Underlay explained, and whether it is worth upgrading
Underlay absorbs the impact that would otherwise wear out your carpet, adds warmth and quiet, and makes a mid priced carpet feel far better underfoot. Upgrading it is usually the best value change you can make to a flooring budget.
What underlay actually does
It takes the compression. Every footstep crushes the carpet pile against whatever is beneath it, and a good underlay cushions that so the pile recovers. Fit a decent carpet on worn out or very thin underlay and it will look tired years early.
It also insulates and deadens sound, which matters in flats, on timber floors and over cold solid ground floors.
The main types
PU foam is the most common, light and comfortable with good insulation for the money. Sponge rubber and crumb rubber are denser and firmer, which suits heavy traffic and stairs. Felt and combination underlays are firmer again and suit certain carpet types.
Thickness is not the same as quality. A dense 8mm can outperform a soft 11mm, particularly on stairs where a very thick underlay can feel unstable.
When to upgrade and when not to bother
Upgrade on stairs, in halls, over cold solid floors and in flats where noise matters. In a low traffic spare bedroom, a standard underlay is perfectly adequate and the money is better spent elsewhere.
One firm rule: do not reuse old underlay under a new carpet unless it is genuinely in good condition. It is the cheapest part of the job and the one most likely to spoil it.
Common questions
- Can I reuse my existing underlay?
- Sometimes, but it is usually a false economy. If it is flattened, torn or more than a decade old, replace it.
- What underlay is best for stairs?
- A denser, firmer type rather than the thickest one. It holds its shape on the nosing.
- Do you stock underlay?
- Yes, at both warehouses, alongside gripper, trims and adhesives.
- What payment methods can I use?
- Cash, all major credit and debit cards, Amex and bank transfer.
- Can I get a real price rather than an estimate?
- Yes. Send your room sizes and we will quote against what is actually in stock. Quotes are free and no obligation, and we will beat any legitimate quote you already hold.