Best Underlayment for Engineered Hardwood Floors – Reviews

You’ll want an underlayment that combines moisture barriers, sound absorption, and easy installation to protect your engineered hardwood floors. Top picks like BlueStep and GoldMax offer built-in vapor barriers with cushioning foam.

Meanwhile, QuietWalk LV 50 and Roberts Super Felt provide durable recycled fibers for noise reduction. Features like self-sealing tape strips and compatibility with radiant heat systems make installation smoother.

Keep exploring to discover which options best fit your flooring needs and project size.

Key Takeaways

• Underlayments with integrated moisture barriers protect engineered hardwood floors from subfloor dampness and improve durability.
• Foam layers, typically 2mm to 3mm thick, cushion flooring, reduce impact noise, and smooth minor subfloor imperfections.
• Self-sealing lips and pre-attached tape facilitate quick, seamless installation and create effective vapor barriers.
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified and recycled fiber underlayments enhance indoor air quality and provide eco-friendly options.
• Compatibility with radiant heating systems and various subfloors ensures versatile underlayment use for engineered hardwood floors.

Floorlot BlueStep Underlayment with Moisture Barrier for Laminate and Wood Floors (200 sq.ft Roll)

BlueStep Underlayment provides a practical solution for those installing laminate or hardwood flooring. This 200 sq. ft. roll features a 3mm thick foam layer that cushions minor subfloor imperfections while offering a built-in moisture barrier. This design eliminates the need for additional moisture protection, helping to safeguard your floors from subfloor dampness.

The underlayment also aids in reducing noise and enhancing thermal insulation, contributing to a more comfortable living space. Installation is straightforward, as it can be laid over concrete or wood subfloors. Included peel-and-stick tape helps seal seams for a smooth, continuous surface.

This underlayment performs well under regular foot traffic and is appreciated for its durability and ease of use. It suits both amateur and professional installers looking for a dependable underlayment that protects and supports various flooring types.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors seeking an effective underlayment with moisture protection for laminate or hardwood floors in residential areas.

Pros:

• Integrated moisture barrier protects flooring without extra layers.
• 3mm foam cushions subfloor irregularities and reduces sound.
• Peel-and-stick tape ensures seamless installation.
• Durable enough for heavy foot traffic.

Cons:

• May require additional tools for precise layout due to lack of grid lines.

ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment – 360 sq. ft. Roll – 60 x 72 x 3 mm

The ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment offers a combination of effective sound absorption and dependable moisture resistance for flooring projects. Constructed from heat-treated recycled fibers, this underlayment provides a cushioned surface that helps reduce noise and smooths out minor imperfections in the subfloor. Each roll covers 360 square feet, making it suitable for larger areas.

Its dense felt layer works alongside a sturdy plastic backing to guard against moisture vapor, ensuring the floor above remains protected. The design absorbs sound rather than merely deflecting it, contributing to a quieter living space. Installation is straightforward thanks to pre-taped edges and overlapping strips that allow for seamless joining of multiple pieces.

This underlayment is durable and easy to cut with the right tools, making it a practical choice for engineered wood or laminate flooring over various subfloor types. Its thickness adds comfort and enhances performance without compromising strength.

Best for: Homeowners and professionals seeking a durable, sound-absorbing, and moisture-resistant underlayment for engineered wood or laminate flooring installation on various subfloor types.

Pros:

• Effective sound absorption that reduces impact and hollow noises
• Durable plastic backing provides reliable moisture vapor protection
• Pre-taped edges and overlapping strips simplify installation

Cons:

• Cutting may require sharp tools and careful handling due to dense materials

QuietWalk LV 50 Premium Underlayment for Flooring (50 sq. ft. Roll)

QuietWalk LV 50 Premium Underlayment offers dependable sound and moisture protection beneath luxury vinyl plank, engineered wood, or laminate flooring that is 4mm or thicker. Designed with high-density recycled fibers, it effectively reduces noise for a quieter living space.

