Only Plastic Sheeting for Underlayment????

19 years ago

Hi,

I am ready to install engineered hardwood floating flooring in new construction. I have underfloor radiant heat with staple up application. My subfloor is Advantec 3/4 OSB. I have meticulously flatten the floor in every room using a belt sander.

Considering the cost for floormuffler underlayment is over $800 and the cost for 6mil plastic sheeting is about $150-200 is it really worth the added expense for floormuffler? If my floor is flat and I do not care about the noise in the basement what is wrong with using only plastic sheeting? I have looked at other less expensive underlayments and they do not match floormuffler. Does thin plastic sheeting induce floor bounciness if the floor is very flat? Any way to test a floor prior to installation? Thanks!

Featured Answer

jerry_t

19 years ago

Plastic sheeting is only used for concrete slab installs, it is a moisture barrier and does not replace the required underlayment padding. Don't use plastic over wood subfloors.

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Comments (9)

rychnc
Original Author
19 years ago
I would like a vapor barrier between the subfloor and hardwood floor.

So why can't I use just plastic sheeting? You did not give a reason. I assume you are a professional. If I add foam padding it will just make the floor more hollow sounding and add resistance to the radiant heat. Not sure I understand why it is necessary. The floor will "float" on the plastic.
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jerry_t
19 years ago
You never place a true moisture barrier between wood and wood. You can use a moisture "retarder" as long as its not roofing felt because of the radiant heat situation. No engineered manufacturer will not warrant a floating install without an underlayment. They usually recommend a closed cell foam or cork underlayment over radiant heat.

Bottom line is the underlayment is a requirement , not an option.

Read thru your installation guidelines again. :)
rychnc
Original Author
19 years ago
Thanks for a nice, polite response. You could easily say that I am someone who does not know what he is talking about (which is true!). I think I will buy a nail gun - it is less expensive than any underlayment plus I prefer a more natural feel for the floor
jerry_t
19 years ago
I do try to be polite rychnc. There are many tasks I have to perform on my own house instead of hiring it out.

What product are you using and whats the thickness of it?
Signlady
last year
The reason for not using plastic sheeting is bc it can sweat & trap moisture. The foam insulated underlayment comes in strips that allows a little breathing. As for a 'hollow' sound - the foam that is attached to the thin plastic underlayment material helps provide cushion & prevents the hollow sound you're concerned about

The reason for not using plastic sheeting is bc it can sweat & trap moisture. The foam insulated underlayment comes in strips that allows a little breathing. As for a 'hollow' sound -
Signlady
last year
last modified: last year
The foam takes care of the hollow sound. (having typing glitches here for some reason)
millworkman
last year
Signlady how or why did you drag up a 17 year old post on this topic?
Signlady
last year
lol - I dunno. I'm working on my house, doing everything - I didn't even pay attention to the dates. Besides anyone might use a tip anytime of any