Optimal Carpet Underlay for a Comfortable Foot Feel: A Guide
A carpet underlay is an essential component in ensuring your carpet lasts longer and feels more comfortable underfoot. The choice of underlay depends on various factors, including the type of flooring, the room's usage, soundproofing needs, draught proofing needs, and the presence of underfloor heating.
Sponge rubber underlays, in service since the 1950s, offer good support and are ideal for high-traffic areas. Their tiny air pockets make vacuuming easier, and they provide a cushioned feel that enhances comfort.
On the other hand, recycled PU foam underlays are popular for their excellent cushioning and insulation properties. Made from recycled foam or offcuts, these underlays are more lightweight than traditional crumb rubber underlays.
Underlays come in various thicknesses and densities, typically ranging from 8mm to 12mm. Thicker underlays are better for areas with heavy foot traffic due to their enhanced durability and comfort.
The most recommended carpet underlays vary by room type. For living rooms and children's rooms, anti-slip mats like the flex it Classic Comfort provide safety and stability. Hallways and dining rooms benefit from robust flat-weave natural fiber runners such as sisal. Soft wool carpets with cushioned underlays add comfort to bedrooms or living areas. In the kitchen, durable runners protect floors and offer warmth.
Underlays made of sustainable, non-toxic, and washable materials with good grip are best suited for most residential areas. For those looking to soundproof a bedroom, acoustic underlays, which are thicker and designed to dull impact noises such as footsteps, could be a good choice.
Crumb rubber underlays are extremely durable and dense, helping with soundproofing and preventing heavy furniture from leaving indentations in the carpet. However, they are best reserved for areas of very high traffic, such as staircases.
The thermal effectiveness of an underlay is measured by its tog rating, and to be classed as a thermal underlay, a product should have a tog rating of at least 2.5.
A good quality underlay makes carpets feel softer and more luxurious underfoot, extends their life by reducing wear and tear, and acts as a barrier to prevent heat loss.
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