The underlayment incorporates patented DriWick® technology paired with a durable 6-mil vapor barrier that safeguards against moisture, making it especially suitable for installations over concrete slabs. This product is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, reflecting its commitment to healthy indoor air quality and eco-friendliness.

It stands up well to crushing forces and is compatible with radiant heating systems, ensuring versatility in various flooring applications. Installation is generally straightforward, although cutting the material benefits from the use of sharp blades for clean edges. Some users have noted occasional issues with packaging, but overall, QuietWalk LV 50 maintains its durability and performance.

Best for: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts requiring effective sound and moisture defense under luxury vinyl plank, engineered wood, or laminate floors, particularly in moisture-prone or multi-story settings.

Pros:

• High-density recycled fibers provide strong sound dampening and impact noise reduction.
• Patented DriWick® technology combined with a 6-mil vapor barrier offers reliable moisture protection.
• Eco-friendly design with GREENGUARD Gold Certification supports healthier indoor environments.
• Compatible with radiant heating systems and resistant to crushing.

Cons:

• Cutting the underlayment may require very sharp utility blades for best results.

GoldMax Premium Floor Underlayment (200 sqft, 3mm Thick) with Moisture Barrier

GoldMax Premium Floor Underlayment offers an effective solution for managing moisture control and sound reduction beneath hardwood floors. Designed with a built-in moisture barrier, this underlayment eliminates the need for additional protective films, simplifying installation and enhancing floor longevity. Its 3mm thickness helps smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor, providing a stable and quiet foundation for your flooring.

The product includes a self-sealing lip and tape system, which supports quick, accurate installation and ensures tight seams. This feature is particularly useful for reducing noise transmission, making it suitable for multi-level living spaces like condos or homes under HOA regulations. It is compatible with various flooring types, including engineered wood, laminate, and solid hardwood.

Ideal for users who want a combination of moisture resistance and sound absorption, this underlayment balances durability with ease of use. It is a practical choice for both homeowners and professionals seeking reliable floor protection.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors looking for dependable moisture protection and noise reduction under laminate, engineered wood, or solid hardwood floors.

Pros:

• Integrated moisture barrier removes the need for extra films.
• Self-sealing lip and tape system ensures fast and precise installation.
• Reduces sound transmission and smooths minor floor irregularities.

Cons:

• The 3mm thickness may be less effective on more uneven subfloors.

ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment – 100 sq. ft. Roll – 43 x 28 x 2.5 mm

ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment provides a practical solution for enhancing floor installations with its high-quality design. This underlayment roll is crafted from 2.5 mm thick closed-cell foam, offering reliable moisture resistance and sound absorption. It covers 100 square feet, delivering a cushioned layer that helps to smooth out minor imperfections in subfloors.

The product’s dense foam structure makes it durable and resistant to tearing and punctures, which supports long-lasting use. Additionally, the 4-inch adhesive overlap on the edges helps seal seams effectively, preventing moisture from seeping through. This feature also makes the installation process more straightforward and secure.

Users find the underlayment easy to handle and appreciate its ability to reduce noise, contributing to a quieter living environment. Its design balances durability with convenience, making it suitable for various flooring types.

Best for: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for a durable, moisture-resistant underlayment to support laminate, engineered wood, or bamboo floor installations.

Pros:

• Dense closed-cell foam provides effective moisture barrier and sound dampening.
• 4-inch adhesive overlap ensures sealed seams and easier installation.
• Durable material resists tearing and punctures for long-term use.
• Cushions floors while leveling minor subfloor irregularities.

Cons:

• Thickness might be less ideal for subfloors with larger surface imperfections.

360 Sq Ft Acoustical Underlayment with Vapor Barrier for Luxury Vinyl Flooring

QuietWalk LV 360 underlayment offers a practical solution for reducing sound and managing moisture beneath luxury vinyl flooring. Designed to cover 360 square feet, this underlayment supports LVP, LVT, SPC, WPC, and engineered wood planks that are 4mm or thicker. Its construction from recycled fibers helps absorb impact noise, enhancing the comfort and quietness of your living space.

