What is the best underlayment for laminate flooring?

The best underlayment for laminate flooring is typically foam or cork, with foam being the most popular choice for Ottawa homeowners due to its excellent moisture protection and sound dampening properties at an affordable price point.

Foam underlayment is the gold standard for most laminate installations in Ottawa homes. It provides superior moisture protection (crucial in our climate with basement humidity and seasonal temperature swaps), excellent sound absorption, and helps level minor subfloor imperfections. Quality foam underlayment costs $0.50-$1.50 per square foot and includes a built-in vapor barrier, which is essential for basement installations or homes with concrete subfloors.

Cork underlayment offers premium performance with natural antimicrobial properties and superior sound dampening - particularly valuable in Ottawa's many multi-level homes and condos. Cork costs $1.50-$3.00 per square foot but provides the best thermal insulation and is environmentally friendly. It's especially recommended for upper floors in older Ottawa homes where noise transmission between levels is a concern.

Rubber underlayment works well for high-traffic areas and provides excellent cushioning, though it's typically the most expensive option at $2.00-$4.00 per square foot. Some laminate manufacturers specifically recommend rubber for their premium products.

Ottawa-specific considerations include our significant temperature fluctuations and humidity changes between seasons. Choose underlayment with a moisture rating suitable for your installation area - basements and main floors over concrete require vapor barriers. In older Ottawa homes (common in areas like the Glebe or Centretown), slight subfloor irregularities make quality underlayment even more important for preventing squeaks and gaps.

Professional guidance suggests avoiding cheap plastic sheeting or newspaper - these don't provide adequate moisture protection or sound dampening. If your laminate already has attached underlayment, you typically don't need additional padding, though a thin vapor barrier may still be required over concrete.

Next steps: Measure your space, check your laminate manufacturer's recommendations, and ensure your chosen underlayment matches your subfloor type. Most Ottawa flooring suppliers carry quality foam options from brands like Roberts or MP Global that perform well in our climate.