:

1. Flammability of the material.
2. The bundle may contain defective curved sheets.
3. Due to fragility, the sheets must be stacked carefully.
4. You need a perfectly flat and clean base without small stones that can break the integrity of the sheet.
5. The need to use a vapor barrier film.

Table 3. Average cost of material

In my activity, when laying laminate, I come across various types of materials. As insulation, a sheet substrate made of extruded polystyrene foam is regularly found, which will be discussed in this article.

Polystyrene was invented and patented in France in 1930. Extruded polystyrene foam was first created in the United States in 1941, the product belongs to the petrochemical industry.

Polystyrene is formed by polymerization of styrene. A viscous mass is passed through the stirring reactors with benzene with a gradual increase in temperature in stages. Unreacted styrene is removed by vacuum. At the exit, we get a pure product, stably inert. That is, in a normal, non-aggressive environment, it is safe.

The density of polystyrene is just over 1000 kg / m3. Get it in the form of cylindrical granules. They are made from polystyrene during further processing: plastic disposable tableware with the (PS) sign, sandwich panels, decorative molding, backing and much more.

Expanded polystyrene - a brief description and composition

Expanded polystyrene is obtained by gassing. A multiple increase in volume occurs due to filling the granules with carbon dioxide or natural gas. The combustibility of expanded polystyrene depends on this.

We obtain material of various density from 40-150 kg / m3. The strength of the composition and the vapor and air permeability depend on the specific gravity. I draw your attention to the fact that this is not a finished substrate yet. In further processing, the density of the material will be reduced.

Extruded polystyrene foam - characteristics, composition

Actually, we got to the material from which the insulation is made. The extrusion molding machine at high pressure and high temperatures through a narrow nozzle using a blowing agent feeds polystyrene. Aeration of the mass occurs. At the exit, we get, depending on the type of machine, the finished product. In our case, this is a substrate for a laminate made of expanded polystyrene.

The density of extruded polystyrene foam is low - about 30-40 kg / m3. With a given specific gravity, the material has relative hardness, brittleness, and high thermal insulation.

Polystyrene backing sheet for the floor

The substrate can be supplied in the form of rolls and more compact - sheet plates.

Extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) laminate backing is available in two types:

• leaf
• roll

The sheet substrate, in turn, can be divided into varieties:

• individual plates
• harmonic

The main difference between them is only in the way of laying. The name of the substrate - accordion speaks for itself.

It is necessary to lay it carefully, the connection of the plates is gentle. In case of rupture along the seam, tape the panels together. The requirement to bond the material is due to the ease of the litter and its mobility from air gusts. The accordion substrate is faster than the usual sheet counterpart in terms of installation speed.

The material is supplied in cellophane packaging. The size of the plates is 500-600 mm in width and 1000-1200 mm in length. The color of the lining directly depends on the dye: blue, pink, green, gray - for every taste.

The thickness of the substrate is varied: 2, 3, 5 mm.

Sheet underlay for laminate "Solid" 2 mm

For example, a sheet underlay for a laminate under a warm floor will be taken. Better insulation under underfloor heating.

Sheet substrate "Solid" has a thickness of 2 mm and a density of about 40 kg / m3. The sheets are perforated to distribute the incoming warm air flows from the heated floor.

One well-known large retailer "Leroy-Merlin" has different data on the leveling ability of the lining. One thing is indicated in the description, other information in the characteristics. It should be noted that any insulation with a thickness of 2 mm has little ability to remove unevenness in the base. So think about what to believe - you can break your head from research.

The second contradiction from one trading company is the impossibility of using most brands of laminate under water heating systems. The annotation of the Solid underlayment indicates that it is suitable for warm water floors.

Perhaps the manufacturers of laminate floors need to pass the appropriate certification, which is worth the money and they are in no hurry to invest it. Or maybe they are afraid of the release of condensate vapors that can ruin the flooring. In any case, for the manufacturer, the less opportunity to provide a guarantee is beneficial, which they do.

No warranty is provided for the installation of laminate flooring without the use of 200 micron or 0.2 mm thick film..

The electric floor is hidden under a cement screed. Therefore, its use will not harm either the laminate or the insulation, if the recommended temperature is observed, which is 28 degrees Celsius for most laminate floors.

