Why Carpet Underlay Matters: Understanding the Importance of this Often Overlooked Flooring Component

 Carpet Underlay can make a huge difference to the way our living spaces look and feel. However, too often homeowners get caught up in the process of selecting the perfect style and colour carpet, failing to consider the crucial component that lies underneath – the underlay. When correctly selected, the right underlay can dramatically improve the comfort of a new or existing carpet and also extend its lifespan by protecting it from excessive wear.

Made from a variety of materials including rubber

A quality underlay can be made from a variety of materials including rubber, felt and crumb rubber, or recycled plastic. It is typically placed under a carpet to provide cushioning, reduce the wear on the flooring and subfloor, and also to insulate against sound, moisture and heat.

Traditionally, rubber underlay has been popular due to its high performance in both durability and sound reduction. Its ability to absorb impact noise and reduce echoes makes it ideal for areas of high footfall, while its density prevents the carpet from flattening after repeated use. Today, however, many rubber underlays are being replaced by more advanced PU foam and wool underlay solutions that offer superior performance, comfort and insulation.

 Most premium quality carpets are hessian backed

Another benefit of using a good underlay is that it can help to keep rooms warmer. This is because most premium quality carpets are hessian backed, featuring microscopic holes from the specialist weaving process that they undergo. These minute holes allow cold air to creep upwards under a carpet, particularly on wooden floors, but a good underlay creates an effective barrier between the floor and the carpet that mitigates this issue.

 Left by heavy furniture on a carpet

It can also help to minimise the indentation marks that are often left by heavy furniture on a carpet. This will make your carpet appear much more like a luxury product and can extend its lifespan by protecting it from excessive wear and tear.

Choosing the right underlay can be difficult

Choosing the right underlay can be difficult because there are so many options available. It is always best to check the recommendations of your carpet manufacturer and consult a carpet professional for further guidance. The purpose and usage of a room is also a key factor in choosing the underlay that is most suitable as different carpet types require different qualities of underlay. For example, loop pile carpets require a more resilient underlay than cut pile.

Carpet underlay also has a range of other important functions that can be vital to the success and long-term performance of your carpet. These include:

Conclusion

When you are ready to start your journey towards a more comfortable home, our experienced team can guide you through the process of choosing the right underlay for your next carpet and how to lay it correctly. Contact us today to find out more about our products and services.