Underlay

Underlay is a layer of material placed between the subfloor and the flooring. It serves several purposes, including sound reduction, insulation, and added comfort. Underlay helps protect the flooring, making it last longer, and provides a smoother, more stable surface, which is especially useful for laminate and vinyl flooring installations.

Yes, underlay can significantly reduce noise by absorbing sound, making it a popular choice in multi-story homes or apartments. Rubber and foam underlays are particularly effective for soundproofing, helping to minimise noise transmission between floors and creating a quieter, more peaceful living environment.

Absolutely. Underlay adds a layer of thermal insulation, helping to keep rooms warmer by reducing heat loss through the floor. This is especially beneficial in colder climates or for ground-level floors where underlay helps to keep the room more comfortable and may even reduce energy costs over time.

While underlay is essential for laminate and vinyl flooring, it may not be needed for some types of flooring, like glued-down hardwood. However, even when not required, underlay can improve comfort, insulation, and soundproofing, so it’s often worth considering, even for floors that don't strictly need it.

The ideal underlay for laminate flooring depends on your specific needs and the subfloor conditions. Foam underlay is a popular choice for laminate as it provides a good balance of comfort and soundproofing. If you're installing laminate on concrete or a ground-floor surface, it’s best to use an underlay with a built-in moisture barrier to protect against dampness. For rooms where sound reduction is a priority, such as upper floors or shared walls, a thicker underlay with soundproofing properties, like rubber, is a great option. Ultimately, the right underlay for laminate will support the floor’s durability, comfort, and functionality for your space.

For Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT), it's important to use a firm and dense underlay designed specifically for vinyl flooring. LVT requires a smooth, stable foundation, so underlays that are too soft or thick could cause the tiles to flex or shift. Opt for an underlay with a moisture barrier if you're installing LVT over concrete or in a room prone to dampness, as this will help prevent moisture from affecting the vinyl. Additionally, if sound reduction is needed, look for an underlay with soundproofing properties, such as specialised foam underlays, to improve comfort and acoustics. The right underlay will provide stability, protect the flooring, and enhance the longevity of your LVT.

Yes, but it’s important to choose an underlay specifically designed for use with underfloor heating. Underfloor heating-compatible underlays are usually thinner and have a high thermal conductivity to allow heat to pass through efficiently. Look for an underlay with a low tog rating (typically below 0.8 tog), as this indicates it won’t block the heat from reaching your flooring. Additionally, using an underlay with built-in moisture resistance can be beneficial when combined with underfloor heating to prevent condensation from affecting the floor. Always ensure that both your chosen underlay and flooring type are compatible with underfloor heating for optimal performance and warmth.