However, Styrofoam is a poor thermal conductor and I am not sure that perforation in a positive way will significantly affect the energy savings in your home. Moreover, to maintain the guarantee, there is a need to lay a vapor barrier film.

In this case, any substrate can be used under the laminate, without the use of ventilation holes.

Infrared underfloor heating, currently the most popular - is laid directly on the substrate. Then, the holes, on the contrary, will theoretically serve for the release of thermal energy into the floor screed. And the thickness of this "Solid" lining, which is 2 mm, is too thin and the clamps will need to be sunk into the concrete base.

The price of a sheet underlay "Solid" with perforation for underfloor heating is from 60 rubles / m2. Sold in packs of 8.4 m2.

Summary of underlay "Solid" 2mm with perforation for underfloor heating

Pay attention to the substrate when using warm electric or water floors. However, the low leveling ability and the need to use a vapor barrier film make it difficult to comply with the warranty service.

Sheet underlay for laminate "Solid" 3 mm

It is more comfortable to work with a 3 mm thick backing sheet. The main point is the greater leveling capability. In case of unevenness of the base under the weight of the laminate and furniture, it squeezes over the knobbiness over time. In this way, alignment occurs. Shrinkage is facilitated by surface ribbing, which is regularly found on the reverse side of various types of substrates with a thickness of 3 mm.

For example, let's take a solid 3 mm substrate in the famous Petrovich store. Packaging 10.5 m2. The length is 10 meters, the width is 1050 mm. It unfolds like an accordion.

The particular thing that interests me about extruded insulation is the density of the material. The characteristics indicate that the density is 45 kg / m3. This is the average.

In one summary table of Runet, the minimum value for extruded polystyrene is 33 kg / m3, in our case 45 kg / m3, in well-known specialized markets they sell a substrate without specifying the manufacturer with a density of 55 kg / m3, which suggests some thoughts about a possible substitution of characteristics. Since hardly anyone will bother to measure the density of the substrate, and it is quite difficult to do it. The weight of the package is not indicated everywhere, and the presence of ribbing reduces the possibility of measuring to zero.

The accordion substrate does not have ribbing, therefore, using the specified characteristics, in the Petrovich store, beloved by many builders, we can easily recalculate the density of the material.

Compound: extruded polystyrene foam (XPS).

Dimensions: thickness 3 mm, width 1.05 m, length 10 m.

Density: 45 kg / m³

Color: Orange.

Manufacturer: Russia.

Gross weight: 1.39 kg.

10 * 1.05 = 10.5 m2 - substrate area

10.5 * 0.003 (3mm thickness translated into meters) = 0.0315 m3 - the resulting volume

45 * 0.0315 = 1.4175 kg - the package must weigh net

1.39 / 0.0315 = 44.12 is the actual density of the lining

As you can see, the difference is just over two percent. This difference does not represent any value.

However, sellers of extrusive expanded polystyrene insulation argue in favor of this substrate, compared to . Higher material density and longer service life are good reasons.

The foamed substrate, according to various sources, has a density of 20-50 kg / m3. Which in maximum values ​​is comparable to extrusion. If we focus on the density of comparable materials, then they are almost the same; extruded polystyrene has a slight advantage.

Resume about the substrate "Solid" - accordion 3 mm

The underlay is quite quick to install compared to conventional insulation sheets, but inferior to foamed roll material. I consider this moment important for those who want to install the laminate on their own for the first time. It is always difficult to do something for the first time and too much time to devote time to any simple aspect. To put it bluntly, you can become impatient with flooring without actually doing anything.

The price of "Solid" 3 mm is about 55 rubles per m2. Which is much more expensive than foamed bedding, but inferior to more expensive ones: Tuplex, Profitex, cork ... For the calculation, it must be borne in mind that the sheet backing from the masters is usually not included in the cost of laying floor coverings, so the total price rises to 75 rubles per square meter, which is comparable to expensive insulation.

Sheet underlay for laminate "Aberhof" 5 mm

For example, I present a sheet substrate for Aberhof laminate 5 mm. It is already difficult to write anything at all about the material, about which almost everything has been said above.

The substrate is made of expanded polystyrene by extrusion. The official website contains modest information about the characteristics. The package consists of 10 sheets, with an area of ​​5.25 m2, measuring 1050 mm by 500 mm and 5 mm thick.

