The Importance of Laminate Floor Underlay in the UK

When it comes to installing laminate flooring, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important is the underlay. The underlay is the layer of material that sits between the subfloor and the laminate planks. While it may seem like a small detail, the underlay can have a big impact on the look, feel, and durability of your new flooring. In the UK, there are several options for laminate floor underlay, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

In this article, we will explore the different types of laminate floor underlay available in the UK, as well as their pros and cons. We will also discuss why underlay is so important and how it can affect the overall performance of your laminate flooring.

What is Laminate Floor Underlay?

Laminate floor underlay is a thin layer of material that is installed between the subfloor and the laminate planks. Its primary purpose is to provide a cushioned surface that helps to absorb impact and reduce noise. It also helps to create a more even surface for the laminate planks to sit on, which can prevent them from moving or shifting over time.

Underlay can be made from a variety of materials, including foam, rubber, cork, and felt. Each material has its own unique properties that make it better suited for certain applications. For example, foam underlay is lightweight and easy to install, while rubber underlay is more durable and provides better sound insulation.

Types of Laminate Floor Underlay

Foam Underlay

Foam underlay is one of the most popular types of laminate floor underlay in the UK. It is lightweight, easy to install, and affordable. Foam underlay is made from polyethylene or polyurethane foam and is available in a variety of thicknesses. Thicker foam underlay provides better sound insulation and is more comfortable to walk on, but it can also be more expensive.

Rubber Underlay

Rubber underlay is another popular option for laminate flooring in the UK. It is more durable than foam underlay and provides better sound insulation. Rubber underlay is made from recycled rubber and is available in a range of thicknesses. Thicker rubber underlay is more expensive but provides better insulation and is more comfortable to walk on.

Cork Underlay

Cork underlay is a natural and sustainable option for laminate flooring in the UK. It is made from the bark of cork oak trees and is available in a range of thicknesses. Cork underlay provides excellent sound insulation and is comfortable to walk on. It is also moisture-resistant, which makes it ideal for use in areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Felt Underlay

Felt underlay is a traditional option for laminate flooring in the UK. It is made from recycled fibers and is available in a range of thicknesses. Felt underlay provides good sound insulation and is comfortable to walk on. However, it is not as durable as other types of underlay and can compress over time, which can cause problems with the laminate flooring.

Why is Underlay Important?

Underlay is an essential component of any laminate flooring installation. It helps to provide a cushioned surface that absorbs impact and reduces noise. It also helps to create a more even surface for the laminate planks to sit on, which can prevent them from moving or shifting over time.

Underlay can also help to improve the overall performance of your laminate flooring. It can provide better insulation, which can help to reduce your energy bills. It can also help to protect your laminate flooring from moisture, which can cause it to warp or buckle over time.

Conclusion

Choosing the right laminate floor underlay is essential for achieving the best possible results with your new flooring. Whether you opt for foam, rubber, cork, or felt underlay, make sure you choose a product that is suited to your specific needs and preferences. By doing so, you can ensure that your laminate flooring looks and performs its best for years to come.