Understanding underlay

Discover the crucial role underlay plays in flooring. Learn why choosing the right underlay is essential for your space…

Underlay is often overlooked, quite literally because we don’t see it. Out of sight out of mind. But if anything, it’s the most important component when it comes to flooring. You’ve spent time choosing the perfect new carpet or flooring, now spend time to choose the right underlay.

Here are 5 reasons why a good underlay is so important…

5 Reasons to choose the BEST underlay for your flooring

1. Comfort

Cushioning: Whether you are dancing in the living room, sitting down playing games with the kids or watching movies – our homes are lived in, and we want them to be as comfortable as possible. A good quality underlay will help the carpet bounce back to its original position and will provide a softer and more comfortable feel underfoot by adding an extra layer of cushioning.

2. Thermal insulation

Underlay will provide another layer of insulation, making it not only warmer to walk on but it retains the heat in the room much better. Plus high-quality underlay can actually save you money by reducing heat loss, leading to lower energy bills (which in these testing times is a much needed relief!)

3. Durability

Prolongs Carpet Life: A good underlay can reduce wear and tear on the carpet by absorbing the impact of foot traffic. 

Prevents Flattening: It can help the carpet maintain its appearance by preventing it from flattening or becoming matted, keeping it looking better for longer.

4. Noise reduction

Sound Insulation: Reduces noise by absorbing sound, which is especially beneficial in multi-story buildings. 

5. Moisture barrier

Protection: Some underlays can help protect your flooring from subfloor moisture, preventing damage caused by dampness.

Tog Ratings

Tog ratings measure the thermal resistance of an underlay. A lower tog rating means lower thermal resistance, while a higher rating indicates greater resistance. The tog rating reflects how well the underlay can retain and trap heat, which is essential for creating a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor space.

If you have underfloor heating, then in order for that to function efficiently the tog rating of the carpet and underlay combined must be less than 2.5.

Are there different types of underlay?

Yes, just like carpets and vinyl, underlay comes in a range of different types. These include:

Foam underlay – Typically made of PU foam, this is one of the most versatile types of underlay. It’s soft and lightweight as well as being good for insulation and noise reduction.

Sponge rubber underlay – Sponge rubber underlay is very durable and great for sound reduction which makes it one of the best carpet underlays for concrete floors. It’s also the best carpet underlay for underfloor heating as it allows heat from the underfloor panels to escape into the room efficiently.

Felt underlay – This is a more traditional form of underlay that provides excellent cushioning as well as a reasonable level of noise reduction and warmth. Felt underlays are typically made of wool, making them cheaper and easier to lay.

Here at Floor Coverings we have sourced the best options available for you: 

Tredaire Colours Red

Thickness 11.4 mm
Sound insulation 46dB
Heat insulation 1.65 tog

Ambience, The Tredaire Premier Range

Thickness 9mm
Sound insulation 39dB
Heat insulation 2.37 tog

Timbermate Excel

Thickness 3.6mm high density
Sound Insulation 23dB
Heat Insulation 0.55 tog
The most effective sound reducing underlay, decreasing in-room noise up to 30% and contains the vapours top barrier.

Axfelt – used under our Roger Oates stair runners

Sound insulation 32db
Heat insulation 2.7 tog

If you take one thing… 

Choose the best underlay you can afford. There is no point having a beautiful carpet with a sub standard underlay. Underlay, although out of sight should not be out of mind when choosing your carpet.