Using roofing felt under laminate flooring is not recommended and not suitable for this purpose. Roofing felt, also known as roofing underlayment or tar paper, is designed to be used as an underlayment for roofing materials, not for flooring installations.
Laminate flooring requires a different type of underlayment that is specifically designed for use with laminate floors. The purpose of an underlayment for laminate flooring is to provide several important functions, including:
Moisture Barrier: An underlayment for laminate flooring helps to create a moisture barrier, preventing moisture from seeping up from the subfloor and potentially damaging the laminate planks.
Cushioning and Sound Reduction: Underlayment adds a layer of cushioning under the laminate flooring, which can make the floor more comfortable to walk on and help reduce noise, especially in multi-story buildings.
Smooth Surface: It provides a smooth and even surface for the laminate flooring to float on, helping to prevent any imperfections or irregularities in the subfloor from telegraphing through to the surface of the laminate.
Common types of underlayment used for laminate flooring include foam underlayment, cork underlayment, and combination underlayment (moisture barrier with cushioning). These materials are specifically designed to complement laminate flooring installations and provide the necessary features and benefits mentioned above.
Using roofing felt as an underlayment for laminate flooring may not offer the proper protection, support, or performance required for a successful and long-lasting laminate floor installation. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for underlayment materials when installing laminate flooring to ensure the best results.