Best Materials Used in Parquet Installation

The Importance of Parquet Installation and the Role of Quality Materials

Installing parquet flooring is one of the most effective ways to enhance both aesthetics and comfort in living spaces. However, parquet is not merely a decorative choice; the quality of the materials used directly determines its durability. Poor-quality underlayment, missing moisture barriers, or low-grade adhesives can quickly cause squeaking, swelling, or even floor deformation. For this reason, it is essential to have comprehensive knowledge about the materials to be used during the parquet installation process.

At Acarkon, we have gathered the most frequently asked questions about parquet installation materials, tips for correct product selection, and professional recommendations for long-lasting parquet flooring in this guide.

Subfloor Preparation: The First and Most Important Step

The most critical stage of parquet installation is preparing the subfloor correctly. The smoother, drier, and cleaner the subfloor is, the more efficiently parquet installation materials will perform. Even the best parquet underlay, the most durable moisture barrier, or the highest-quality laminate flooring will not deliver the expected performance if subfloor preparation is neglected.

Importance of Subfloor Inspection

Before beginning parquet installation, the structural condition of the subfloor must be inspected. Is the floor uneven, wavy, or cracked? Are there hollow sections? If undulations are present, self-leveling compound should be used to smooth the surface and make it completely even. Even minor height differences can eventually lead to squeaking, gaps at joints, and damage to the locking system.

Moisture Measurement and Humidity Control

Another critical stage is measuring the moisture content of the subfloor. Moisture is the greatest risk factor during parquet installation. Concrete floors, especially after construction, can retain moisture for a long time. For this reason, the floor’s humidity should always be checked with moisture meters. High humidity can cause parquet swelling, laminate surface expansion, and even rotting of natural wood flooring. If high moisture is detected, the floor should be allowed to dry, or professional dehumidification methods should be applied.

Cleaning and Dust Removal

Another often-overlooked step in subfloor preparation is cleaning. Dust, dirt, oil stains, or construction residues can be trapped directly under the parquet. This prevents the underlayment from performing at full capacity and can cause parquet planks to fail to settle properly. For this reason, the subfloor must be thoroughly vacuumed before installation, and if necessary, industrial vacuum cleaners should be used for deep cleaning.

Preparation by Floor Type

Each type of subfloor requires different preparation steps:

1. Concrete Subfloors: Use of a moisture barrier and aluminum underlayment is mandatory.
2. Wooden Subfloors: Old flooring should be removed, uneven areas leveled, and loose boards secured.
3. Ceramic or Marble Surfaces: Grout gaps must be filled, and the surface smoothed.

Choosing Underlayment and Moisture Barrier

Once subfloor preparation is complete, the right underlayment and moisture barrier must be chosen. For concrete, aluminum underlayment is essential, while for wooden floors, cork underlayment with strong sound insulation is recommended. Proper subfloor preparation provides a solid base for parquet installation materials and ensures long-lasting use.

Acarkon Tip

Before beginning installation, the subfloor should not only be inspected visually but also checked with a spirit level. Even slight slopes can cause problems during installation. In addition, room temperature and humidity must be at suitable levels before laying parquet. If conditions are not ideal, parquet planks may expand or contract after installation.

Types of Parquet Underlayment

Among parquet sub-materials, underlayment is one of the most important. Underlayment eliminates small imperfections in the subfloor, provides sound insulation, offers thermal insulation, and helps control moisture.

1. Foam Underlayment: The most widely used type. Affordable, easy to apply, and suitable for even subfloors.
2. Cork Underlayment: Excellent for sound insulation. Significantly reduces noise transfer in apartment buildings.
3. Aluminum Underlayment: Functions as a moisture barrier and is ideal for concrete subfloors. Also provides thermal insulation.
4. XPS Underlayment: Thanks to its high density, it is durable against impacts and supports the parquet locking system.
5. EVA Underlayment: A modern option, superior in both sound and moisture control.

