Most laminate floors are installed as floating floors, so choose an underlay designed for floating laminate. If you want a quieter room, look for a higher impact sound reduction rating. If moisture protection is needed, choose an option with an integrated vapour barrier or add a separate barrier sheet where required.
Find the right underlay for your floor
Underlay is the layer that sits between your subfloor and your flooring. The right underlay can reduce footfall noise, improve comfort underfoot, add insulation, and help protect the floor build-up where moisture protection is needed. We stock underlays for trade and DIY projects, with options for laminate, engineered wood and click LVT across different thicknesses and performance levels.
To choose the right one, start with your floor type and installation method, then match it to your subfloor (timber or concrete). If your priority is a quieter room, focus on the impact sound reduction rating. If you have underfloor heating, choose a low thermal resistance option marked UFH suitable. If you need moisture protection, select an underlay with an integrated vapour barrier or add a separate barrier sheet where required.
Flooring Underlay FAQ's
Yes, if the engineered wood floor is installed as a floating floor. Match the underlay to your flooring manufacturer guidance and choose the performance you need, such as sound reduction, insulation, or moisture protection.
Click LVT needs a high-density underlay designed for vinyl click systems. Avoid soft foam underlays made for laminate, as they can reduce stability and affect the locking joints.
Some installations need moisture protection as part of the floor build-up. You can choose an underlay with an integrated vapour barrier or use a separate vapour barrier sheet beneath the underlay. Always follow the flooring manufacturer guidance and site conditions.
Some underlays are UFH suitable and others are not. Use an underlay marked UFH suitable and follow the flooring manufacturer maximum tog or thermal guidance for the full floor build-up. If a product is marked UFH suitable: No, do not use it over underfloor heating.