Use and Care Manual

LEVELING THE FLOOR
If, in addition to leveling the subfloor, it is required to raise its height, then a thicker board can
be used. As an alternative, thinner STEICO underlayment on hand can be installed in several
layers. Both thickness can be stacked or combined as needed.
When laying wood fiber underlayment in multiple layers, it is important that the joints (seams)
of the layers and levels do not coincide with each other. It can be achieved by shifting the boards
relative to each other or by putting the second layer in a direction different from the layer below.
VAPOR PERMEABILITY
Boards that are made from wood fibers differ with high vapor permeability – the ability to remove
excess moisture from the premises, keeping the structure of the house dry. This technology is
called "vapor open". Once installed due to the excellent vapor permeability and air circulation,
the house “breathes", this process minimizes conditions for musty odor, mold, and mildew
growth.
MOISTURE HANDLING
Wood fiber underlayment can get wet and subsequently dry out without losing its physical,
thermal, and soundproofing properties throughout the process. Boards can absorb up to 20% of
their mass of excess moisture from the air in the room and release it back when the air is dry.
Thus, wood fiber boards are a natural indoor microclimate regulator.
HIGH HEAT RESISTANCE
STEICO wood fiber underlayment does not deteriorate and does not change its geometry when
exposed to elevated temperature such as use of “radiant heat” floors system. Maintaining the
original dimensions is one of the most important properties for sound and heat insulation since
cracks and gaps can lead to a complete loss of insulating properties.
STEICO wood fiber underlayment has R-Value of 2 per inch. So, if you are looking at 1/8" thickness
product it will be - 0.25, 1/4" thickness product - 0.5.
1/8” STEICO wood fiber underlayment thickness works perfectly with all types of heated floors.
FIRE RESISTANCE
In the event of a direct fire, the wood fiber is charred which sufficiently slows the transmission
of flame over its surface. Charring protects objects and surfaces behind the fibreboard, as well
as the supporting structures of the building from loss of strength.