Q: I am embarking on a remodel project of an older condo project built in 1985, the unit is on the 4th floor and the structure I am told by the current manager is a wood strucutre, so its not the typical concrete slab you would find in new buildings. I was informed that since its a wood structure it would be very noise for me to install or rather have installed wood or laminate flooring in the unit and that was the reason why only carpeting was usually allowed by the HOA. I have gotten clearance for the installation of my hardwood/laminate floor by the HOA if I can prove to them I can install it so its not so loud. I am looking at installing a laminate floor and wonder is this at all possible if I say install a cork sub-flooring before hand or is this method simply not going to work? I would love if someone could let me know if I’m on a wild goose chase. I would prefer to install a laminate floor instead of another carpet but would love any type of suggestions you guys may have. I really liked the Brazilian Cherry Quick Step Home 7mm Series you guys offered for $1.49/SF but I’m not sure if this product would be alright. Thanks again for your time and efforts in responding to my question. In short the unit is around 1200/SF and about 800/SF would be needed to be converted from carpet to laminate flooring.
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With Regards,
Lawrence R. Hsu
A: The key to ensuring that this project succeeds will lie in two things: underlayment and the floor’s thickness. Underlayment is critical – so if you want to make sure you can have a laminate floor I would use a 6mm cork underlayment. 6mm cork is the premium underlayment when it comes to condos and its STC ratings should reduce enough noise to remove any worries your HOA may have.
The other major key here is the thickness of the laminate you choose. Thinner laminates will produce more noise when they are walked over than thicker laminate. Quick Step makes a great product, but I would suggest looking into something that is at least 10mm. There are several rather well built and great looking laminates made that fit this spec.
One final tip I have for you to ensure some success and reduce noise is to check your subfloor for noisy areas. If you find any areas which creak or make noise when you walk over them, use some flooring screws and screw down the noisy areas to the joists. This will help reduce noise over all and when combined with the cork and a good laminate should prove to be a winning combo.
