19 Oct 2023

Choosing the Right Carpet Underlay

Choosing the Right Carpet Underlay: A Guide on Thickness, HD Underlays, and Soft Underlays

Selecting the perfect carpet for your home involves much more than just choosing a style and color that suits your décor. One essential element that is often overlooked is the carpet underlay. This is the layer that lies between your carpet and the subfloor, playing a crucial role in the comfort, durability, and overall performance of your carpet.

There are several types of carpet underlays available in the market, each with its unique characteristics. Let’s dive into some of the most common ones and the factors you should consider when selecting the right underlay for your carpet.

Firstly, the thickness of the underlay is a vital consideration. Thicker underlays provide better cushioning, making your carpet feel softer underfoot. They also offer improved sound insulation. However, an underlay that is too thick can cause the carpet to move around, leading to premature wear and tear. As a general rule, an 8mm to 10mm thick underlay is suitable for most domestic settings.

High-Density (HD) underlays are another popular choice. These underlays are compact and firm, providing excellent support for areas with high foot traffic like hallways or living rooms. HD underlays help prolong the life of your carpet by reducing pile compression and wear.

On the other hand, soft underlays offer a luxurious, cushiony feel underfoot, making them perfect for bedrooms or other low-traffic areas where comfort is paramount. They also provide good thermal insulation, helping keep your home warm in the winter. It’s important to note that Choosing the Right Carpet Underlay for your carpet depends on various factors such as the type of carpet, the subfloor, and the room’s usage. 

In conclusion, a good quality underlay can significantly enhance your carpet’s performance and lifespan. By considering factors like thickness, density, and softness, you can select the perfect underlay that complements your carpet and meets your specific needs.

You can check out all of our floors and underlays on our website here.