Best Underlayments for Laminate Flooring on Concrete

You’ll want an underlayment that blocks moisture, absorbs sound, and cushions your laminate flooring on concrete. Products like BlueStep and ROBERTS Super Felt offer built-in moisture barriers and durability, while QuietWalk and PolyFoam provide excellent soundproofing and thermal insulation.

Look for easy installation features like self-sealing seams and vapor barriers, ensuring long-lasting protection and comfort. If you keep exploring, you’ll find the top options tailored to your flooring needs and budget for 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Choose underlayments with built-in moisture barriers like BlueStep or GoldMax Premium for effective vapor protection on concrete subfloors.
• Opt for products with soundproofing features such as ROBERTS Super Felt or GoldMax to reduce impact and airborne noise in multi-unit buildings.
• Ensure the underlayment thickness is at least 3mm for cushioning, thermal insulation, and subfloor imperfection masking without affecting door clearance.
• Select eco-friendly, durable materials with certifications like GREENGUARD Gold.
• Favor easy-install options with self-sealing seams, adhesive strips, and printed grid lines for precise, quick setup over concrete floors.

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

The BlueStep Underlayment with Moisture Barrier is designed for laminate and wood flooring applications. It features a built-in moisture barrier that protects your floors from subfloor dampness without needing extra layers. This underlayment is 3mm thick and rolls out smoothly over 200 square feet, making installation straightforward.

Its cushioned foam layer helps reduce noise and soften minor imperfections in the subfloor. The product is lightweight, which makes handling and laying it down easier. Seams are simply taped to secure the underlayment in place, promoting a stable and comfortable floor surface.

This underlayment also improves thermal insulation, adding comfort underfoot. It is suitable for use with laminate, engineered wood, or solid hardwood floors, providing reliable moisture protection and sound absorption.

Best for: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-install underlayment with integrated moisture protection for laminate or wood floor systems.

Pros:

• Integrated moisture barrier removes need for separate moisture films.
• Cushions minor subfloor irregularities and reduces noise.
• Lightweight and easy to install with included seam tape.
• Covers 200 sq.ft per roll for convenient application.

Cons:

• Coverage may require multiple rolls for larger spaces.

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

The ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment offers a reliable solution for cushioning and moisture protection beneath your floors. This 360 sq. ft. roll measures 60″ wide by 72′ long and is 3 mm thick, providing consistent coverage for various subfloor types.

Made from recycled fibers, the material is heat-treated to enhance strength and durability. It includes a moisture-resistant film overlay, which helps guard against moisture vapor that can damage flooring.

The felt layer absorbs sound effectively, adding comfort under engineered wood or laminate floors. It also helps correct minor imperfections in concrete or wood subfloors for a smoother installation surface.

Installation is straightforward with adhesive strips and overlapping edges, ensuring a tight fit without gaps. This underlayment balances functionality with ease of use for a professional finish.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors seeking a durable, moisture-resistant underlayment to improve sound absorption and subfloor correction for laminate or engineered wood flooring.

Pros:

• Constructed from recycled fibers with heat-treated durability and moisture protection.
• Sound-absorbing felt cushion enhances comfort underfoot.
• Simple installation using adhesive strips and overlapping edges.

Cons:

• Thickness may vary slightly, which could affect fit in some cases.

QuietWalk Underlayment 100 sq ft, 3 mm Thick, Sound & Moisture Barrier for Laminate & Hardwood Floors

QuietWalk Underlayment offers a 3 mm thick sound and moisture barrier designed for laminate and hardwood floors. This underlayment covers 100 sq ft, making it a practical choice for medium-sized rooms. Its Dri-Wick moisture barrier technology helps protect floors from dampness while reducing noise effectively.

The product supports floating floor installations and works seamlessly with pre-attached floor pads. It is compatible with laminate, hardwood, and luxury vinyl floors when paired with QuietWalk LV. The underlayment’s crush-resistant fiber construction also provides thermal insulation and supports QuietWarmth radiant heat systems.

Made in the USA from recycled materials, QuietWalk Underlayment is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, ensuring low chemical emissions for healthier indoor air quality. Installation is straightforward thanks to its lip and taping system, which helps create a secure and continuous barrier.

