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Types of Underlay
PU Foam Underlay
Crumb Rubber Underlay
Sponge Rubber Underlay
Acoustic Underlay
Low-Tog Underlay
Best Underlay for Each Flooring Type
Laminate Flooring
Wood Flooring
Solid Wood Flooring
Vinyl and SPC Flooring
The Best underlays for Carpet
The best Underlays for Carpeted Stairs and Landings
Underfloor Heating
Underlay for Concrete Subfloors
Underlay for Wooden Subfloors
Underlay Thickness Guide
Eco Friendly Underlay Choices
Conclusion
Choosing the right underlay improves comfort, insulation, noise control and the performance of your flooring. This guide explains the different types of underlay available in the UK and helps you select the best one for your flooring, room type and installation method.
Underlay sits between the subfloor and the visible floor surface. It improves comfort, insulation, sound absorption and durability. Different types suit different needs.
Made from recycled polyurethane foam. Soft, cushioned, warm and easy to handle. Ideal for bedrooms and lounges.
Made from recycled car tyres. Dense, durable and stable. Good for hallways, stairs and high traffic areas.
Traditional and reliable. Available as flat sponge for firmness or waffle sponge for a softer feel. Often used with carpet.
Usually made from rubber. Reduces impact and airborne sound. Ideal for flats, upper floors and multi storey homes.
Efficiently transmits heat so is used with underfloor heating
This section explains which underlay works best for each flooring type and includes recommended Interfloor products.
Laminate needs stability, sound reduction and moisture protection. Acoustic foam reduces noise on upper floors and combination underlays provide both sound and moisture control.
Engineered wood requires underlay that supports natural expansion. Low density foam allows movement, while acoustic rubber improves stability and sound control.
Solid wood needs a firm, stable base. Dense rubber, felt and cork underlays reduce movement and support the timber.
Vinyl and SPC require thin, firm support to prevent imperfections showing through. High density foam or rubber based underlays work best.
Carpet benefits from underlay that enhances comfort, insulation and protects the carpet-pile from crushing. PU foam adds softness, while crumb rubber is ideal for high traffic areas.
Stairs need dense, durable underlay that resists compression and maintains support.
Underfloor heating requires an underlay with very low thermal resistance. A TOG rating of 0.35 or below is recommended. Additional information can be found here.
Concrete can release moisture, so use DPM backed underlays. Rubber, bitumen felt and foil backed foam provide moisture control and insulation.
Avoid DPM layers because they trap moisture.
Recycled crumb rubber and rebonded PU foam are sustainable underlays offering durability and insulation while reducing environmental impact.
Choosing the right underlay improves comfort, reduces noise and protects your flooring. The right product depends on your flooring type, room conditions and performance needs. A well selected underlay ensures the floor lasts longer and performs reliably.
