Paper Under Hardwood Needed? (1 Hidden Danger!)

Do you remember that feeling?

The one you got walking into your grandma’s house?

For me, it was the sound.

The click-clack of my shoes on her gleaming hardwood floors.

Sunlight streaming through the windows, dancing off the polished surface.

It felt like home.

That’s where my love affair with hardwood began.

From DIY disasters to showroom stunners, I’ve learned a thing or two.

Today, let’s talk about something that’s often overlooked: underlayment.

Specifically, that seemingly innocent layer of paper some folks put under hardwood.

Sounds harmless, right?

Well, buckle up, because there’s a hidden danger lurking beneath the surface that could cost you big time!

1. Understanding Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring.

It’s a classic for a reason.

It adds warmth, elegance, and value to any home.

It’s no wonder it’s a top choice for homeowners.

But what exactly is hardwood flooring?

Simply put, it’s flooring made from a single piece of solid wood.

Think oak, maple, cherry, walnut – the real deal!

Why is it so popular?

• Aesthetics: It looks amazing! The natural grain and rich colors can transform any room.
• Durability: With proper care, hardwood can last for generations.
• Value: It increases the resale value of your home.
• Timelessness: It never goes out of style!

Now, you’ve probably heard about different types of hardwood.

Solid Hardwood is what I described above.

One piece of wood, plain and simple.

Engineered Hardwood is made of multiple layers of wood veneer glued together.

It’s more stable than solid hardwood, especially in areas with high humidity.

Installation Methods

How the floor is installed matters!

• Nail-Down: This is the traditional method, where the wood is nailed directly to the subfloor.
• Glue-Down: As the name suggests, the wood is glued to the subfloor.
• Floating: The planks are connected to each other, but not to the subfloor, creating a “floating” floor.

These methods are important to know when talking about underlayment.

2. The Role of Underlayments in Hardwood Flooring

Okay, so we know about hardwood.

But what about that layer underneath?

That’s the underlayment, and it plays a crucial role.

Think of it as a cushion between the hardwood and the subfloor.

What does it do?

• Sound Insulation: It helps to dampen noise, making your home quieter.
• Moisture Resistance: It provides a barrier against moisture from the subfloor.
• Thermal Comfort: It can add a layer of insulation, keeping your floors warmer.
• Smooths Imperfections: It can help even out minor imperfections in the subfloor.

There are several types of underlayments available:

• Foam: Affordable and provides good sound insulation.
• Cork: Natural, eco-friendly, and offers excellent sound and thermal insulation.
• Rubber: Durable and provides superior sound dampening.
• Felt: Offers good cushioning and sound absorption.

The best choice depends on your specific needs and the type of hardwood you’re installing.

3. Introducing Paper Under Hardwood Flooring

Now, let’s zoom in on our culprit: paper underlayment.

Yes, plain old paper.

Sometimes it’s called builder’s paper, rosin paper, or kraft paper.

It’s typically a thin, brown paper that comes in rolls.

What’s it used for?

Traditionally, paper underlayment was used to:

• Reduce squeaking: It creates a slip sheet between the hardwood and the subfloor, preventing friction that can cause squeaks.
• Act as a vapor retarder: It provides a minimal barrier against moisture.
• Protect the finish: It prevents dust and debris from the subfloor from scratching the underside of the hardwood.

How is it different?

Unlike foam, cork, or rubber, paper doesn’t offer much in the way of sound insulation or cushioning.

It’s also not very effective at blocking moisture.

It’s primarily used for its slip-sheet properties.

How does it work?

The paper is rolled out over the subfloor before the hardwood is installed.

It creates a smooth surface that allows the hardwood to move slightly without rubbing against the subfloor.

This movement reduces friction and prevents those annoying squeaks.

4. The Hidden Danger of Using Paper Under Hardwood

Alright, here’s where things get serious.

While paper underlayment might seem like a simple solution, it comes with a significant risk: moisture retention.

Think about it.

Paper is absorbent.

When moisture gets trapped between the hardwood and the subfloor, the paper acts like a sponge, holding onto that moisture.

What happens then?

• Mold and Mildew Growth: Damp paper is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can damage your hardwood and create unhealthy air quality.
• Wood Rot: Excessive moisture can cause the hardwood to rot, weakening the floor and leading to costly repairs.
• Buckling and Warping: Moisture can cause the hardwood to expand and contract, leading to buckling, warping, and cupping.
• Adhesive Failure: If you’re using a glue-down installation, moisture can weaken the adhesive, causing the hardwood to come loose.

I’ve seen it happen firsthand.

A homeowner in Minneapolis used paper underlayment in their basement, thinking it would save them money.

Big mistake!

The basement had a slight moisture problem, and the paper trapped that moisture against the hardwood.

Within a few months, the floors started buckling, and the smell of mold was unbearable.

They ended up having to replace the entire floor, costing them thousands of dollars.