Best for: Homeowners seeking an easy-to-install underlayment that reduces noise, protects against moisture, and supports floating laminate or hardwood floors in medium-sized spaces.

Pros:

• Effective sound absorption and moisture protection with Dri-Wick technology
• Compatible with radiant heat systems and pre-attached floor pads
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified and made from recycled materials

Cons:

• May be suitable only for floating floor installations, not for glue-down or nail-down floors

PolyFoam Multipurpose Foam Underlayment for Laminate & Wood Flooring (100 sq ft Roll)

PolyFoam Multipurpose Foam Underlayment is designed for laminate and engineered wood flooring installations. It rolls out smoothly over concrete or wood subfloors, providing a stable base. Made from hypoallergenic polyethylene, it cuts easily for a precise fit.

This foam underlayment cushions your floors, reducing impact and noise. It also offers thermal insulation, helping maintain comfortable room temperatures. PolyFoam helps bridge minor subfloor imperfections, promoting a smoother finish.

The material resists moisture and decay, which helps protect your flooring over time. It is lightweight yet durable, suitable for floating floor installations above or below grade when paired with a moisture barrier. This underlayment supports long-lasting, quieter floors.

Best for: DIY homeowners and installers seeking an easy-to-use, durable underlayment for laminate or engineered wood floors over concrete or wood subfloors.

Pros:

• Provides cushioning, thermal insulation, and sound reduction.
• Resists moisture and decay for extended floor life.
• Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and easy to cut and install.

Cons:

• May require an additional moisture barrier for below-grade use.

3in1 Vapor Barrier Flooring Underlayment (5 Rolls, 500 sq.ft.)

The 3in1 Vapor Barrier Flooring Underlayment offers a practical solution for protecting your floors. It combines a vapor barrier with sound insulation and an easy installation design. This underlayment is made from 2mm thick foam, which helps reduce moisture and noise effectively.

Each set includes five rolls, covering a total of 500 sq. ft., making it ideal for medium-sized projects. The product features pre-attached self-sealing tape and vapor block overlap, simplifying the installation process. It works well on both wood and concrete subfloors.

This underlayment also provides some thermal insulation, contributing to a more comfortable indoor environment. Its lightweight and eco-friendly construction come in recyclable packaging, supporting sustainable choices. The design focuses on convenience and functional performance for flooring needs.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors looking for a combined vapor barrier and sound insulation underlayment that is easy to install on wood or concrete subfloors.

Pros:

• Integrates vapor barrier, underlayment, and self-sealing tape for straightforward installation
• Effectively reduces moisture and noise
• Provides additional insulation
• Eco-friendly with recyclable packaging

Cons:

• Thickness of 2mm might offer less cushioning compared to thicker options
• Coverage limited to 500 sq. ft. per bundle, which could require multiple rolls for larger areas

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

GoldMax Premium Floor Underlayment offers a reliable solution for moisture protection and sound absorption. This 3mm thick underlayment comes in a 200 sqft roll and includes a built-in moisture barrier. This feature helps prevent moisture damage without the need for extra films.

The underlayment reduces impact noise and hollow sounds, with ratings for IIC and STC. It is designed to enhance comfort and quietness, making it suitable for multi-unit buildings. Installation is straightforward, featuring a self-sealing lip and tape system.

Printed grid lines support accurate cutting for a precise fit. GoldMax underlayment is compatible with laminate, engineered wood, and hardwood floating floors. Its durable design is suitable for both residential and commercial applications.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors looking for a high-quality underlayment that provides moisture resistance and noise reduction for floating floors.

Pros:

• Built-in moisture barrier removes the need for additional moisture films.
• Effective sound absorption with IIC and STC ratings for noise-sensitive areas.
• Easy installation with self-sealing lip, tape system, and printed grid lines.

Cons:

• May be limited to floating floor installations only.
• Thickness might not fully address severe subfloor irregularities.

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

ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment is a 2.5 mm thick closed cell foam designed for flooring projects. It covers 100 sq. ft. in a single roll, providing a reliable base for laminate, bamboo, or engineered wood floors. The foam acts as a moisture vapor barrier, protecting your subfloor from dampness.

