Do solid timber floors need underlay?
Yes, like any other floor underlay performs some important functions:- Insulation from external noise and heat
- Provides a moisture barrier to recede the dampness/moisture from reaching the floor boards
- Covers up minor imperfections
- Reduce the noise generated by foot-traffic
- Required to cover manufacturer’s warranty
Should the subfloor be perfectly flat for installation?
For subfloors with variations less than 1-2mm this can be overlooked but anything higher would need a floor-prep. If the subfloor has rough surface like concrete exposed it is recommended to prep the floor to improve its standard. This can improve the life span of any flooring.What is the difference between solid timber, engineered timber and laminate flooring?

Engineered Timber | Solid Timber | Laminate |
---|---|---|
Only wear layer is genuine timber and other layers are processed timber | Entire plank is solid timber | It is completely processed timberwith a photographic layer on top |
It can be sanded and polished few times depending on wear layer | It can be sanded and polished multiple times | It cannot be sanded or polished |
Moderately expensive | Most expensive | Least expensive |