Key To Long-Lasting Floors Lies Under The Surface (NAPSA)—Whether you choose hardwood, laminate, vinyl, ceramic tile or carpeting, the key to a beautiful floor may be what lies beneath the surface. While flooring underlayments may not be glamorous, they definitely deserve close attention. Just like the padding installed under a carpet, the quality of the underlayment plays a major role in how well your floor will look and how longit will perform. So, if you tackle a construction or remodeling project this season, either on your own or with a builder or contractor, make sure the underlayment you select will stand the test of time. Be especially careful when installing the underlayment and floor finish in areas of the homethat are subject to moisture penetration, such as kitchens, entry foyers and baths. Many builders and contractors use OSB (oriented strand board), plywood or lauan products as floor underlayments. These products have limitations when compared to advanced new alternatives such as USG’s Fiperock Brand Underlayment— Aqua-TouGH. This moisture-resistant flooring underlayment is made from 100-percent recycled gypsum and cellulose. It can be used in both wet and dry areas of the home, and offers an environmentally friendly alternative to products made from wood harvested in old-growth forests. If you are putting down carpet throughout your home, OSB may be suitable, but if it is used under This environmentally friendly flooring underlayment resists moisture. vinyl, the rough surface may eventually show through. FIBEROCcK underlayment delivers up to 60 percent more indentation-resistance than these products, while ensuring a smooth,flat surface. Also, the panels contain no resins, adhesives, solvents or dyes to stain floor-covering materials. Using this water-resistant underlayment can prevent the swelling and warping caused when other underlayments are exposed to moisture. This is especially true for floor coverings that are sensitive to movement, such as ceramic tile systems. Swelling and warping of underlayment can lead to debonding or cracking of individualtiles. For more information, contact USG Corporation, P.O. Box 806278, Chicago, IL 60680, call 1-800-USG-4YOU or visit www.usg.com.