This underlayment also reduces sound and adds cushioning, improving floor comfort. The roll includes an overlap and adhesive strip, which helps seal seams tightly for a smooth finish. It can smooth minor subfloor imperfections, enhancing the overall floor installation.

Installation is straightforward, making it suitable for DIYers and professionals alike. This product is best used under floated flooring systems and is not intended for direct glue-down installations. Its lightweight design makes handling easier without compromising durability.

Best for: Homeowners and DIYers seeking a moisture-resistant, sound-absorbing underlayment for laminate, bamboo, or engineered wood floors.

Pros:

• Effective moisture vapor barrier with closed cell foam.
• Overlap and adhesive strip for seamless installation.
• Provides cushioning and sound reduction.
• Easy to install and handle.

Cons:

• Thickness may be insufficient for significant subfloor leveling.
• Roll width might require multiple seams in larger areas.

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

The 360 Sq Ft Acoustical Underlayment with Vapor Barrier is designed for luxury vinyl flooring installations. It offers effective sound reduction and moisture protection in one product. The underlayment works well with floors that are 4mm or thicker, including LVP, LVT, SPC, and laminate.

This underlayment features patented DriWick technology that helps wick away moisture. Its built-in 6-mil vapor barrier adds an extra layer of protection against damage. The dense recycled fiber construction also reduces noise and resists compression under heavy use.

Ideal for use with floating, glue-down, or nail-down floors, it supports radiant heat systems for added comfort. The product is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, VOC-free, and made in the USA, reflecting high standards of durability and environmental responsibility.

Best for: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts seeking reliable underlayment that provides sound control and moisture defense for luxury vinyl and similar flooring types.

Pros:

• High-performance recycled fibers reduce sound and impact noise effectively.
• Built-in 6-mil vapor barrier combined with DriWick technology offers strong moisture protection.
• Supports radiant heating systems and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
• Made in the USA from 100% recycled materials, ensuring quality and sustainability.

Cons:

• May be limited to flooring types 4mm or thicker, excluding some thinner materials.
• Compression resistance might vary under very heavy furniture over long periods.

ROBERTS Moisture Barricade Underlayment Film for Floors, 120 Sq. Ft. Roll

The ROBERTS Moisture Barricade Underlayment Film is a durable vapor barrier designed for floors. Made from 6 mil polyethylene film, it covers 120 square feet and meets moisture protection standards set by the NWFA. This underlayment unfolds to a size of 10 by 12 feet, providing broad coverage with ease.

Its built-in adhesive strip helps to seal seams tightly, preventing moisture from seeping through. The film supports various flooring types including vinyl, laminate, SPC, and engineered wood. This makes it a versatile choice for many floor installations.

Weighing only 2.7 pounds, it is easy to handle and install. It is especially suitable for concrete subfloors, offering reliable moisture protection. The product’s design focuses on durability and straightforward application.

Best for: Homeowners and flooring professionals seeking a reliable, easy-to-install moisture barrier compatible with laminate and other types of flooring on concrete subfloors.

Pros:

• Exceeds NWFA moisture protection standards with 6 mil thickness
• Adhesive strip ensures effective seam sealing
• Lightweight and covers a large 120 sq. ft. area

Cons:

• May be limited to use mainly under vinyl, laminate, SPC, and engineered wood floors

Insulayment Flooring Underlayment Roll (3’x33.3′, INSUL100)

The Insulayment Flooring Underlayment Roll (3’x33.3′, INSUL100) is designed for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly and effective flooring base. Made from recycled fibers in the USA, it covers 100 sq. ft and supports various installation methods such as floating, glue-down, thin-set, or nail-down.

This underlayment enhances indoor sound quality by absorbing both impact and airborne noise. Its dense structure resists compression, providing a stable and comfortable floor feel. It is free of VOCs, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

Additionally, the product supports radiant heating systems like QuietWarmth, allowing for efficient heat transfer. It bonds well with adhesives, ensuring a secure fit under different floor types.

Best for: Homeowners and builders seeking a sustainable underlayment that reduces noise and works with radiant heating and multiple flooring installations.

