Laminate underlay

[DeliaHodgkis]

Hi I am going to lay laminate flooring in the living room. The surface is thin black tiles which have been layed over concrete - the floor is level. I have been to homebase and was advised to buy fibreboard instead of the silver backed polystyrene.The fibre board was �70 for 24 sq metres. Does anyone know if I should be using the fibre board underlay or if the silver backed polystyrene would have been better?

[Clanad]

If the tiles are sound, you shouldn't have to do anything other than lay the recommended backing for the laminate.  It somes in 2 types, at least here in U.S.  I would consider putting down the blue polystyrene roll up material.  It's primary purpose is to deaden sound of walking on this type of floor.  If the tiles are loose, I would recommend using a tile adhesive and attaching them. Good luck!...

[ade33uk]

the fibreboard would not be suitable for concrete floor as its needs a moisture barrier aswell   go with the silver backed polystyrene and tape the joints .  if you use the fibreboards use a sheet of damp proof membrane aswell hope this helps

[DeliaHodgkis]

Thank you to both people who replied - I thought the fibreboard wasn't right.  I'll stick the loose tiles down and buy the silver backed polystyrene.  Sometimes the advice you get at the DIY shop is just totally wrong.  Thanks again.

I have realised there is a part of the floor infront of the fire that doesn't have tiles on  -what would either of you recommend to level this to the same level as the tiles - it's only a matter of 2mm?

Thanks

[Clanad]

If you could purchase some tiles the same thickness as the existing ones, I'd do so and glue them down, just for evenness sake.  It probably is not absolutely neccessary, but over a period of time walking on that area or moving furniture over it make cause a crease to appear where the existing tile ends... (sorry for the tardniness of this reply)

[DeliaHodgkis]

Thanks

I'll see if I can find some tiles of the same thickness - but I think I will need some self levelling compound or filler for other parts of the floor - mainly around the edges before laying the laminate - it makes you wonder if its all worth it!!!