Best Laminate Flooring Underlayment for Noise Reduction and Comfort

Best Laminate Flooring Underlayment

When installing laminate flooring, underlayment might not be the first thing on your mind, but it plays a crucial role in the overall performance of your floors. Whether you're remodeling your home or upgrading a single room, choosing the best laminate flooring underlayment is essential for noise reduction, comfort, and long-term durability.

If you're shopping for high-quality laminate options, visit O'Fallon Family Floors, where you can find an excellent selection of stylish and durable laminate flooring to pair with the perfect underlayment.

Why Underlayment Matters

Underlayment is a thin layer of material installed between the subfloor and laminate flooring. It serves multiple purposes:

• Noise Reduction: Minimizes impact and airborne noise, making your space quieter.

• Comfort: Adds cushioning underfoot, which is especially beneficial in living rooms and bedrooms.

• Moisture Protection: Helps prevent moisture from damaging the laminate.

• Leveling: Smooths out minor subfloor imperfections.

Neglecting this essential component can lead to noisy floors, uneven surfaces, and a lack of insulation. Choosing the right underlayment enhances your laminate flooring’s performance and helps you get the most out of your investment.

Types of Laminate Flooring Underlayment

There are various underlayment options designed to meet different needs. Let’s look at the most common types:

1. Foam Underlayment

• Best For: Budget-friendly installations.

• Features: Lightweight, easy to install, and provides basic sound dampening and cushioning.

• Downside: Limited moisture resistance.

2. Combination Underlayment (Foam + Moisture Barrier)

• Best For: Areas prone to moisture, like basements or bathrooms.

• Features: Includes a vapor barrier layer to protect against moisture.

• Downside: Slightly more expensive.

3. Cork Underlayment

• Best For: Superior noise reduction and eco-conscious homeowners.

• Features: Natural material, excellent at absorbing sound and preventing mold growth.

• Downside: Higher cost.

4. Rubber Underlayment

• Best For: Premium sound insulation.

• Features: Durable, high-performing in sound reduction and moisture protection.

• Downside: Heavy and expensive.

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting an underlayment, keep the following in mind:

• Sound Ratings (STC & IIC): These ratings indicate how well the underlayment blocks airborne and impact sound. The higher the number, the better the noise control.

• Moisture Protection: Choose underlayments with vapor barriers for humid areas.

• Thickness: Thicker underlayments offer better cushioning and soundproofing but must match the laminate flooring specs.

• Subfloor Type: Concrete subfloors may require different underlayments compared to plywood.

• Installation Method: Some underlayments are peel-and-stick, while others roll out. Choose one that suits your installation skill level.

Best Underlayment Products for Noise Reduction and Comfort

Here are a few top-performing options for reducing noise and increasing comfort:

1. Roberts Super Felt Premium Underlayment

• Material: Felt

• Features: Excellent sound reduction, eco-friendly, good cushioning

• Ideal For: Multi-level homes or apartments

2. QuietWalk Plus Underlayment

• Material: Recycled fibers with a moisture barrier

• Features: Great STC/IIC ratings, moisture protection, thermal insulation

• Ideal For: Any subfloor, especially concrete

3. FloorMuffler UltraSeal Underlayment

• Material: Cross-linked polypropylene foam

• Features: High sound control, built-in moisture barrier, lightweight

• Ideal For: Homeowners wanting a high-performance yet easy-to-install solution

4. Cali Complete Cork Underlayment

• Material: Cork

• Features: Hypoallergenic, mold-resistant, renewable resource

• Ideal For: Eco-conscious buyers and upper-floor installations

Installation Tips

Proper installation ensures your underlayment performs as expected. Here are a few best practices:

• Clean the Subfloor: Remove dust, debris, and moisture before laying underlayment.

• Overlap and Seal Seams: For underlayments with moisture barriers, overlap the edges and seal with waterproof tape.

• Leave Expansion Gaps: Follow your laminate flooring manufacturer’s guidelines for spacing.

• Check Compatibility: Make sure the underlayment is approved for use with laminate flooring.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Skipping underlayment altogether

• Choosing the wrong type for your subfloor

• Not using a moisture barrier in humid spaces

• Ignoring manufacturer guidelines

Where to Buy Laminate Flooring and Underlayment

Looking for a one-stop shop for your laminate flooring project? Head over to O'Fallon Family Floors to explore a wide range of laminate flooring styles and high-quality underlayments. Their expert team can help guide you to the best products for your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best laminate flooring underlayment is key to a quiet, comfortable, and long-lasting floor. By considering factors like sound reduction, moisture protection, and your subfloor type, you can ensure your new floors not only look great but also perform exceptionally well for years to come.

What type of underlayment are you considering for your next project? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!