Vapor barriers are one way to prevent moisture from entering concrete. However, some subfloors can act as a vapor barrier. Floor moisture barriers are placed under the floor subfloor and can be purchased separately or as part of the subfloor. A vapour diffusion retarder slows the movement of moisture and prevents damage to the soil if any water vapor penetrates through a concrete subfloor.
A base coat can offer moisture resistance if accompanied by a vapor barrier. The subfloor is not a moisture barrier unless combined with one like this Premium Floor subfloor. Underlayment and vapor barriers are not the same, even though both can restrict moisture flow. A vapor barrier is nothing more than a thin piece of modified plastic or foil, while the subfloor is a thick cork-like material that restricts moisture, sound vibration and also resistance to compression. You'll get better moisture protection from the subfloor than with a vapor barrier.
If the amount of moisture is more than your undercoat can handle, then you will need a moisture barrier. If it does not exceed the quantity, then the subfloor can do the job. Some moisture barriers are simple and others are part of the subfloor that would be installed anyway. The subfloor moisture barrier makes it easy to install on moisture-prone subfloors. Especially for moisture-prone subfloors, opt for an ECF subfloor or a subfloor version with a built-in moisture barrier.
The Silent Silver subfloor is an easy to install foam substrate that provides excellent shock absorption and is water resistant. Regardless of the subfloor you choose, if you are going to install it in a moisture-prone subfloor or a concrete subfloor, you will really need a moisture barrier subfloor. We recommend that you spend as much as you can afford counterweight, as performance often depends on the price of counterfloors. If your laminate floorboards already have a subfloor pad, do not use an additional subfloor, as this would void the Swiss Krono warranty.
