Calling BS: Tar paper parallel to wood

Calling BS: Tar Paper Parallel to Wood

Asphalt felt paper is commonly used as an underlayment in hardwood flooring for moisture control, although it’s not technically a moisture barrier.

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Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2006 2:47 pm On top of the wood floor, NOFMA and the NWFA recommend 15 lb. asphalt felt. I use that on unfinished 3/4" flooring. On prefinished and thinner hardwoods, I prefer Aquabar "B" by Fortifiber. NONE of these systems are considered moisture barriers. As I said, that term isn't used so much today. It's about moisture CONTROL and vapor retarders.

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The common practice in laying underlayment for factory prefinished floors is to butt the paper seams to prevent ridges, unlike unfinished floors which are usually sanded down to a flat finish. For prefinished installations, using a thinner paper like Aquabar by Fortifiber and overlapping seems to be the preferred method.

So, what's the right way to do it? It really depends on the type of wood flooring you're working with. With thicker 3/4" solid floors, #15 asphalt felt paper is often lapped by 4", not 2", especially if the floor will be sanded on-site. For prefinished or thinner engineered floors, the felt should be butted and not overlapped to avoid creating ridges. It's one of those scenarios where the installer needs to choose the correct product and method based on the specifics of the project.

Personal Experiences and Expert Advice

Consider the shared experiences from professional installers: whenever you notice difficulties while installing (like engaging T&G where the felt overlaps), it’s probably a sign that the underlayment isn’t laid correctly. Many people agree that, though slight ridges won’t typically affect the stability of your furniture, they might be visually distracting depending on the lighting.

Moreover, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid unnecessary complications. Guidelines from NOFMA and NWFA back this up by suggesting specific types of underlayment for different kinds of flooring. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult with or hire a professional who has extensive hands-on experience.

Expert Tip:

Refer to more tips and product choices at Felt Flooring.

In conclusion, while the method for laying tar paper may vary depending on whether the hardwood is finished or unfinished, attention to detail and adherence to guidelines will yield the best results. Always consider the thickness and kind of flooring you're working with, and don't underestimate the importance of using the right materials for moisture control and vapor retardation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, taking the time to understand the nuances of underlayment installation can make all the difference in the longevity and appearance of your hardwood floors.