Glossary term
Underlay
Also known as: padding
Definition
A cushioning layer fitted under carpet or a floating floor that adds comfort, warmth and sound insulation and can help the floor covering wear more evenly.
Underlay sits between the subfloor and the floor covering. Under carpet it adds softness underfoot, improves insulation and helps the carpet last. Under laminate and LVT it cushions the floating floor, reduces noise and — over concrete — can include a moisture barrier.
The right underlay depends on the floor covering and the subfloor. The wrong underlay, or none, can shorten the life of the floor and affect how it feels.
What to check
- That the underlay suits your specific floor covering
- Whether a damp-proof membrane is needed over concrete
- The tog rating if warmth or underfloor heating is a factor