Can Roofing Felt be Used Under Laminate Flooring?

Have you ever wondered if those rolls of roofing felt tucked away in your garage could have a use beyond protecting your roof? It’s a common thought, especially when faced with a home renovation project. But can you use roofing felt as a moisture barrier under your laminate flooring? The answer, like many things in home improvement, is a little more complex than a simple yes or no.

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Laminate flooring, while durable and stylish, is vulnerable to moisture damage. This is where the role of a proper underlayment comes in. Its primary function is to insulate against temperature changes, provide a buffer against uneven subfloors, and most importantly, act as a moisture barrier, protecting your laminate flooring from water damage. So, can that seemingly ubiquitous roofing felt be the answer to this underlayment dilemma? Let’s dive into the details to find out.

Understanding Roofing Felt and Its Properties

Roofing felt, also known as tar paper, is a heavy-duty, asphalt-saturated paper used as a water-resistant layer under shingles. Its purpose is to help prevent water from infiltrating your roof and damaging your home’s structure. Here are some important aspects of roofing felt to keep in mind when considering its use under laminate flooring:

1. Permeability:

While roofing felt effectively prevents water from passing through it directly, it’s not completely impermeable. It can absorb water and allow moisture to permeate through it over time, especially when exposed to prolonged dampness. This means that using roofing felt as a moisture barrier underneath laminate flooring could actually lead to a damp environment that can damage your flooring.

2. Durability:

Roofing felt is designed for outdoor use and is susceptible to deterioration from prolonged exposure to sunlight and temperature fluctuations. These factors can cause it to become brittle, crack, and eventually disintegrate. This degradation can compromise its ability to function as a durable underlayment for your flooring.

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3. Odor:

Roofing felt is often treated with chemicals that can emit strong, unpleasant odors. These odors, while not necessarily harmful, can permeate into your home and negatively impact the indoor air quality. This is especially undesirable for interior spaces where you want to maintain a fresh, odor-free environment.

Why Roofing Felt Isn’t the Ideal Underlayment for Laminate Flooring

While seemingly economical, using roofing felt as an underlayment for laminate flooring is often a bad idea. Here’s why:

1. Moisture Concerns:

As mentioned, roofing felt is not completely impermeable to moisture. This means that any moisture that seeps through the subfloor, from spills, leaks, or even humidity, can be absorbed by the roofing felt. This absorbed moisture can create a damp environment under your flooring, leading to warping, buckling, and even mold growth. This can compromise your floor’s structural integrity and pose health risks.

2. Limited Cushioning:

Roofing felt offers little to no cushioning. This can result in a hard and noisy walking surface, especially if your subfloor is uneven. The lack of cushioning can also lead to rapid wear and tear on your laminate flooring, potentially shortening its lifespan.

3. Potential Odor Issues:

As discussed earlier, roofing felt often contains chemicals that can release unpleasant odors. This can interfere with the overall comfort and ambiance of your home. If you’re sensitive to odors, it’s best to avoid using roofing felt as an underlayment, as the odor can be persistent and potentially exacerbate allergy symptoms.

4. Aesthetic Concerns:

Roofing felt lacks the smooth, even surface that is desirable for underlayment. Its rough texture can create unevenness under your flooring, making it less comfortable to walk on and potentially affecting the aesthetics of your laminate floors.

Recommended Alternatives to Roofing Felt for Laminate Flooring Underlayment

When it comes to underlayment for laminate flooring, there are several superior alternatives to roofing felt that are specifically designed to provide optimal protection and performance. These include:

1. Foam Underlayments:

These are made of materials like polyethylene foam and offer excellent cushioning and moisture resistance. They are widely available in various thicknesses to suit different needs, and they are often more affordable than other options. Foam underlayments provide a comfortable walking surface and help to reduce noise from foot traffic.

2. Cork Underlayments:

Cork is a natural and highly sustainable material that provides excellent insulation, cushioning and a superior moisture barrier. It’s known for its ability to absorb noise, offering a quieter walking surface. Cork underlayment is also a good choice for people with allergies, as it is naturally hypoallergenic.

3. Vapor Barrier:

A vapor barrier is a thin film that is typically installed over the subfloor to prevent moisture from rising up from the crawl space or basement. It’s often combined with other underlayment options for maximum protection. When choosing a vapor barrier, ensure it’s vapor-resistant and compatible with the other underlayment materials you’re using.

Can Roofing Felt Be Used Under Laminate Flooring

Conclusion

While it might seem tempting to use readily available roofing felt as an underlayment for laminate flooring, it’s not a recommended practice. Its inherent permeability, limited cushioning, and potential odor issues make it unsuitable for long-term use in indoor settings. Instead, opt for specialized underlayment options like foam, cork, or vapor barriers, which are designed to provide superior moisture resistance, cushioning, and noise reduction, ultimately ensuring the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your laminate flooring.

Before starting your flooring project, remember to consult with a qualified flooring professional for expert advice on the appropriate underlayment for your specific needs and flooring type. They can guide you in selecting the best materials for a durable and aesthetically pleasing flooring installation. Remember, investing in quality underlayment is a crucial step towards ensuring your laminate flooring stays beautiful and functional for years to come.