The 5 mm backing has higher sound and thermal insulation properties than the 3 mm backing, on average by 20%.

The density of the slab is 35 kg / m3.

The 5 mm backing has high leveling values ​​up to 3.5 mm.

For extruded polystyrene foam, the specific gravity of the Aberhof lining is quite low. Depressing is the lack of information on the site about passing fire certification, compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements, and a certificate of compliance with the PCT.

Summary of 5mm Aberhof Substrate

Please note that manufacturers of laminate flooring do not extend the warranty for floor coverings with a used underlay more than 3 mm thick.

I see the use of sheet Aberhof 5 mm with a limited budget for leveling the floor level between rooms. Keep in mind that the lining will shrink over time.

The test material is indispensable for laminate or parquet flooring in rooms with uneven substrates. When there is no time and opportunity to align.

Roll substrate from extruded polystyrene "Solid"

This product is supplied in rolls with an area of ​​16.5 m2. The blade is 15 meters long, 1.1 meters wide, and 2 mm thick.

A density of 50 kg / m3 is considered high.

The flammability class of the G4 material is highly flammable.

The figures have not been documented on the site. No certificates found.

Summary of 2 mm solid roll substrate

Roll backing is extremely difficult to work with. Easily breaks, rolls back into a roll. You have to press it against the concrete base with improvised means.

Really use 15 square meters. Closer to the base, the lining becomes spherical when viewed in profile. To be able to lay, you need to cut it into pieces. It all looks extremely unprofessional.

The price of a roll substrate made of extruded polystyrene 2 mm is about 35-40 rubles / m2.

I express my deep conviction. It is better not to buy this insulation.

Pros and cons of extruded polystyrene foam backing sheet

We consider sheet insulation for comparison, since it is more widespread than roll insulation.

Pros of sheet extruded substrate

• Higher density and more likely durability than foam bedding.
• Relatively low price from 35 rubles / m2.
• The insulation is not susceptible to decay and mold.
• Compactness of storage.

Cons of sheet extruded substrate

• High flammability of the material.
• More significant time of laying in comparison with roll "Plenex".
• The curved shape of the sheets is regularly encountered.
• Brittleness of the material.
• The lining is "partial" to a poorly prepared base. Small stones tear the "body" of the extrusion.
• To comply with the guarantee, the requirement of laminate manufacturers to lay a vapor barrier foam.

Delivery of goods in Moscow and the Moscow region is carried out by our own trucks within a pre-agreed time frame and depends on the weight and category of your goods.

The cost of delivery of goods weighing more than 1500 kg, please check with the manager.

* Free delivery of goods of the "Light" category is carried out when ordering from 1000 rubles.

We deliver orders from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00. On the day of delivery, the driver will contact you 1.5 hours before arrival. If delivery is convenient for you at other hours, please check the conditions with the manager. Delivery after 18:00 is charged separately. Each additional hour after 18:00 + 400 rubles to the cost of delivery.

Pickup of goods is available by prior arrangement, after confirmation of the receipt of the order at the pickup warehouse.

Please note that upon receipt of goods by legal entities, a power of attorney is required, for individuals - an identity document.

DELIVERY TO REGIONS OF RUSSIA

Delivery to the regions of Russia (except for Moscow and the Moscow region):

Delivery of orders to the regions is carried out through transport companies. We deliver and ship your order to the carrier. You can independently calculate the cost of delivering an order to your region; for this, almost every transport company on the official website has an online calculator. You need to enter certain values ​​(weight and volume, number of places), points of departure and destination!

Upon receipt of the order, you will need to pay the cost of transport services. The cost of delivery to the warehouse of the transport company is calculated according to the rates of local delivery.

Below are the websites of the most popular and reliable transport companies:

#	Transport companies
1	Business Line
2	PEC
3	ZhelDorExpedition
4	ZheldorAlliance
5	BaikalService
6	WHALE

Also, delivery can be carried out by any other transport company of your choice.

If for some reason you want us to send your order by another transport company, just tell us its coordinates, and we will send the goods as quickly as possible.

Delivery to the regions of the Russian Federation is made only after a full prepayment of the cost of the purchased goods (receipt of funds to the account of the store).

