Underlayment

11-03-2009, 10:48 PM	#1
dcf1999 Newbie   Join Date: Nov 2009 Posts: 2	Underlayment I need to install underlayment. It will be 1/4 thick over the subfloor to provide a smooth surface. One room will be vinyl "sticky" tiles while the other will be carpet. The "big box" store I go to (Menards) has several 1/4 types. Which would be the best? The plywood they have marked as underlayment and has x's all over it to mark where to fasten it, is $20 a sheet and it says it's used specifically for underlayment. Then there is maple veneer plywood for $15 a sheet. It's sanded smooth on the maple side. I'm not sure why it's cheaper though. I would think it would be more. Would that work as a good underlayment? Lastly, you have Luan (if I spelled it right). I've read a bunch of websites that say it's good to use, and others say to stay away from it. I think that’s $10 a sheet. All sheets are 4x8. Also, do you recommend stapling, nailing, or screwing the underlayment down? Thanks for your help! Dave

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11-04-2009, 06:55 AM	#2
poppameth Doer of Many Things     Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Staunton, VA Posts: 1,017	Underlayment Luan is okay but generally the bottom of the barrel. For what you are doing though, it's probably fine. I wouldn't expect most self stick tiles to be a long term investment anyway. The expensive stuff if usually a 5 layer birch and carries a warranty. It's all we use. __________________ Poppa Meth Entertainment

11-04-2009, 10:39 AM	#3
MI-Roger Member   Join Date: Aug 2009 Posts: 125	Underlayment Luan Staples (faster to install and MUCH easier to remove later) Only use in the room(s) to recieve the vinyl tiles Screw your sub-floor to the joists to eliminate current and prevent future squeaks

11-04-2009, 02:24 PM	#4
rusty baker Pro Flooring Installer     Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: SW Missouri Posts: 2,589	Underlayment Underlayment should be stapled. A 4"x4" pattern in the fields and every 2" on the seams. Luan is used as underlayment but certainly is not the best thing to use. Luan ususally has voids which can give underfoot. __________________ Armstrong Certified Retired Installer ANY PRODUCTS ADVERITISED IN MY POSTS ARE NOT ENDORSED BY ME!

11-04-2009, 11:26 PM	#5
dcf1999 Newbie   Join Date: Nov 2009 Posts: 2	Underlayment Thanks for all your help. I will use staples and have found Plywood underlayment for about $11 a sheet that I will be using.