The choice of underlayment must always be based on the type of subfloor and the specific parquet product being used.

Moisture Barrier: A Protective Shield for Parquet

One of the most neglected materials during parquet installation is the moisture barrier. Installing parquet directly on concrete without protection leads to swelling and deterioration within a short period. Aluminum foil underlayments or specially designed moisture membranes protect parquet from humidity. Without a moisture barrier, parquet installation will inevitably fail in the long run.

Parquet Types and Material Compatibility

The right choice of parquet must align with the sub-materials used.

1. Solid Wood Parquet: Natural and durable, but highly sensitive to humidity.
2. Engineered Wood Parquet: Its layered structure resists temperature and humidity fluctuations, making it ideal for concrete subfloors.
3. Laminate Parquet: Affordable, easy to install, and available in many designs. It is the most commonly used among parquet installation materials.
4. Bamboo Parquet: Eco-friendly, strong, and long-lasting. Increasingly popular in modern interiors.
5. Vinyl Flooring: Water-resistant and suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces.

Parquet Adhesives and Installation Materials

Click-lock parquet generally does not require adhesives, but adhesives are essential for solid wood parquet and some engineered flooring. In addition, small but critical tools are required for a professional result:

1. Spacers: Leave expansion gaps between parquet and walls.
2. Tapping Block: Ensures planks interlock without damage.
3. Pull Bar: Helps tighten parquet in areas close to walls.

Tools for Parquet Installation

As important as the materials are, the tools used in installation also determine the quality of the work. Measuring tools, power saws, hammers, squares, pencils, and spirit levels are indispensable. Professional installers often use dedicated installation kits, which speed up the process and minimize mistakes.

Common Mistakes in Parquet Installation

Even when correct materials are chosen, mistakes are often made during installation:

1. Failing to use a moisture barrier,
2. Choosing the wrong underlayment thickness,
3. Not leaving expansion gaps,
4. Incomplete subfloor preparation.

These mistakes frequently cause parquet swelling and deformation. To avoid them, professional material selection, thorough pre-installation checks, and proper tools must always be used.

Accessories Used in Parquet Installation

Parquet installation is not limited to flooring alone; accessories also play a critical role in aesthetics and durability. Skirting boards cover the gap between parquet and walls, providing a clean look while protecting the lower part of the wall from impacts. Transition profiles ensure a smooth connection between different floor types and create visual harmony, especially at door thresholds. Edge bands and corner profiles fill gaps at edges, giving the installation a professional finish.

Post-Installation Care Materials

Once parquet installation is complete, proper maintenance is essential for long-lasting performance. Special parquet cleaning products remove dirt without damaging the surface. Harsh chemicals should be avoided; instead, solutions formulated for wood and laminate should be used. To preserve shine and protective coating, parquet polishes can be applied at regular intervals. These care materials prevent scratches, dullness, and premature wear, ensuring the effort spent on installation pays off for many years.

Eco-Friendly Parquet Materials

In recent years, sustainable parquet materials have come to the forefront. FSC-certified wood, adhesives with low formaldehyde content, and recyclable underlayment are healthier and more eco-friendly solutions. Bamboo parquet and cork underlayment are particularly popular as durable and environmentally safe options.

Professional Tips

1. Keep all parquet materials in the room for 48 hours before installation for acclimatization.
2. Always check room temperature and humidity.
3. Do not mix laminate parquet with solid wood materials.
4. For underfloor heating, always use suitable underlayment and adhesives.
5. Ensure skirting boards are installed correctly after parquet installation.

Material Quality and Acarkon’s Contribution

Parquet installation is not only a decorative process but also a technical one that requires expertise and quality materials. Without the right underlayment, strong moisture barriers, high-quality adhesives, and professional tools, parquet flooring will not last.

At Acarkon, we provide all the necessary materials and professional support required for parquet installation. For those seeking stylish and durable flooring with premium parquet installation materials, Acarkon is one of the most trusted addresses.