What is the best underlay for laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring in Chester and North Wales is popular due to its looks, durability and cost-effectiveness. However, using a suitable underlay is important to ensure that the floor lasts a long time. Without an underlay, laminate flooring can put pressure on the joints between planks and allow moisture from the subfloor to reach the planks. This can decrease the life of the floor.

Some laminate flooring comes with a built-in underlay, but for those without, it's important to choose a good-quality underlay. Interior design journalist Rachel Ogden advises that the type of underlay to install depends on several factors, including the type of room, budget and footfall.

For a guest room or attic with little footfall and no dampness, a basic, inexpensive foam underlay may be sufficient. If noise is an issue, choose a sound-dampening underlay that can prevent sounds from being heard in rooms below and reduce reflected sounds.

For busy living rooms, choose a good-quality wood-fibre underlay with insulating qualities that will help cut down heating bills. This type of underlay is effective at both adding insulation and deadening sounds. An underlay should have a rating for its sound and heat insulating efficiency.

For areas subject to dampness such as kitchens, use a damp protection underlay. A cushion underlay can smooth out small bumps and lumps, making the floor more level.

Some laminate manufacturers recommend specific underlays for their products. It's also worth getting expert advice from a laminate floor retailer and installer.