I plan to use underlayment to make my engineered floor level with the tile installation. What brand and type of 1/4″ underlayment should be used under an engineered floor. What glue and fastener would be best for the underlayment install over the OSB? I have tack-up radiant heat.
Thanks
Replies
Two thoughts
First, find out what the engineered floor manufacturer recommends for underlayment. Second, make sure your fasteners aren't so long as to penetrate the subfloor and put holes in the radiant lines.
Underlayment
The factory floor rep would not recommend any specific brand. All he would recommend is 1/4" plywood. Thanks for the reminder on the radiant heat, Iam going to take that into account when choosing fasteners.
anthony
Usual 1/4" underlay type plywoods available cheaply (Luan), are usually 3/16's . The way it is.
You might find GOOD underlay made for under vinyl flooring-exterior glue and it's a full 1/4. Even has dots on the surface showing the nailing pattern for vinyl on top. Ain't cheap-but is GOOD.
I'd hesitate to use 1/4" masonite as if it gets wet or you don't gap it enough-It'll buckle and you don't want that.
Same goes with 1/4" mdf if you can find it. Ok till it expands or gets wet.
Try a sample of regular luan plywood (W/EXTERIOR GLUE). Along with your pad under the Lam Flooring, might be just fine. If you go with luan, I'd staple it (air nailer) but you're welcome to hand nail if you wish.
Rep, Schmep
Check the company's installation manual. Probably it's on line. The rep may or may not know his stuff, and if recommends something that's not in the manual, you might have warranty problems.