Imagine this: You’re in the midst of a beautiful hardwood flooring installation, eagerly anticipating the sight of your new, polished floors. But then, a question arises – can you use roofing felt as a moisture barrier underneath your precious hardwood? It’s a tempting idea, especially if you’re working on a budget. Roofing felt seems sturdy, inexpensive, and readily available. However, this is a crucial decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. The answer, surprisingly, is much more complex than a simple yes or no. Diving into the world of flooring installation, we’ll uncover the truths, the myths, and the ultimately safe and sensible approach to laying down your hardwood floors.
Image: cinvex.us
The allure of roofing felt stems from its historical use as a moisture barrier in various construction projects. It’s often associated with roofing, where its ability to repel water is a valuable asset. But hardwood floors are a different story—they are susceptible to warping, cupping, and even rotting when exposed to excessive moisture. This is where the real debate begins. Is roofing felt the right choice or will it lead to unforeseen problems down the line?
Understanding the Challenge: The Real Enemy of Hardwood Flooring
The primary concern with hardwood flooring is moisture. Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts in response to changes in moisture levels. When hardwood flooring is exposed to excess moisture, it can lead to:
-
Cupping: The edges of the floorboards rise higher than the center, creating a concave shape.
-
Warping: The floorboards become uneven, twisting and bending out of shape.
-
Rotting: In extreme cases, continuous exposure to moisture can lead to the decomposition of wood, weakening the floor and potentially causing structural damage.
The Case Against Roofing Felt: Why It’s Not a Safe Choice
While roofing felt might appear as a low-cost solution for moisture control, it comes with a set of potential problems that can significantly affect the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your hardwood floor:
-
Moisture Trapping: Unlike proper moisture barrier materials, roofing felt isn’t designed to allow moisture vapor to escape. It forms a barrier that traps trapped moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Eventually, this trapped moisture will find its way to your hardwood floor, leading to damage.
-
Irregular Surface: The rough texture of roofing felt can create an uneven surface underneath your hardwood flooring. This unevenness can lead to inconsistencies in the floor’s appearance, making it feel bumpy and unstable.
-
Lack of Strength: Roofing felt, while strong against water, is not designed to withstand the weight and impact of foot traffic. It can tear or puncture easily, rendering its moisture barrier properties useless.
The Right Choice: Moisture Barriers Designed for Flooring
For a safe and reliable moisture barrier under hardwood flooring, the best choice is a product specifically designed for this purpose. These materials are typically made from strong, durable, and breathable materials that effectively prevent moisture from reaching the wood while allowing excess moisture vapor to escape.
-
Polyethylene vapor retarders: These are thin, plastic sheets that are highly effective at preventing moisture from penetrating the subfloor. They are affordable, easy to install, and readily available.
-
Polyurethane vapor retarders: These membranes are a bit more expensive than polyethylene but offer excellent strength and moisture resistance. They are also known for their tear resistance, which is crucial for preventing punctures and creating gaps in the moisture barrier.
-
Moisture-resistant underlayment: This type of underlayment comes in various materials, including foam, cork, and rubber. It provides a moisture barrier and additional cushioning under the flooring, reducing noise and improving comfort.
Image: homeguides.sfgate.com
A Step Further: Proper Installation for Optimal Protection
Choosing the right moisture barrier material is only the first step. Ensuring proper installation is crucial to maximize its effectiveness.
-
Overlap: Always overlap the seams of the moisture barrier material by at least 6 inches to prevent gaps and ensure full coverage.
-
Seal Joints: Use a sealant specifically designed for moisture barriers to seal all joints and prevent any potential leaks.
-
Ventilation: Make sure your subfloor is properly vented to allow moisture vapor to escape. This helps reduce the amount of moisture that can build up over time.
Expert Insight: The Importance of Professional Advice
Installing hardwood flooring is a significant investment, and it’s best to seek professional advice from a qualified flooring expert. A professional can evaluate your specific situation, recommend the most suitable moisture barrier material, and ensure that the installation is done correctly to protect your flooring from potential damage. They can also advise you on the best way to deal with any existing moisture problems in your subfloor.
Can Roofing Felt Be Used Under Hardwood Flooring
Conclusion: Think Long-Term for Beautiful, Durable Floors
While the idea of using roofing felt under hardwood flooring might seem appealing due to its cost-effectiveness, it’s important to remember that a flooring installation is a long-term investment. The seemingly minor risks associated with roofing felt can snowball into costly repairs later on. By choosing a properly designed moisture barrier and prioritizing professional installation, you’re setting yourself up for beautiful and durable hardwood floors that will stand the test of time. Remember, it’s always wiser to invest in quality materials and expert craftsmanship to ensure your project stands strong for years to come.