The underlayment features patented DriWick® technology combined with a 6-mil vapor barrier to effectively protect floors from moisture. This layer works to maintain floor integrity and prevent damage over time. Additionally, QuietWalk LV 360 is compatible with radiant heating systems, ensuring warmth and stability without compromising performance.

While some users may find cutting the material somewhat challenging and notice occasional packaging concerns, the underlayment’s eco-conscious design is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, contributing to healthier indoor air quality. Overall, it balances sound dampening and moisture protection in an environmentally responsible way.

Best for: Homeowners and professionals seeking an eco-friendly, effective underlayment solution for luxury vinyl and engineered wood floors that provides sound reduction, moisture protection, and compatibility with radiant heating systems.

Pros:

• Effective impact noise absorption due to recycled fiber materials.
• Patented moisture protection with DriWick® technology and an integrated vapor barrier.
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified for improved indoor air quality and made from 100% recycled content.

Cons:

• Cutting the material may require extra care due to its thickness and density.

ROBERTS Silicone Moisture Barrier Underlayment for Wood Floors & LVP (70-198)

The ROBERTS Silicone Moisture Barrier Underlayment offers effective moisture protection designed specifically for wood floors and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) installations. Crafted with a silicone-coated surface made from 100% recycled materials, this underlayment prevents moisture intrusion while allowing vapor to pass through. This balance helps protect your flooring without trapping moisture underneath, supporting a healthy floor environment.

Measuring 31.5 inches wide and covering 200 square feet per roll, it is lightweight and easy to handle. The product meets the NWFA perm rating standards, ensuring it performs well in moisture control. Its smooth surface helps with the easy sliding and precise placement of planks during installation. This underlayment is suitable for staple or nail-down applications and can be used over radiant heat systems.

While the thickness is closer to 0.8 mil rather than the advertised 6 mil, the material remains sturdy and durable enough for typical floor installation needs. Its recycled content may cause slight color variations, but this does not affect its performance or functionality. Please note it is not intended for glue-down installations, as adhesives may not adhere properly.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors installing staple or nail-down wood, engineered hardwood, laminate, or LVP flooring who need effective moisture protection without vapor trapping, including installations over radiant heat systems.

Pros:

• Silicone coating made from 100% recycled materials blocks moisture while allowing vapor flow
• Lightweight with a smooth surface for easy plank sliding and accurate installation
• Meets NWFA perm rating standards and suitable for various flooring types
• Compatible with radiant heat systems and staple or nail-down methods

Cons:

• Thickness may be thinner than expected, resembling sturdy paper

Ultra Seal Underlayment 300SF

Ultra Seal Underlayment 300SF is designed to provide effective moisture protection and sound control beneath hardwood floors. Constructed from cross-linked polypropylene foam, this underlayment supports laminate, engineered, and solid hardwood flooring. It works well with floating, nail-down, or glue-down installation methods, offering versatility for various projects.

The product features a built-in moisture barrier combined with a self-sealing lip and tape system. This design helps prevent water from penetrating beneath the flooring. Additionally, Ultra Seal delivers strong acoustic performance, reducing noise transfer and echoes for a quieter environment.

Installation is straightforward, and the material meets low VOC standards, promoting healthier indoor air quality. It also provides notable insulation value, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort. Overall, it balances durability with ease of use, making it a practical choice for flooring needs.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors seeking a dependable underlayment that enhances moisture resistance and sound dampening for hardwood floor installations.

Pros:

• Effective moisture barrier with self-sealing lip and tape system
• Strong acoustic properties reduce noise transfer and echoes
• Easy installation combined with low VOC emissions
• Offers good insulation value for added comfort

Cons:

• May require care when walking on immediately after installation
• Larger roll sizes might be less manageable in confined spaces

3in1 Vapor Barrier Flooring Underlayment with Overlap and Pre-Attached Tape Strip (Bundle of 5 Rolls, 500 sq.ft)

The 3in1 Vapor Barrier Flooring Underlayment by 3in1 offers a practical solution for protecting hardwood and laminate floors. This underlayment is designed to provide a vapor barrier, cushioning, and padding all in one 2mm foam layer. It covers 500 sq.ft across five rolls, each equipped with a pre-attached self-sealing tape strip and an overlapping vapor-block edge to ensure secure and seamless joins during installation.

