Underlay, often overlooked in home improvement projects, plays a crucial role in enhancing the comfort, longevity, and performance of various flooring types. Here are 20 facts about using underlay in the home:
- Sound Insulation
Underlay reduces noise transmission between floors, making it an excellent choice for multi-story homes or apartments. Note, however that underlay is designed to prevent thud noises as opposed to airbourne noise.
- Comfort Underfoot
It adds cushioning, providing a softer and more comfortable walking surface, especially on hard flooring like wood or laminate. Some have a higher density than others, meaning they are firmer underfoot. Whereas others have low density and good cushioning making them more comfortable to walk on.
- Thermal Insulation
Underlay can improve insulation, helping to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, which can lead to energy savings.
- Moisture Barrier
Some underlays come with moisture-resistant properties, preventing dampness from seeping into your flooring.
- Durability
Underlay can extend the life of your flooring, particularly on the stairs by absorbing impact and distributing stress more evenly, reducing wear and tear.
- Easier Installation
It provides a smooth and level surface, making it easier to install flooring materials like laminate or vinyl.
- Thickness Options
Underlays come in various thicknesses, allowing you to customize the level of cushioning and insulation to your preference. They mainly range from 9mm to 12mm thickness.
- Underfloor Heating
Underlay can be compatible with underfloor heating systems, enhancing their efficiency. It’s important to use a low tog underlay with underfloor heating.
- Reduced Allergens
Some underlays have anti-allergenic properties, preventing dust mites and other allergens from infiltrating your home.
- Easy Maintenance
It can make cleaning and maintaining your flooring easier by preventing dirt and debris from getting trapped in gaps.
- Noise Reduction
Underlay helps to reduce impact noise, such as footsteps, and airborne noise, like conversations, providing a quieter living environment.
- Versatility
It’s suitable for various flooring types, including carpets, laminate, engineered wood, and vinyl.
- Environmental Impact
Some underlay materials are eco-friendly and made with recycled materials to decrease carbon emissions and your environmental impact.
- Hypoallergenic Options:
Hypoallergenic underlays may provide relief if allergies are an issue; these underlays contain bacteria-resistant components to ward off mold and mildew growth.
- Easy Replacement:
Underlay can be replaced more easily than the flooring itself if it becomes damaged or worn out.
- Warranty Benefits:
Many flooring manufacturers require the use of specific underlay products to maintain warranty coverage.
- Health Benefits:
A well-chosen underlay can contribute to better posture and reduce the risk of joint and muscle strain.
- Cost-Effective:
Although this adds an initial cost of installation, it could save money long term by prolonging the lifespan of your flooring.
- Enhanced Resale Value
High-quality underlay can improve the overall quality and appeal of your home, potentially increasing its resale value.
- DIY Installation
In many cases, homeowners can install underlay themselves, saving on installation costs.
In summary, underlay is a versatile and often underestimated component in home improvement. As your underlay can have a dramatic impact on the comfort, insulation and durability of your flooring investment in any home, choosing an appropriate underlay can have significant advantages – be that increased comfort levels or longer lasting performance for an impressive return. It truly represents an invaluable purchase!
