If you’re planning a flooring DIY or a professional upgrade in the Reno-Sparks area, you’ve likely asked yourself: Does laminate flooring need underlayment?
It’s one of the most common questions we get at Frankful Flooring LLC, and for good reason. The layer sitting under your floor is just as important as the beautiful planks on top.
As your local flooring experts, we want to make sure your investment lasts. Whether you’re overlooking the lake in Incline Village or living in a bustling neighborhood in Carson City, here is everything you need to know about what goes beneath your boards.
Do All Laminate Floors Need Underlayment?
The short answer is yes—but with a catch. Every laminate floor requires a foundational layer to perform correctly, but not every project requires you to buy a separate roll of padding.
Many modern, high-end laminates (like the ones we carry from top brands) come with pre-attached underlayment.
If your planks already have a foam or cork backing glued to the bottom, you usually do not need to add a second layer. In fact, adding an extra layer of padding when it’s not required can make the floor too "squishy," which can actually break the locking joints over time.
Why Underlayment is Non-Negotiable
If your chosen flooring doesn't have a pre-attached pad, you absolutely must install a separate underlayment. Here’s why:
Smoothing Out Imperfections: Even the best-poured subfloors in Verdi aren't perfectly level. Underlayment helps "bridge" minor dips and peaks.
Sound Dampening: Without padding, laminate can sound hollow or "clicky" when walked on. Underlayment absorbs the sound of footsteps and falling objects.
Moisture Protection: In Northern Nevada, we deal with varying soil moisture. A proper underlayment often acts as a vapor barrier, protecting your planks from rising dampness that could cause warping.
Thermal Insulation: It adds a slight layer of insulation, helping keep your home a bit warmer during those chilly High Sierra winters.
Talk to the Install & Laminate Experts with Frankful Flooring LLC
Choosing the right foundation is just as critical as choosing the right color. Whether your laminate requires a separate roll of high-performance padding or comes with a built-in solution, the team at Frankful Flooring LLC is here to ensure the job is done right.
As a BBB Accredited, family-owned business, we don't just sell you a product; we provide the expertise needed for a lifetime of beautiful floors.
From Sparks to Incline Village, we’re ready to help you navigate the technical details so you can focus on the design.
Call Frankful Flooring LLC today for your free estimate and expert advice!
Visit Our Sparks, NV Showroom
Address: 100 East Glendale Avenue Sparks, NV 89431
Phone: (775) 383-6080
Your Underlayment Essentials Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does laminate need underlayment if I’m installing over concrete?
Yes, absolutely. Concrete is porous and can hold moisture. If you are installing laminate in a basement or on a ground-level slab in Reno, you need an underlayment that specifically includes a 6-mil poly vapor barrier to prevent moisture from reaching your floor.
Q: Can I use carpet padding as a substitute for laminate underlayment?
No! We strongly advise against this. Carpet padding is far too thick and soft. Laminate requires a thin, dense, and firm support system. Using carpet padding will cause the floor to flex too much, which will eventually snap the tongues and grooves of your planks, voiding your warranty.
Q: Does laminate flooring need underlayment if the subfloor is wood?
Yes. While moisture is less of a concern on a wooden subfloor compared to concrete, you still need the underlayment for sound reduction and to provide a smooth "floating" surface that allows the laminate to expand and contract naturally.