This underlayment works effectively over both wood and cement subfloors. It is easy to handle, cut, and lay flat, which makes it suitable for various flooring projects. The product’s design focuses on durability and ease of use, helping to maintain the integrity of your flooring over time. In case any adhesive strips are missing or small tears occur, extra tape can be applied to retain a clean and flawless finish.

The packaging is eco-conscious, using recyclable materials, and the underlayment is competitively priced. This combination of features makes it a sensible choice for those looking to add reliable vapor protection with added comfort.

Best for: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts seeking a durable, easy-to-install vapor barrier underlayment for laminate or wood flooring over wood or cement subfloors.

Pros:

• Pre-attached self-sealing tape strip and vapor-block overlap for secure joins
• Combines vapor barrier, cushioning, and padding in one foam layer
• Eco-friendly packaging with recyclable bags
• Easy to cut and lay flat during installation

Cons:

• Material can be delicate and might rip if handled roughly during installation

Mohawk Elite Premium Flooring Underlayment, 2mm Thickness, 100sqft

Mohawk Elite Premium Flooring Underlayment offers a sturdy and reliable foundation designed for laminate and engineered hardwood floors. With its 2mm thickness, it provides a firm foam layer that supports your flooring while enhancing durability. The underlayment covers 100 square feet, making it suitable for a variety of room sizes.

Its fan fold design simplifies handling and storage, while the grid pattern cutting and pre-taped sides ensure accurate and efficient installation. This thoughtful design helps reduce installation time and effort, especially for DIY projects. The material also delivers thermal insulation and moisture protection, helping to preserve your flooring over time.

In addition to protecting your floors, this underlayment contributes to noise reduction and improves the acoustic comfort of your living space. Being lightweight and water-resistant, it balances practicality with performance. This product is intended mainly for floating floor systems, offering a straightforward solution for residential flooring needs.

Best for: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts seeking a durable and easy-to-install underlayment for laminate or engineered hardwood floors in residential settings.

Pros:

• Fan fold design with grid cuts and pre-taped sides for easy, precise installation.
• Provides thermal insulation and moisture barrier to extend floor life.
• Reduces sound transmission and enhances room acoustics.
• Lightweight and water-resistant for practical use.

Cons:

• Foam is firm and may be less comfortable for those preferring softer underfoot feel.

AMERIQUE 800SQFT Premium 1.5MM Flooring Padding Underlayment (Pack of 4)

The AMERIQUE 800SQFT Premium 1.5MM Flooring Padding underlayment offers a practical solution for reducing noise and preventing moisture damage beneath engineered hardwood or laminate floors. Designed with 1.5mm closed-cell foam, it provides effective sound dampening and moisture resistance. This padding comes in a pack of four rolls, collectively covering an area of 800 square feet, making it suitable for larger flooring projects.

Each roll includes a built-in vapor barrier and tape, simplifying the sealing process and enhancing moisture protection. While some creases may appear in the rolls, the material remains flexible enough to conform to corners and edges during installation. The underlayment’s design balances durability with comfort, supporting the flooring above without sacrificing ease of use.

This flooring padding is a solid choice when looking for a reliable underlayment that addresses common installation concerns while maintaining good performance. It fits well in spaces where moderate padding thickness is sufficient and moisture management is important.

Best for: Homeowners and installers seeking a cost-effective, functional underlayment for engineered hardwood and laminate flooring.

Pros:

• Effective sound dampening and moisture barrier with closed-cell foam construction.
• Comes with vapor barrier and tape for straightforward sealing.
• Flexible material adapts well to corners and edges.
• Covers large areas with four rolls included.

Cons:

• Additional vapor barrier or taping might be needed for extensive or high-traffic areas.