Pros:

• Made from recycled materials, supporting environmental sustainability.
• Effectively absorbs impact and airborne noise to improve indoor acoustics.
• Compatible with radiant heat systems and various installation methods.
• Dense construction resists compression for long-lasting performance.

Cons:

• May require a separate moisture barrier since it lacks an attached vapor film.
• Could provide less moisture protection compared to underlayments with built-in vapor barriers.

VEVOR Floor Underlayment 200 sq. ft. Roll, 3-in-1 Flooring Padding with Vapor Barrier and Tape

The VEVOR Floor Underlayment comes in a 200 sq. ft. roll, ideal for covering large laminate flooring projects efficiently. It features a 3mm thick IXPE foam layer that provides effective sound insulation, helping to reduce noise transmission.

A built-in gold PE vapor barrier protects floors from moisture, which is essential when laying over concrete surfaces. The underlayment material is easy to cut and work with, allowing for a smooth and quick installation process.

Included is a roll of tape that ensures a seamless join between sheets, enhancing the vapor barrier’s effectiveness. This flooring padding is compatible with laminate, engineered wood, and floating floors but is not recommended for vinyl flooring.

Best for: Homeowners and contractors installing laminate, engineered wood, or floating floors on concrete who require good moisture protection and soundproofing.

Pros:

• Covers a large area of 200 sq. ft. per roll, minimizing installation interruptions.
• Integrated gold PE vapor barrier safeguards against moisture.
• Easy-to-cut material with included tape for efficient installation.
• Provides soundproofing to enhance floor comfort.

Cons:

• Might not be suitable for use with vinyl flooring.

Top Concrete Underlayment Performance Comparison

Product	Thickness	Coverage	Key Features	Best For
BlueStep Moisture Barrier	3mm	200 sq ft	Built-in barrier, lightweight	DIY projects
ROBERTS Super Felt	3mm	360 sq ft	Recycled fibers, heat-treated	Professional use
QuietWalk	3mm	100 sq ft	GREENGUARD Gold, Dri-Wick tech	Health-conscious
GoldMax Premium	3mm	200 sq ft	IIC/STC ratings, grid lines	Multi-unit buildings
VEVOR 3-in-1	3mm	200 sq ft	Gold PE barrier, tape included	Large projects
SoundStep XL	Variable	100 sq ft	R-value 0.24, radiant compatible	Climate control

Key Performance Features to Look for in Concrete Underlayments

When you’re choosing underlayment for your laminate flooring on concrete, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

Moisture Barrier Importance

Since concrete slabs often allow moisture to seep through, you need a reliable moisture barrier beneath your laminate flooring to prevent damage. This barrier blocks water vapor from rising through the concrete, protecting your flooring from warping, swelling, and mold growth.

Look for underlayments made from polyethylene film or specialized vapor-resistant materials that meet industry standards. This is especially essential if you’re installing laminate in basements or humid environments where moisture transmission is common.

Choosing a moisture barrier that exceeds minimum thickness and vapor resistance ratings gives you long-term protection and maintains your floor’s integrity. Without this layer, you risk costly repairs and compromised flooring performance.

Soundproofing Capabilities

Beyond moisture protection, underlayment plays a vital role in reducing noise from footsteps and impacts on concrete floors. You’ll want to choose high-quality soundproofing underlayment that can cut impact noise by up to 20 decibels, making your space noticeably quieter.

Look for materials like crosslinked foam or recycled fibers, as their density and composition directly affect sound absorption. Pay attention to acoustic ratings such as IIC (Impact Insulation Class) and STC (Sound Transmission Class) to gauge performance.

Proper installation is key—ensure seams are seamless and coverage is complete to maximize noise reduction. While thickness contributes, focus on sound-absorbing materials paired with vapor barriers for the best soundproofing results when laying laminate on concrete.

Thickness and Cushioning

Although choosing the right underlayment thickness might seem straightforward, it plays a crucial role in how your laminate flooring performs over concrete. Thicker underlayments—usually 3mm or more—offer better cushioning and shock absorption, making your floors feel more comfortable and reducing hollow sounds.

They also help mask minor subfloor imperfections, creating a smoother surface for installation. Additionally, thicker options improve thermal insulation, keeping your feet warmer on cold concrete slabs.

