Which is the best underlay for your new carpet?

If you are thinking of replacing a carpet, don’t forget that you will also need a suitable underlay. Underlay is often an afterthought but it is important to do your research to ensure you get the best match for your needs. The right underlay can make a dramatic difference to the durability of your carpet; what’s more, it can muffle noise and even help to keep your home warm in the winter. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular types of underlay.

PU foam underlay

This is an excellent choice for many homes and is often a great eco-friendly choice because it is frequently made from recycled materials. You will find PU foam in a variety of thicknesses and at a wide range of price points, which makes it great for both people on a budget and those who want a more luxurious finish. Thicker PU foam is an excellent insulator against both sound and cold. If conserving energy is a major concern for you, choose a thicker underlay to keep the cold out and the warmth in. PU foam is also soft underfoot, which is perfect if you like to sink into your carpet! On the negative side, it can flatten over time and won’t spring back as easily as some other underlays.

Rubber underlay

Although less soft than PU foam, rubber also adds some spring underfoot. Beware of very cheap rubber underlays, however, as these can start to fall apart after a few years. It is possible to buy recycled rubber underlay to boost your eco-credentials, with many manufacturers now focussing heavily on more environmentally-friendly products. Rubber underlay can recover better from heavy furniture marks than other underlays and is a smart choice for soundproofing if this is a concern in your home.

Felt underlay

This is the most traditional option on our list and is still popular amongst homeowners. Felt underlay provides excellent insulation, making it perfect for colder or draughty homes. It is available at a wide range of price points, but expect to pay more for premium varieties. Like the other underlays we have mentioned, it is often made from recycled materials and is a good eco-friendly option. As with rubber, it can recover pretty well from marks left by furniture. It doesn’t feel as soft underfoot as PU foam, so might not be the best choice if you want a really luxurious finish.