How Thick is Carpet Underlay Meant to Be?

How thick is carpet underlay supposed to be? If you’re in the market for a new carpet, this important question shouldn’t be ignored. Many consider underlaying as an afterthought. However, if you’re looking to enhance comfort and extend the life of your carpet, investing in the right underlay is crucial.

Generally speaking, it’s always best to go with a thicker underlay. However, there are a few different factors you’ll want to consider before settling on a thickness. Comfort, budget, and installation requirements all play a role.

Need some help selecting the right underlay thickness for a new or existing carpet. Our friends at Wood Flooring Ireland, an engineered wood flooring company, and Cavendish deVere’s have made a guide that breaks down all the information you need to know to make the right choice. 

How Thick is Carpet Underlay?

Carpet underlay can be purchased in a variety of thicknesses, however, most underlay options fall into one of a few categories. Thin underlay products tend to range from 6-9mm. Lightweight and inexpensive, a thinner underlay is almost always easier to install.

Admittedly, a thin underlay won’t provide much in the way of cushioned comfort. However, even a slight underlay can improve the appearance and overall feel of your carpet.

Looking for something thicker? Underlay of a medium thickness will help soundproof your rooms, while also acting as an effective insulator. Measuring around 10mm, they’re also incredibly durable. If you’re looking for a long-lasting solution for spaces like hallways, this is the way to go.

If you’re looking for maximum performance, a thick underlay is the best option. Best-in-class underlays have a thickness of around 12mm. They tend to be more expensive, but they offer unrivaled soundproofing and excellent insulation properties. Furthermore, you can count on superior levels of cushioning. 

Best Underlay Thickness for Living Rooms

How thick is carpet underlay supposed to be if you’re installing it in a living room? You’ll need to consider a few factors here. The average lounge experiences considerable foot traffic, meaning you’ll want something durable. However, living rooms are where we relax and unwind. As such, a thicker underlay that provides cushioned comfort is a must.

The same logic applies when choosing underlay for bedrooms. However, you’ll want to weigh up the cost benefits of installing a thicker underlay in bedrooms. The thicker the material, the more expensive it will be. It’s easier to justify the investment for a heavily-used living space, but it might not prove cost-effective in a large bedroom that you only use for sleeping. 

Best Underlay Thickness for Guest Bedrooms

In other areas of the home, you have a lot more flexibility when it comes to selecting carpet underlay. Looking to renovate a spare bedroom? Although you’ll want guests to feel comfortable during their stay, it’s not necessary to invest in a sumptuous underlay. How thick is a carpet underlay supposed to be in one of these rooms?

If you’re on a budget, an inexpensive thin underlay should prove more than sufficient. However, if you have a bit more money to play with, a carpet underlay with a medium thickness is something to consider.

Are you looking to recarpet a home office? You can cut costs on the refurbishment and choose a thin underlay, but a medium-thick material is a better long-term investment. If you work from home regularly, the comfort credentials of your carpet count. Furthermore, you’ll want an underlay that will extend the lifespan of your carpet if you’re using a home office every day of the week. 

Best Underlay Thickness for Staircases

Even if you’ve got a generous budget to work with, a thick underlay is always the best choice for a hallway. Why? Thick underlay isn’t particularly pliable, making it difficult to install in areas with awkward layouts. As such, it makes more sense to make some compromises when it comes to comfort.

An underlay of medium thickness allows for fuss-free installation and still delivers impressive levels of cushioning. Although it’s an inexpensive choice, the thin underlay should be avoided when carpeting staircases and spaces like hallways. As these areas of the home experience a lot of foot traffic, you’ll want an underlay that’s robust enough that it won’t need replacing after a few years. 

Is Carpet Underlay Compatible with Underfloor Heating?

It’s not just room function and layout that you need to consider when choosing carpet underlay. If your home is equipped with underfloor heating, you’ll want to choose carpet underlay that won’t impede its effectiveness.

How thick is carpet underlay supposed to be if you have underfloor heating? There are no hard and fast rules here. If your heating system is particularly powerful, you have more flexibility when it comes to carpet underlay.

Furthermore, there is a range of underlay products designed specifically for use with underfloor heating systems. These high-performance materials allow for optimal airflow, ensuring superior heat transfer levels. 

Looking to Invest in New Carpet Underlay?

Are you planning on restarting your interiors? Perhaps your current underlay leaves a lot to be desired, and your carpets could benefit from a replacement. Whatever renovation project you’ve got lined up, Cavendish deVere can help. Our expansive range is packed with premium flooring products, with everything from carpet tiles to made-to-measure rugs available.

Thinking of investing in a new carpet and wanting a quality underlay that will provide you with enhanced comfort and long-lasting durability? Speak to the team today. Email us your query at sales@cavendishdevere.com. Alternatively, call us on 020 8798 3011 to speak to the team directly.