Review of the best of the most popular

To recommend you the best substrates, we took into account the opinion of representatives of the manufacturers of the most popular brands of laminate flooring, analyzed the reviews of masters and users on specialized Internet resources and construction forums, technical characteristics of materials.

Selection criteria

The selection was made by us on the basis of the parameters below, which we offer you to be guided by when choosing.

Noise absorption

This refers to the absorption of "impact" (reflected and transmitted) noise. The reflected noise you hear when you walk on the floor is the one that is heard by your neighbors below. Let's make it clear right away: NO substrate will save YOU from the noise of the neighbors below you, it is YOU who save them from the rumble of your heels.

Relation to moisture

Substrates from different groups react differently to moisture. Please note that a prerequisite for a guarantee for a laminate from manufacturers is the presence of a waterproofing film with a thickness of 200 microns or more.

Thermal insulation

This indicator is important if the floors are located above basements, unheated garages, walkways.

Density, thickness

For laminate flooring, the ideal is the most solid base. In this case, the wear of the locks will be minimal. The softer and thicker the substrate, the faster the coating will deteriorate. If the thickness is greater than the optimal (!) 3 mm, then there is a high probability of the appearance of gaps due to wear of the locks.

Reaction to unevenness of the base floor

The denser the material (and the cork has the highest density), the worse its leveling ability and the more carefully the base should be leveled. There is nothing you can align with the curvature of a large radius!

Lifetime

It is economically impractical to lay a cheap polyethylene backing under an expensive laminate with a life expectancy of 15 years, which will wear off in a couple of years.

Suitability for use with warm floors

This characteristic is relevant for those who plan to install laminate flooring on warm floors.

Ease of laying

Some types of roll substrates (cork, in particular) tend to curl up when laid. In this case, it is better to take sheet material.

The best manufacturers (brands) of substrates

Well-known laminate manufacturers strongly recommend using branded substrates for their products. Otherwise, they reserve the right to refuse consideration of the claim, if any. However, they all favor cork substrates from Portugal and VTM grade extruded polystyrene. Excellent reviews about Parkolag and Izoplin from both stackers and buyers. Quick Step PSE substrates have proven their worth in the field. But the domestic analogue will provide you with "bubbles" and "waves" after styling. We also do not recommend extruded polystyrene of Russian and Chinese brands: in the product descriptions, their characteristics are overestimated.

OUR RATING OF THE BEST SUBSTRATES

Place	Name	average price	Nomination	Description	Our rating
The best natural substrates
1.	Premium Cork (Cork), Portugal	RUB 90 / m2 (2 mm) 145 rubles / m2 (3 mm)	Natural cork Highest density Lowest thermal conductivity	Material "technical cork" made of pressed bark of cork. Possesses great resistance to deformation, good noise and vibration absorption, excellent thermal insulation properties. It fits exclusively on a thick film. Sold in rolls and sheets. Not recommended for heated floors.	9 out of 10
2.	PARCOLAG	RUB 95 / m2 (3 mm)	Bituminous cork Best characteristics	Ventilated backing. It is a kraft paper impregnated with natural bitumen with natural cork dressing (granules of 2-3 mm in size). It is characterized by high noise absorption, excellent noise and moisture insulation. Roll material.	9 out of 10
3.	Isoplaat	RUB 55 / m2	Better thermal insulation, acoustics, leveling	Fiberboard based on conifer resins for sound insulation. Evens out unevenness of the subfloor up to 4 mm. It is characterized by high thermal insulation, natural ventilation, vapor permeability. Effective damping of "shock" noises, dispersion of sounds, moisture resistance.	9 out of 10
The best extruded polystyrene substrates
1.	VTM, IsoPolin (Isopolin)	RUB 55 / m2	Best value for money	Material - polystyrene film. This rigid XPS backing sits in the middle between cork and polyethylene in terms of installation complexity and cost. Excellent sound insulation, minimal moisture absorption. Excellent thermal insulation properties at high humidity.	10 of 10
Best polyethylene substrates
1.	Tuplex	RUB 99 / m2	The most technological	An ultra-modern composite material consisting of expanded polystyrene granules between two layers of polyethylene of different thicknesses. Has excellent moisture and sound insulation properties. The membrane structure of the lower layer of Tuplex allows ventilation of the space under the laminate: moisture seeps in, and then is discharged under the skirting boards.	9 out of 10
2.	Izolon PPE	35 rubles / m2	The cheapest substrate	Heat-resistant fine-pored foam "cross-linked" PPE substrate. Exceeds NPE in all respects.	8 out of 10
3.	Foil Izolon PPE	RUB 56 / m2	Foil	Insulating substrate Izolon PPE with a 14 µm thick foil layer applied to one side.	7 out of 10

The best natural substrates

Let's clarify right away that the natural origin of the substrate in this case does not give any advantages in terms of ecology, since there will be a laminate on top of it, which, as you know, is an artificial material.