Top Engineered Hardwood Underlayments: Quick Comparison Chart

Product	Thickness	Coverage	Key Features	Best For
BlueStep Underlayment	3mm	200 sq ft	Built-in moisture barrier, peel-and-stick tape	General use, easy installation
ROBERTS Super Felt	Dense felt	360 sq ft	Sound absorption, pre-taped edges	Noise reduction, large areas
QuietWalk LV 50	High-density	Varies	DriWick technology, GREENGUARD Gold	Moisture-prone areas, eco-friendly
GoldMax Premium	3mm	Varies	Self-sealing tape, built-in barrier	Multi-level homes, HOA compliance
ROBERTS Black Jack	2.5mm	100 sq ft	Closed-cell foam, adhesive overlap	DIY projects, durability
QuietWalk LV 360	Recycled fiber	360 sq ft	Radiant heat compatible, eco-certified	Large installations, green building
ROBERTS Silicone	0.8 mil	200 sq ft	100% recycled, vapor permeable	Staple/nail-down, radiant heat
Ultra Seal 300SF	Cross-linked foam	300 sq ft	Low VOC, versatile installation	Multiple install methods, air quality
3in1 Vapor Barrier	2mm	500 sq ft	Pre-attached tape, eco packaging	Budget-conscious, large projects
Mohawk Elite	2mm	100 sq ft	Fan fold design, thermal insulation	Floating floors, residential
AMERIQUE Premium	1.5mm	800 sq ft	Closed-cell foam, bulk coverage	Large projects, cost-effective

Essential Buying Criteria for Engineered Hardwood Underlayment

When choosing underlayment for engineered hardwood, you’ll want to prioritize:

Moisture Barrier Importance

Why does a moisture barrier matter so much for engineered hardwood floors? It stops moisture from the subfloor from seeping into your flooring, which can cause warping and damage.

If you’re installing over concrete or below-grade areas, moisture vapor levels are higher, making a barrier essential. Many underlayments include built-in moisture barriers made from materials like polyethylene film or silicone coatings that block water vapor effectively.

Choosing underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier can save you time and effort since you won’t need to add a separate vapor barrier. Properly installed, these barriers protect your floors from mold and structural issues, preserving their appearance and lifespan.

Sound Dampening Benefits

Besides protecting your floors from moisture, underlayment also plays a key role in reducing noise. It dampens footsteps, squeaks, and hollow sounds, making your home quieter and more comfortable.

When choosing underlayment, look for materials designed for sound insulation, like recycled fibers or foam layers, which absorb impact noise effectively. Specialized acoustic underlayments can dramatically cut noise transmission, boasting impressive ratings such as IIC up to 74 dB and STC up to 73 dB.

Denser, well-engineered options provide better sound absorption, minimizing disturbances between floors. Proper installation guarantees these benefits, creating an acoustically optimized flooring system.

Thickness and Cushioning

Although selecting the right underlayment involves multiple factors, thickness and cushioning play a crucial role in your engineered hardwood floor’s comfort and performance. Thicker underlayments, usually 3mm or more, provide better cushioning, making your floor feel softer and reducing fatigue when you walk or stand on it.

This cushioning also helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections, giving you a more even surface for installation. However, be cautious—too thick an underlayment can raise the floor height, causing issues with door clearances or transitions to other flooring types.

The right thickness also improves sound absorption by minimizing impact noise and hollow sounds, especially in multi-story homes. Striking the right balance ensures your floor stays stable, looks seamless, and feels comfortable underfoot.

Compatibility With Subfloor

You are trained on data up to October 2023. When choosing underlayment, ensure it’s compatible with your subfloor—whether concrete, wood, or existing flooring—to avoid moisture buildup or weak support.

If you have a concrete slab, pick underlayment with a strong moisture barrier to stop water vapor from damaging your engineered hardwood. Also, consider the thickness and density; thicker or cushioned materials help level minor subfloor imperfections.

