Best Flooring Underlayments by Type

When it comes to flooring installations, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the choice of underlayment. While it might not be the first thing on your mind, the right underlayment will save you a lot of time and money. The thickness of the underlayment will contribute to the total height of the flooring. If the floor becomes too thick you will need to trim the doors. If you find yourself pondering over what is the best flooring underlayment, you’re not alone. The variety of options available can make this decision quite perplexing, especially given the technical nuances involved. Let’s delve deeper to understand the types of flooring underlayments and where they are best used.

What is a Flooring Underlayment?

A flooring underlayment is a layer sandwiched between the subfloor and the floor covering. It serves several vital functions: sound reduction, moisture protection, smoothing out subfloor imperfections, and providing additional comfort underfoot. It’s essential for the longevity and effectiveness of your flooring, acting as a protective layer and supporting the surface above.

When choosing a flooring underlayment, consider the following key factors:

• Flooring Type Compatibility: Ensure the underlayment is suitable for your specific flooring material.
• Moisture Protection Needs: For areas prone to moisture, select an underlayment with effective moisture barrier properties.
• Sound Insulation Requirements: If noise reduction is a priority, choose an underlayment with good sound-dampening qualities.
• Subfloor Condition: Opt for underlayments that can smooth out imperfections if your subfloor is uneven.
• Comfort and Cushioning: Consider the level of comfort and softness the underlayment provides, especially for floors like hardwood or laminate.
• Installation and Maintenance: Look for underlayments that are easy to install and maintain.

Types of Underlayments

Let’s explore the underlayment types in more detail:

Foam Underlayment

This lightweight option is ideal for laminate and engineered wood floors, providing basic sound reduction and insulation. It’s a cost-effective choice, particularly for residential projects.

Rubber Underlayment

Known for its excellent sound absorption and anti-vibration properties, rubber underlayment is perfect for apartments and high-traffic areas. Its moisture-resistant nature also makes it suitable for basement installations.

Cork Underlayment

As an eco-friendly choice, cork offers excellent sound insulation and natural resistance to mold and mildew. It’s compatible with both laminate and hardwood floors, providing a sustainable and versatile option.

Felt Underlayment

Felt is a traditional choice, often used for hardwood and laminate flooring. It offers good sound absorption and adds a layer of cushioning, enhancing the overall feel of the floor.

Combination Foam

This underlayment combines foam with a moisture barrier, making it ideal for environments where moisture might be an issue, such as over concrete subfloors.

Acoustic Underlayment

Specifically designed to reduce sound transmission, acoustic underlayments are perfect for multi-level buildings. They are usually made of dense, sound-absorbing materials.

Fiber Underlayment

Made from recycled fibers, this eco-friendly option provides excellent sound insulation and is often used under laminate and engineered wood.

Polyethylene Underlayment

This is a plastic underlayment, often used for its moisture-blocking properties. It’s typically used in areas where water resistance is a priority.

Each underlayment type offers unique benefits, catering to different flooring requirements and environments. Whether you need enhanced sound insulation, moisture protection, or eco-friendly options, there’s an underlayment that’s perfect for your specific flooring needs.

What is the Best Flooring Underlayment? 

Selecting the right underlayment for your flooring type is essential for both the functionality and longevity of your floor. Here, we delve into the best underlayment choices for various popular flooring types, ensuring optimal performance and durability.

What is the Best Underlayment for Laminate Flooring on Concrete?

• Best Choice: Combination Foam Underlayment.
• Why: This type provides both cushioning and a moisture barrier, which is crucial when installing laminate flooring over concrete. The moisture barrier protects the laminate from potential dampness seeping up from the concrete.

What is the Best Underlayment for a Bathroom Floor?

• Best Choice: Rubber Underlayment.
• Why: Given the high moisture environment of a bathroom, rubber underlayment is ideal due to its moisture-resistant properties. It also adds an extra layer of comfort underfoot, which is a nice touch in a bathroom setting.

What is the Best Underlayment for Bamboo Flooring?

• Best Choice: Cork Underlayment.
• Why: Cork’s natural resilience and sound insulation properties complement bamboo flooring well. It also adds a layer of thermal insulation, making the floor more comfortable underfoot.

What’s the Best Underlayment for Hardwood Floors?

• Best Choice: Combination Foam Underlayment or Felt Underlayment.
• Why: Felt underlayment provides a dense, cushioned layer that helps to minimize sound transmission and adds a luxurious feel under hardwood floors. It also helps to smooth out minor subfloor imperfections.

What is the Best Underlayment for Vinyl Plank Flooring?

• Best Choice: Combination Foam Underlayment or simple Foam Underlayment.
• Why: A basic foam underlayment is often sufficient for vinyl plank flooring, as it provides a smooth surface for installation and offers basic sound reduction. If moisture is a concern, a foam underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier should be considered.

What is the Best Underlayment for Tile Floors?

• Best Choice: Cement-based Backer Board.
• Why: For tile floors, particularly in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and kitchens, a cement-based backer board provides a stable, moisture-resistant base. This underlayment ensures that the tiles remain level and properly adhered over time.

Comparative Table: Different Flooring Types and Application