Types of underlay
Author: Tony Corso Date Posted:9 April 2025
Types of Underlay: When selecting underlay, you'll find several common types available, each offering different levels of comfort, support, insulation, or serving specific flooring preparation needs:
- Foam Underlay: Often made from polyurethane (PU), this is a very popular choice for carpet, available in various densities (e.g., 9mm, 10mm, 11mm thickness often corresponds to density/quality). Higher density foam generally provides better durability, support for the carpet pile, and enhanced thermal and acoustic insulation. Many quality foam underlays are made from recycled materials, are asthma and allergy friendly and have been tested for heated slabs. View Foam Underlay
- Rubber Underlay: Sponge rubber underlays are renowned for their excellent durability, superior underfoot comfort ('bounce'), and fantastic noise reduction capabilities, primarily used under carpet. It allows air to circulate under the carpet which provides robust support, helping the carpet look good for longer.
- Felt Underlay: A more traditional option for carpet, felt underlay can offer good thermal insulation and is often made from recycled fibres. It provides a firmer feel underfoot compared to some foams or rubbers. View Airstep Cushion Pad
- Masonite Underlay: This is a hardboard product specifically used for creating a perfectly smooth, flat, and uniform surface before installing certain types of flooring, most commonly sheet vinyl. Masonite boards cover imperfections in the subfloor (like timber floorboards or particleboard) ensuring the vinyl lays flat without bumps or gaps, which is crucial for a professional finish and the longevity of the vinyl flooring. While essential for substrate preparation, its primary role isn't thermal or acoustic insulation in the way carpet underlays function. View Masonite Board
- Specialty Underlays: Beyond these, you might find underlays designed for specific needs like high-traffic commercial areas, dedicated acoustic options for maximum sound dampening, products compatible with underfloor heating systems, or thin underlays tailored for floating floors like laminate or engineered timber.
Understanding these types helps you choose the best fit for your specific room, flooring choice (carpet, vinyl, timber etc.), budget, and insulation or preparation goals. At Swan Street Sales, we stock a comprehensive selection covering various needs and materials. Visit our Richmond Store to explore our collection and see the quality first hand.