Underlay materials

The correct base layer is crucial when laying floor coverings. This is why we recommend that an underlay mat is used. If this is not used and therefore the specifications for the base for the floor are not fulfilled, the guarantee will be invalidated. The following values are crucial here:

DL: SPECIFICATIONS FOR DYNAMIC STRESS

Dynamic stress (DL) is created when people walk around in a room and also when chairs are used. In such cases, the underlay must be able to withstand short-term loads without changing its properties in the long term. This ability is expressed by the DL value. The higher the DL value, the longer the underlay will withstand dynamic demands. A DL value of 10,000 cycles is recommended. For increased stress, the DL value should be at least 100,000 cycles.

CS, CC AND PC: SPECIFICATIONS FOR STATIC STRESS

The CS and CC values define the requirements for static loading. This is created when the floor covering is permanently loaded by fixed, heavy furniture. The underlay should be able to withstand very high static loads without giving way an excessive amount. A high CS value is important to maximise the service life of the click connections. The underlay must not give too much so that the floor covering is protected from deformation and damage due to vertical movement. The minimum requirement is a CS value of 500 kPa. This means that the higher the CS value, the better the pro tection against this damage. In terms of longterm exposure, the CC value is an important factor. Heavy pieces of furniture that are in a permanent location on the floor subject the floor to constant stress. The CC value is used to evaluate how the underlay behaves over a load period of 10 years. For increased requirements, the CC value should be at least 20 kPa. In addition, the underlay mat should not exceed a point levelling capacity (PC) of up to 0.5 mm at a thickness of 1.5 mm.

WHY ARE UNDERLAYS NEEDED WHEN LAYING FLOORING?

An underlay only makes sense if it also contributes to the quality of the flooring system. The underlay represents the connection of the floor to the base layer and must therefore meet certain requirements. Most importantly, this includes clearing up any unevenness in the base layer. The floor is protected from everyday wear and tear and also from residual moisture. In addition to footstep soundproofing and walking comfort, thermal insulation is also an important factor.

WE RECOMMEND THE DB COVER UNDERLAY MAT WHEN LAYING OUR FLOORING:

An outstanding feature of the elastic footstep soundproofing underlay is the unique reduction in the walking noise from footsteps. The DB Cover is produced using state-of-the-art technology from recyclable and renewable raw materials and is the ideal insulating underlay for designer flooring. The compressive strength of the DB Cover underlay mat is particularly remarkable. Its CS value of 1677 kPa is significantly higher than conventional underlay mats. It is easy to handle and install. The underlay mat is a winner twice over thanks to its long service life and its maintenance-free design. The icing in the cake is the fact that these advantages are complemented by its excellent value for money. With designer flooring the insulation underlay is laid with the white textile side facing upwards.