Cork underlay Premium Cork (Cork)
Rated 9 out of 10

Photo: vopros-remont.ru

Average price in RF: 90 rubles / m2, thickness 2 mm (145 rubles / m2 - 3 mm thick)

Advantages: One of the best substrates made in Portugal, Spain. A very high density means that both itself and the laminate joints are resistant to deformation under loads. Due to its high damping properties, the floor will not “play” over time. Due to its very low thermal conductivity, it is a good insulation material for floors over unheated rooms. Since it dampens noise well, it will be an excellent solution for children's playrooms. Can be used with high quality laminate flooring without requiring replacement for 25 years. Unlike the Chinese counterpart, it does not crumble, is good in installation and operation, and does not harm the laminate.

Flaws: High price. Noisy on poorly leveled ground. Best applied on wood floors, plywood, chipboard. Absorbs moisture, therefore requires concrete waterproofing and is not recommended for wet rooms and kitchens.

Typical reviews
“It is necessary to carefully remove the base under the cork! I ran into this ... "
“… It's hard to lay. When the roll ends, the cork strongly tends to backward, and there are fears that it, crumpled, will fall under the laminate. "

Parkolag
Rated 9 out of 10

Photo: strmnt.ru

Average price in RF: 95 rubles / m2, thickness 3 mm

Advantages: High noise absorption, wear resistance, very high moisture insulation make this ventilated substrate one of the best. Cork powder, which retains its elasticity, contributes to the long service life of the laminate, and bitumen prevents the penetration of moisture from the concrete screed. Air exchange prevents the formation of condensation, mildew, and mold. It retains its linear dimensions under a very significant pressure and when the temperature and humidity conditions change. A reliable substrate that will be an excellent solution for expensive brands of laminate and will serve without problems for many years.

Flaws: Cannot be used under a warm floor.

Reviews:
“Compared to technical cork, as a mixed version, it is more versatile and more wear-resistant. Wins in terms of a barrier to excess moisture. "
"As a substrate, I have always been sympathetic to Pargolag, about whom I heard a lot of tales, like bitumen does not smell like a child, etc. All this is nonsense."
“I bought a parkolag under the laminate. Fine! And there is no smell, and tiiiiiho ... "

Isoplat (Isoplaat startfloor barlinek)
Rated 9 out of 10

Photo: bug.ua

Average price in RF: 55 rubles / m2 (thickness 5 mm)

Advantages: Ideal underfloor heating due to its absolute safety when heated. Due to its porous structure, it has good noise and sound-absorbing, acoustic and heat-insulating properties, heat resistance. The special structure of the bottom layer allows air to circulate freely, providing ventilation properties. In addition, thanks to the antiseptic impregnation, it is protected from mold and mildew. In terms of elasticity, thermal conductivity, compression resistance, sound absorption, durability and naturalness, it is akin to cork. As for thermal insulation, due to the thickness of Isoplat it is 3 times higher and is comparable to soft insulation.
Flaws: Slabs of lesser thickness are not produced.
Reviews:
“I have a 5 mm isoplaat underneath 33 laminates. Elastic, warm to the touch, dampens noise well. With two small children, the neighbors from below simply do not hear us (their opinion). "

The best extruded polystyrene foam substrates

VTM, IsoPolin (Isopolin)
Ranked 10 out of 10

Photo: skill-spb.ru

Average price in RF: 55 rubles / m2 (thickness 3 mm)

Advantages: Stable underlay for laminate floors, making even diagonal laminate installation comfortable. Due to the closed moisture-proof pores, it is an ideal waterproofing. Optimally matched density is expressed in a sufficiently high resistance to external pressure and at the same time the absence of strong rigidity. The latter quality compensates for unevenness in the floor up to 3 mm and contributes to the strengthening of sound insulation: the absorption rate of impact noise approaches the cork. Technical characteristics are similar to Isoplat plates. Mechanical pressure does not have a destructive effect on the structure, therefore, their high heat and sound insulating properties of the VTM and IsoPolin substrates do not lose over time. Service life over 10 years.

