ᐅ Install PE film under the cork?

Created on: 9 Mar 2013 21:47
R
regnat
R
regnat
9 Mar 2013 21:47
Hello,

I want to install a click cork floor. I have read that when installing over underfloor heating, you first lay a PE foil and then the cork. Is this really necessary, and if so, what is the reason for it?

Regards, regnat
Der Da9 Mar 2013 23:59
We installed the same flooring last weekend (100 m² (1,076 sq ft)).

You need the membrane underneath to prevent rising residual moisture. Your cork flooring is probably sealed from the top but not from the bottom. You will lose the entire warranty if you install it without the membrane. That’s what I’ve seen in every installation guide so far.

By the way, the membrane should not be glued... and in a basement, I would definitely wait long enough before installation, otherwise you will have moisture trapped under the membrane.
We had a CM measurement done two days before installation, and the residual moisture was 0.2%. So it was safe... according to the manufacturer, our cork can be installed from 0.5% residual moisture.

The membrane also had a positive aspect: the cork slides better on it, and it’s less messy than installing directly on the bare screed.

I hope this helps.