However, you need to avoid going too thick, as excessive thickness can affect door clearances and compromise floor stability. So, aim for a balanced thickness that enhances comfort and performance without causing installation challenges or structural issues.

Installation Ease

When installing laminate flooring over concrete, choosing an underlayment that’s easy to handle can save you time and frustration. Look for products that unroll smoothly with minimal seams so you can lay them quickly and neatly.

Underlayments with pre-attached tape or adhesive strips help you seal seams effortlessly, cutting down on extra tools and steps. Clear printed grid lines on the material make measuring and cutting more precise, especially around corners and edges.

Opt for lightweight options you can move and position without heavy lifting or special equipment. Also, pick underlayments designed for floating installations, enabling you to layer over concrete substrates swiftly and securely.

Compatibility With Concrete

Since concrete slabs can emit moisture, you need to choose an underlayment specifically designed to protect against vapor and water infiltration. Look for products featuring built-in moisture barriers or vapor retarders, such as polyethylene film or specialized moisture-resistant layers.

Make sure the underlayment’s specifications explicitly state compatibility with concrete subfloors and resistance to moisture from the slab. It should also provide enough thickness and compression resistance to smooth out concrete’s surface irregularities and prevent telegraphing.

Additionally, verify that the product complies with industry standards and holds certifications for effective moisture management on concrete. By focusing on these factors, you’ll ensure your laminate flooring stays dry, stable, and long-lasting over concrete subfloors prone to moisture issues.

Durability and Warranty

Durability plays a crucial role in choosing the right underlayment for laminate flooring on concrete, especially because it needs to withstand both installation stresses and everyday foot traffic. You want an underlayment made from tear-resistant, high-quality materials that resist compression and maintain floor stability—typically at least 3mm thick.

When selecting an underlayment, check for warranties that last at least 10 years; this ensures protection against material breakdown and performance issues over time. A solid warranty usually covers moisture barriers and soundproofing, giving you added value throughout your floor’s lifespan.

Make sure the warranty matches your usage, especially if your floor handles heavy or frequent traffic. This way, you’re confident your underlayment will hold up and protect your investment long-term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Underlayment Improve Laminate Flooring Insulation?

Yes, underlayment can definitely improve laminate flooring insulation. When you install underlayment, it adds a layer of cushioning that helps reduce heat loss through the concrete.

This means your floor feels warmer and more comfortable underfoot. Plus, it can also act as a moisture barrier and reduce noise.

How Often Should Underlayment Be Replaced?

Like the silent guard beneath your feet, underlayment usually lasts as long as your laminate flooring, often 10-20 years. You only need to replace it if you notice moisture damage, mold, or compression that affects floor stability.

So, don’t stress about frequent changes; instead, check it during renovations or if your floor feels uneven or noisy. Keeping an eye on it guarantees your flooring stays comfortable and durable.

Are Underlayments Safe for Radiant Floor Heating?

Yes, underlayments are safe for radiant floor heating, but you need to select one specifically designed for that purpose. These underlayments have low thermal resistance, allowing heat to pass through efficiently.

Avoid thick foam or rubber types, as they can trap heat and reduce system efficiency. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to confirm compatibility with your heating system, so you get warmth without compromising your flooring’s performance.

Can Underlayment Reduce Floor Leveling Issues?

Yes, underlayment can help reduce minor floor leveling issues by providing a cushioning layer that evens out small imperfections on your concrete subfloor. While it won’t fix major unevenness or dips, it does absorb slight bumps and creates a smoother surface for your laminate.

Just make sure you choose an underlayment designed for leveling and moisture protection, so your flooring stays stable and durable over time.

Choose the Right Underlayment for Long-Lasting Results

When installing laminate flooring on concrete, choosing the right underlayment is essential for moisture protection and sound reduction. Did you know that 70% of flooring issues stem from inadequate moisture barriers? By picking a quality underlayment like those listed, you’ll protect your floor and enhance comfort.

Don’t overlook features like vapor barriers and soundproofing—these can significantly enhance your home’s durability and quietness. Make a smart choice for lasting, beautiful floors.

Last update on 2025-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API