Mattress Selection Guide: SELITAC, SELITPRO and SELITeco
1. Why Flooring Underlayment Is Non-Negotiable
Underlayments do much more than just prevent friction between the floor and the laminate/wood. Here are the core insulation benefits you should focus on for long-term comfort and performance:
- Impact Sound Insulation: It reduces the noise (impact sound) from footsteps or falling objects, which can be particularly disturbing for neighbors in multi-story buildings. Thicker underlays generally perform better in this regard.
- Moisture and Vapor Protection (Vapor Barrier): Moisture rising from the concrete subfloor can cause laminate or wood flooring to swell. This is why underlayments with built-in moisture barrier technology, such as AquaStop, are critical.
- Subfloor Leveling: The underlayment absorbs minor subfloor irregularities (up to 2-3 mm), preventing air gaps and flexing beneath the flooring, which extends the life of the floor's locking system.
- Thermal Insulation: On cold floors, it acts as a slight thermal barrier, increasing underfoot warmth.
2. In-Depth Comparative Analysis of SELIT Product Series
The SELIT underlayment models offered by Acarkon provide solutions for various needs and budgets.
SELITAC Series: Reliable and Economical Solution (2.2 mm)
The SELITAC series combines easy installation with affordability.
- SELITAC 2.2 Mm: It is 2.2 mm thick and offers standard sound and thermal insulation for general laminate and wood floors.
- SELITAC 2,2 Mm AquaStop: This model is also 2.2 mm thick but combines standard insulation with an additional Vapor Barrier feature. It is ideal for basements or subfloors with moisture risk.
If you are unsure about the moisture level of your subfloor, opting for the SELITAC 2.2 Mm AquaStop model with its Aqua Stop feature can protect your flooring from moisture damage. For standard subfloors, the SELITAC 2.2 Mm is an ideal starting point.
SELITPRO Series: Professional Performance and Thickness (2/5 mm)
The SELITPRO series stands out for its high-density structure and is suitable for those seeking professional performance.
- SELITPRO 2 Mm AquaStop: It is 2 mm thick, has high density, and features AquaStop, making it recommended for commercial areas and high-traffic residential spaces. [View SELITPRO 2 Mm AquaStop]
- SELITPRO 5 Mm AquaStop: It is 5 mm thick, highly dense, and offers Maximum Acoustic Performance. It is the most suitable solution for those seeking superior impact sound reduction and addressing downstairs noise complaints. [View SELITPRO 5 Mm AquaStop]
While SELITPRO 2 Mm AquaStop is recommended for commercial areas seeking thinner, professional moisture protection; those looking for the best in both subfloor leveling and sound insulation should choose the 5 mm model.
SELITeco Series: The Eco-Friendly Thick Option (5 mm)
SELITeco 5 Mm: It offers 5 mm thickness, stands out for its eco-friendly composition, and is successful at dampening impact sound. It is ideal for eco-conscious projects and those requiring high thickness and standard protection. [View SELITeco 5 Mm]
3. Key Technical Terms to Focus on When Selecting Underlayment
When making a professional selection, don't just focus on thickness; concentrate on the following technical abbreviations and features:
- SD Value (Vapor Resistance): The higher this value, the better the product's moisture barrier performance.
- CS (Compressive Strength): A high CS value means the underlayment can support the floor's locking system under heavy loads without collapsing. This is crucial for offices and commercial areas.
- Aqua Stop: This feature indicates that the underlayment has a protective layer against moisture vapor rising from the subfloor.
Remember: Saving money on underlayment can shorten the lifespan of your expensive flooring. Always prioritize quality for performance and longevity. At Acarkon, you can find all SELIT Underlayment and Kapron Models on our website and choose the best solution for your needs with the help of our experts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is underlayment absolutely necessary beneath the flooring?
Underlayment extends the lifespan of the flooring by insulating impact sound, smoothing out subfloor irregularities, and preventing moisture from the concrete slab from reaching the floor.
What is the biggest benefit of using flooring underlayment?
The biggest benefit is improving acoustic comfort by reducing footstep noise (impact sound) transmitted to lower floors and protecting the floor's locking system.
Is the main difference between SELITAC, SELITPRO, and SELITeco just the thickness?
The main difference is not only thickness but also density and moisture resistance; SELITPRO offers professional density, while SELITeco is an eco-friendly, thick alternative.
What does the AquaStop feature do and why is it important against moisture risk?
AquaStop acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture and water vapor rising from the subfloor from reaching your flooring, making it critical, especially for basements.
Which SELIT underlayment provides maximum sound insulation?
The SELITPRO 5 Mm AquaStop offers the best impact sound insulation performance due to its 5 mm thickness and high density.
When does high Compressive Strength (CS value) become critical?
A high CS value becomes critical in areas exposed to heavy loads and high traffic, such as offices or commercial spaces, ensuring the underlayment supports the floor without collapsing.