Wood and Laminate Flooring Underlay

Laminate Underlay FAQs

Why do I need underlay for laminate flooring?

While underlay isn’t always required for vinyl, laminate, or engineered wood flooring, it can optimise the performance and durability of the flooring.

Installing laminate flooring underlay can offer the following benefits:

• Improved comfort with the additional layer of cushioning
• Reduced noise transmission thanks to the insulating layer
• Protection against moisture and damp rising from the subfloor
• Increased stability with reduced creaking due to minimal movement
• Decreased wear and tear after covering subfloor imperfections  

Overall, installing wood or laminate underlay can make a significant difference to your experience of walking on the floor and the longevity of the flooring.

We would particularly recommend it in shared living spaces, such as multi-level homes or apartment buildings, for added comfort and sound insulation.

What is the best underlay for laminate flooring?

Which underlay is best for laminate flooring depends on factors such as the subfloor type, the flooring thickness, and the properties you’re looking for.

For example, concrete subfloors require an underlay with a damp-proof membrane, while a wood subfloor would need more air exposure. 

Then, you need to consider the thickness and density of the underlay compared to the flooring. If you have an underfloor heating system, it’s recommended to choose a thinner, low-TOG underlay that will let the heat transfer effectively.

For standard flooring without a heating system, you can choose a thicker underlay, which is ideal if you want increased underfoot comfort and noise reduction. Even without underfloor heating, you can still opt for a laminate underlay with a higher TOG rating of over 0.5 for thermal insulation. 

Whatever your preferences, you’re sure to find the best laminate floor underlay for your needs amongst our selection of sponge rubber underlays.

Still not sure what to lay under laminate flooring? Read our guide on how to choose the right underlay for laminate flooring, or contact us for tailored advice!

How thick should my underlay be for laminate flooring?

Underlay is available in a range of thicknesses, but for standard laminate flooring underlay, the optimal thickness is generally around 3–4mm.

Here is a quick comparison of what to expect from different thickness levels:

• 1–2 mm – Thin underlay (typically made from white foam) is a budget-friendly option that provides a basic level of protection over the subfloor.  
• 3–4mm – Medium underlay (usually made from higher-density rubber) is a more durable option that improves comfort, noise reduction, and longevity.
• 5mm+ – Thick underlay (made from foil-backed foam or fibreboard) offers much greater cushioning and insulation, but foam isn’t dense enough for use in high-traffic areas, and this thickness isn’t compatible with underfloor heating systems.

An underfloor heating underlay for laminate flooring should be 1–4mm thick.

For a more detailed comparison of the best laminate underlay thickness options, check out our laminate underlay thickness guide. 

If you need further advice on what mm underlay is best for laminate flooring, you can always get in touch, and our team can help you choose a suitable underlay.