A well-chosen underlay is the most effective way to soundproof your floor, whether in a house or apartment. The right underlay not only reduces noise but also improves the durability and comfort of your laminate or vinyl panels.
When looking for an underlay with excellent soundproofing, pay attention to two main parameters:
RWS measures how much footstep noise is reflected within the room. The higher the RWS value, the less noticeable the impact sounds in the living space. This is crucial if you want a quiet, peaceful interior.
IS measures how well sounds are insulated below the floor, like footsteps or objects dropping. High IS is especially important in apartments, lofts, or attic spaces, where noise can travel to rooms underneath.
Excellent acoustic insulation
Compatible with underfloor heating
High resistance to moisture diffusion
Example: IDEAL PROFI 2.0 – RWS ≤ 26%, made with 93% natural materials and polyurethane binders
Polystyrene underlays are perfect if your main goal is quiet, comfortable floors that last for years.
Affordable and widely available
Lower acoustic insulation compared to polystyrene (RWS ≤ 16%)
Suitable for low-traffic rooms or budget-conscious projects
Other variants exist for vinyl floors, with thickness around 1.4mm, or water-resistant underlays like Alu Aqua 3in1, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Natural material with excellent sound absorption
Works with underfloor heating
Expensive, and some flooring manufacturers do not officially recommend it
Cork underlay is great for high-end installations where natural materials and optimal soundproofing are priorities.
When choosing an underlay, consider additional parameters beyond soundproofing:
Subfloor compensation – smooths minor unevenness
Moisture protection – prevents damage to panels
Thermal resistance (R-value) – important for heated floors
Impact and compression resistance – ensures durability over time
Tip: Always look for underlays with the B construction mark, guaranteeing compliance with safety and quality standards.
High-quality underlay is the foundation of a quiet, durable floor. It enhances the full potential of your laminate or vinyl panels, giving long-term satisfaction.
For maximum comfort, choose an underlay that:
Offers excellent RWS and IS values
Compensates for floor irregularities
Provides moisture and thermal protection
Matches your flooring type – laminate, vinyl, or engineered panels
With the right underlay, your floors will be quiet, comfortable, and durable, perfect for modern homes and apartments.