Here’s a table showing the effects of moisture on different types of wood flooring:

Real-Life Examples

I’ve seen this scenario play out time and time again.

Homes near the coast, where humidity is high, are particularly vulnerable.

So are basements, which are prone to moisture issues.

Even seemingly dry climates can experience seasonal humidity changes that can cause problems.

The key takeaway?

Paper underlayment can be a risky choice, especially in moisture-prone environments.

5. The Importance of Proper Installation and Maintenance

Okay, so paper underlayment has its risks.

But what if you’re set on using it?

Can you mitigate the dangers?

The answer is yes, but it requires meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to best practices.

Proper Installation

• Acclimatization: This is crucial! Allow the hardwood to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for several days before installation. This prevents excessive expansion or contraction after installation.
• Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any imperfections can create pockets where moisture can accumulate.
• Moisture Testing: Test the moisture content of both the hardwood and the subfloor before installation. They should be within acceptable ranges.
• Vapor Barrier: Consider using a separate vapor barrier underneath the paper underlayment, especially in moisture-prone areas.

Environmental Controls

• Humidity Control: Use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity level in your home within the recommended range (typically 30-50%).
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in your home to prevent moisture buildup.
• Avoid Water Spills: Clean up spills immediately to prevent water from seeping into the floor.

Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris that can scratch the finish.
• Use Proper Cleaning Products: Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive water when cleaning. Use a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood floors.
• Protect Against Scratches: Use furniture pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
• Re-Coat the Finish: Over time, the finish on your hardwood will wear down. Re-coating the finish every few years can protect the wood and extend its lifespan.

Even with these precautions, I still hesitate to recommend paper underlayment, especially when there are better alternatives available.

6. Alternatives to Paper Underlayment

So, what are the alternatives?

If you’re concerned about moisture or want better sound insulation, there are plenty of options:

• Foam Underlayment: This is a popular and affordable choice. It provides good sound insulation and cushioning. Look for foam underlayments with a built-in vapor barrier.
• Cork Underlayment: Cork is a natural, sustainable material that offers excellent sound and thermal insulation. It’s also naturally resistant to mold and mildew.
• Rubber Underlayment: Rubber underlayment is the most expensive option, but it provides the best sound dampening. It’s also very durable and resistant to moisture.
• Felt Underlayment: Felt provides good cushioning and sound absorption. It’s a good option for reducing noise from foot traffic.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick comparison:

Flooring Environment

The best choice also depends on the flooring environment.

• Basements: Opt for a moisture- resistant underlayment like rubber or a foam underlayment with a built-in vapor barrier.
• Kitchens: Choose a water-resistant underlayment like rubber or cork, as kitchens are prone to spills.
• Upstairs Bedrooms: Focus on sound insulation. Foam, cork, or felt underlayment can help reduce noise transmission.

Cost Comparison

Here’s a quick overview of the average cost per square foot for different types of underlayment:

• Paper: $0.10 – $0.20
• Foam: $0.30 – $0.50
• Cork: $0.80 – $1.50
• Rubber: $1.50 – $3.00
• Felt: $0.50 – $1.00

While paper underlayment might seem like the cheapest option upfront, the potential costs of moisture damage far outweigh the savings.

7. Expert Opinions and Industry Standards

Don’t just take my word for it!

I spoke with several flooring experts to get their take on paper underlayment.

What the Experts Say

“I never recommend paper underlayment,” says Mark Johnson, a certified flooring inspector with 20 years of experience.

“It’s simply not worth the risk. There are so many better options available that provide superior moisture protection and sound insulation.”

Sarah Miller, a flooring contractor in Chicago, agrees.

“We used to use paper underlayment years ago, but we stopped after seeing too many moisture-related problems. Now we only use foam or cork underlayment, depending on the client’s needs and budget.”

Industry Standards

The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) is the leading authority on wood flooring installation.

Their guidelines recommend using a vapor retarder with a perm rating of 0.7 to 1.5 when installing hardwood flooring over a concrete subfloor.

Paper underlayment typically doesn’t meet these requirements.

Evolving Technologies

The flooring industry is constantly evolving.

New materials and technologies are emerging all the time.

For example, some manufacturers are now offering engineered hardwood with a built-in underlayment layer.

This simplifies the installation process and ensures that the underlayment is properly matched to the flooring.

8. Conclusion

So, there you have it.

The truth about paper under hardwood.

While it might seem like a harmless and affordable option, the hidden danger of moisture retention makes it a risky choice.

Remember that story about my Grandma’s house?

Those floors lasted for decades!

That’s because they were installed with care and attention to detail.

Do your research.

Ask questions.

Choose the right underlayment for your specific environment.

And most importantly, prioritize proper installation and maintenance.

Your floors will thank you for it!

Don’t let a seemingly small decision like underlayment ruin your beautiful hardwood floors.

Choose wisely, and enjoy your floors for years to come!

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