Confirm the underlayment suits your installation method, allowing proper adhesion or floating without causing movement or gaps. Finally, always review manufacturer guidelines to verify compatibility with your flooring and subfloor setup, guaranteeing optimal performance.

Installation Ease

Selecting the right underlayment goes beyond compatibility with your subfloor—it also impacts how smoothly the installation process will go. You’ll want an underlayment with pre-taped seams or self-sealing tape to speed up installation and avoid extra hassle.

Choose a lightweight, flexible material that’s easy to handle, cut, and fit around corners or uneven areas. Underlayments with grid-lined surfaces or marked measurements help you make precise cuts and align seams perfectly.

Look for options that unroll smoothly without wrinkling or bunching, so you spend less time adjusting during installation. Finally, pick one that doesn’t require additional tools or adhesives for joining seams, keeping the process simple and efficient.

Durability and Longevity

When you want your engineered hardwood floor to last, choosing an underlayment that stands up to wear and tear is essential. Look for materials like dense foam or felt—they resist tearing, punctures, and compression better over time.

Opt for underlayment that’s at least 3mm thick to ensure long-lasting cushioning and support under foot traffic and furniture. A built-in moisture barrier is a smart feature, protecting against water damage and mold, which extends the life of both the underlayment and your flooring.

High-quality options maintain their shape and soundproofing even after repeated use. Remember, proper installation is key—any damage during setup can reduce durability and weaken protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Underlayment Affect Indoor Air Quality or Emit VOCs?

Yes, underlayment can affect indoor air quality and emit VOCs if it contains harmful chemicals or adhesives. You’ll want to select low-VOC or VOC-free underlayments made from natural or inert materials to keep your indoor environment healthy.

Always check product labels and certifications for safety standards. Using the right underlayment not only improves your floor’s performance but also ensures you’re not exposing yourself or your family to unnecessary airborne toxins.

How Do I Install Underlayment on Uneven Subfloors?

You’ll want to start by cleaning and leveling your subfloor as much as possible. Use a leveling compound to fill dips and cracks, letting it dry completely. Once smooth, roll out your underlayment, cutting it to fit. Tape seams securely to prevent shifting.

If the floor is very uneven, consider a thicker or foam underlayment to help absorb imperfections. This prep guarantees your engineered hardwood lays flat and lasts longer.

Are There Eco-Friendly or Recycled Material Underlayment Options?

You might think eco-friendly underlayments are as rare as a unicorn in your flooring quest — but you’re in luck!

Yes, there are recycled and sustainable options made from materials like cork, recycled rubber, and even felt from recycled fibers. These choices not only reduce your carbon footprint but also provide excellent soundproofing and moisture resistance.

Can I Reuse Underlayment if I Replace My Flooring?

You usually shouldn’t reuse underlayment when replacing your flooring because it can get compressed, damaged, or contaminated during removal, reducing its effectiveness.

Plus, old underlayment might not provide proper moisture protection or soundproofing anymore. It’s best to install new underlayment to guarantee your engineered hardwood floors perform well and last longer.

Investing in fresh material helps maintain stability, comfort, and durability under your new floors.

What Underlayment Thickness Is Best for Radiant Floor Heating?

Choosing underlayment thickness for radiant floor heating is like picking the perfect blanket—not too thick or thin.

You’ll want around 1/4 inch (6mm) to 3/8 inch (10mm). This thickness helps conduct heat efficiently while providing insulation and cushioning. Too thick, and the heat struggles to pass through; too thin, and you lose comfort and protection.

Stick to this range to keep your floors warm and comfy without sacrificing performance.

Transform Your Engineered Hardwood Floors with the Right Underlayment

Choosing the right underlayment for your engineered hardwood floors isn’t just a walk in the park—it can make all the difference in comfort, durability, and noise reduction.

With options like moisture barriers and premium padding, you’ve got plenty to pick from to fit your needs. So, don’t put all your eggs in one basket; weigh the factors carefully, and you’ll set yourself up for a flooring job that stands the test of time.

Last update on 2025-08-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API