Natural floor underlay & Synthetic floor underlay

This article looks at natural floor underlay as well as synthetic floor underlay from an eco perspective.

Natural underlay

Wool underlay

Made with 100% natural sheep's wool.
Absorbs odours, formaldehyde and VOC emissions.
Reduces noise from impact into rooms below.
Reduces sound transmission and echoes.
Provides a good insulating layer.
Suitable for use with hardwood floors, engineered timber floors and laminate.
Suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.
Wool fibres are biodegradable.
Around 21db sound reduction depending on manufacturer and subfloor.
Provides an excellent insulating & climate regulating layer.

Felt underlay

Suitable for use with carpets made from wool.
Suitable for residential and commercial use including heavy traffic areas e.g. hallways, stairs.
Reduces noise from impact into rooms below.
Reduces sound transmission and echoes.
A medium weight underlay.

Wood fibre underlay

Made from compressed wood fibres.
Look for underlay with 100% FSC certified wood fibres.
Reduces noise from impact into rooms below.
Reduces sound transmission and echoes.
Between 19db and 36db sound reduction depending on manufacturer and subfloor.
Provides a good insulating layer.
Excellent resistance to compression – up to 20tons/m2.
Suitable for use with hardwood floors, engineered timber floors and laminate.
Some types are suitable for use with underfloor heating.
Wood fibre is biodegradable.

Synthetic underlay

Recycled content

Made from recycled rubber from tires and some types of plastic bottles.
Suitable for use with carpets made from natural materials.
Underlay has to be fixed to carpet with adhesive (check with the manufacturer for any chemical content).
Up to 29db sound reduction depending on manufacturer and subfloor.

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