Flaws: Not suitable for high traffic and high traffic areas (dance halls, fitness clubs, etc.). Not suitable for warm floors.

Reviews:
"The properties of installation and resistance to subsidence of XPS-substrate and Izoplat are almost the same."
"As a builder, I will say: it is pleasant and simple to work with him, many customers require just such a substrate."
"In the Olympic Village ... there is a huge demand for this substrate among understanding people."

Best polyethylene substrates

Tuplex
Rated 9 out of 10

Photo: ekopol.kiev.ua

Average price in RF: 99 rubles / m2 (thickness 3 mm)

Advantages: The Tuplex underlay adjusts to the shape of the substrate, smoothing out minor imperfections. Perfectly absorbs impact noise, drowning out the clatter of heels. This quality allows Tuplex to be recommended for both residential and office environments. Due to low compression (14 times less compared to foamed polyethylene) it retains its shape well and prevents the laminate from sagging. The unique structure of the material allows moisture to be removed naturally, but this advantage is reduced to zero in the presence of a waterproofing film. Suitable for warm floors.

Flaws: Heating efficiency from underfloor heating is lower compared to traditional heat transfer underlays due to the dissipation of part of the air.

Reviews:
“The best ... I've worked with is Tuplex. Very easy to install. "
“I heard complaints about him. The main idea: polystyrene foam balls deform over time ... Maybe this is not so, but it makes sense to think. "
“… I tried to compress it - it is not restored. Although the annotation says something else. "

Izolon PPE
Ranked 8 out of 10

Photo: www.web4market.biz

Average price in RF: 35 rubles / m2 (2 mm)

Dignity: Good heat and noise-absorbing parameters of "cross-linked" closed-cell polyethylene, its environmental friendliness, elasticity and elasticity, increased moisture resistance and hydrophobicity, inertness to "chemistry", bacteria and relative cheapness make the Izolon PPE substrate (not to be confused with Izolon NPE!) preferred for use in residential and public areas. These qualities can be retained by Izolon PPE for a long time under any operating conditions. Does not deform under load, does not burn and does not emit toxic substances. Over time, it does not collapse, does not lose stability and strength, unlike gas-filled polyethylene Izolon NPE, Penofol, Polyizol, etc. Service life under normal conditions is more than 25 years. The optimal solution for underfloor heating.

Flaws: Despite the good thermal insulation performance, you should not rely on floor thermal insulation with a material thickness of 2-4 mm.

Reviews:
"If we take Izolon, then the PPE is white with very dense small bubbles, but not our IPE!"
"Compared to stopper at Izolon, compression and recovery are much worse."

Foil Izolon PPE
Rated 6 out of 10

Photo: www.dom-laminata.ru

Average price in RF: 56 rubles / m2

Dignity: In addition to the advantages of Izolon PPE, the foil layer, which is a reflective insulation, enhances heat and vapor insulation properties, and provides a 97% reduction in heat loss. Important: the higher the temperature difference between the subfloor and the room, the higher the efficiency of foil thermal insulation. Foil-clad Izolon PPE is useful for the first floor with a concrete floor, for an apartment on the fourth floor there will be no gain in temperature. But as a heater, it is perfectly combined with an infrared warm floor.

Reviews:
“In order for the foil to have a tangible effect on heat reflection, the temperature should be. around 60 ° C. Therefore, the foil on the foam ... a good marketing ploy ... ".
"... living in a cellophane bag requires constant ventilation."

What is the best substrate to buy?

Even professionals often have a diametrically opposite attitude to the same group of materials, and more often than not they are poorly reasoned. Our rating of the best substrates does not give an unequivocal answer to this question - the choice is yours. Examine the characteristics of the material and choose the one that best suits the tasks, the degree of evenness of the base and your financial capabilities. At the same time, keep in mind that thicker does not mean better, the thickness of the substrate should not exceed 3-4 mm, unless a larger one is allowed by the manufacturer of the laminate.