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10 Best Acoustic Underlayments 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,240
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
Thickness

Most important from
357 reviews

Sound Transmission Class (STC)
The floors seem solid and I cannot imagine too much noise is being transmitted downstairs.
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
Installed in a second floor to avoid bothering neighbors downstairs.
Thickness
The underlayment is not too thick to cause any flexing with LVP joints, but still enough cushion to make walking on it pretty quiet.

The QuietWalk LV Luxury Vinyl, Laminate, or Wood Underlayment is designed to provide excellent sound reduction, making it a suitable choice for anyone looking to minimize noise transmission between rooms. It uses recycled synthetic fibers, which help absorb sound effectively and ensure a solid feel underfoot for floating floors. This underlayment is also compression-resistant, meaning it will maintain its structure even under consistent foot traffic, which is beneficial for the longevity of your floors.

The integrated DriWick technology ensures moisture protection by allowing concrete subfloors to breathe and preventing moisture from damaging your flooring. Additionally, it comes with a vapor barrier, adding an extra layer of protection against moisture. This product is compatible with a variety of installation methods, including floating, glue-down, and nail-down, and it’s suitable for several types of flooring, such as luxury vinyl, laminate, and wood floors. It's also certified for clean indoor air quality with no VOC emissions, which is a significant plus for health-conscious users.

Another advantage is its compatibility with in-floor radiant heat systems, ensuring that heat permeates evenly and protecting the floor from thermal shock. The underlayment covers 360 square feet per roll, making it a cost-effective option for larger projects. On the downside, the thickness of 0.06 inches might be less than what some users are looking for in terms of cushioning.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,240
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
Thickness

Most important from
357 reviews

Sound Transmission Class (STC)
The floors seem solid and I cannot imagine too much noise is being transmitted downstairs.
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
Installed in a second floor to avoid bothering neighbors downstairs.
Thickness
The underlayment is not too thick to cause any flexing with LVP joints, but still enough cushion to make walking on it pretty quiet.
#2

Wood Fiber Flooring Underlayment, 6mm (1/4 Inch) Thickness - 180 Sq Ft, Natural Soundproofing Insulation, for Laminate, Vinyl, LVT, LVP, or Hardwood

Rating
9.6
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
Material Type

Most important from
427 reviews

Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Unlike plywood, this underlayment absorbs minor imperfections and eliminates gaps, making it superior in reducing noise.
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
The sound deadening properties make a huge difference, significantly reducing impact noise from walking on solid surface flooring.
Material Type
No need for leveling the concrete saved both time and money, as the fiber material absorbs bumps and keeps the top level straight.
Thickness
Using two layers of the 1/8 inch product allows for carving out larger imperfections and bridging them effectively.
Density
The sturdiness of the boards ensures the floor does not bend or squeak, unlike 'foamy' underlayments.

The Wood Fiber Flooring Underlayment by STEICO is a natural soundproofing insulation option that offers several benefits. With a thickness of 6mm (1/4 inch), it provides good sound control and acoustic properties, helping to create a quieter living environment. The product has been US tested and certified, ensuring it meets high standards for soundproofing, which is particularly beneficial for those living in multi-story buildings with concrete slabs.

The underlayment is made from pure wood fiber, free of harmful VOCs and other emissions, making it a safer choice for indoor air quality. Its high compression strength supports 'click-lock' flooring systems, preventing squeaks and extending the floor's lifespan. The material is breathable and uses 'Vapor Open' technology to prevent moisture buildup, which can be crucial in areas prone to minor leaks or humidity.

This product is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for an environmentally friendly underlayment that improves sound insulation and floor durability.

Rating
9.6
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
Material Type

Most important from
427 reviews

Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Unlike plywood, this underlayment absorbs minor imperfections and eliminates gaps, making it superior in reducing noise.
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)
The sound deadening properties make a huge difference, significantly reducing impact noise from walking on solid surface flooring.
Material Type
No need for leveling the concrete saved both time and money, as the fiber material absorbs bumps and keeps the top level straight.
Thickness
Using two layers of the 1/8 inch product allows for carving out larger imperfections and bridging them effectively.
Density
The sturdiness of the boards ensures the floor does not bend or squeak, unlike 'foamy' underlayments.

Buying Guide for the Best Acoustic Underlayments

Choosing the right acoustic underlayment is crucial for ensuring that your space remains quiet and comfortable. Acoustic underlayments are materials placed beneath flooring to reduce noise transmission and improve sound insulation. When selecting an acoustic underlayment, consider the type of flooring you have, the level of noise reduction you need, and the specific requirements of your space. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Sound Transmission Class (STC)Sound Transmission Class (STC) measures how well an underlayment can block airborne sound. This is important for reducing noise from voices, music, and other sounds that travel through the air. STC ratings typically range from 50 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better sound insulation. If you need significant noise reduction, such as in a home theater or recording studio, look for an underlayment with a higher STC rating. For general residential use, a moderate STC rating may suffice.
Impact Insulation Class (IIC)Impact Insulation Class (IIC) measures how well an underlayment can reduce impact noise, such as footsteps or objects dropping on the floor. This is crucial for multi-story buildings or spaces where foot traffic is frequent. IIC ratings typically range from 50 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better impact noise reduction. If you live in an apartment or have rooms above each other, choose an underlayment with a higher IIC rating to minimize noise disturbances.
Material TypeAcoustic underlayments come in various materials, including foam, rubber, cork, and felt. Each material has different properties that affect sound insulation and durability. Foam and rubber are often used for their excellent sound absorption and resilience, while cork and felt are eco-friendly options that also provide good insulation. Consider the type of flooring you have and the specific needs of your space when choosing the material. For example, rubber may be ideal for high-traffic areas, while cork might be better for a quieter, more natural feel.
ThicknessThe thickness of an acoustic underlayment can impact its effectiveness in sound insulation. Thicker underlayments generally provide better noise reduction but may also affect the height of your flooring. Thickness typically ranges from 2mm to 10mm. If you need substantial noise reduction, opt for a thicker underlayment. However, if maintaining the original floor height is important, you might prefer a thinner option that still offers adequate sound insulation.
DensityDensity refers to the weight and compactness of the underlayment material. Higher density materials usually offer better sound insulation and durability. Density is often measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF). For areas with heavy foot traffic or where maximum noise reduction is needed, choose a higher density underlayment. For less demanding applications, a lower density may be sufficient and more cost-effective.
Moisture ResistanceMoisture resistance is important for preventing mold and mildew growth, especially in areas prone to dampness like basements or bathrooms. Some underlayments have built-in moisture barriers or are made from materials that resist water absorption. If you are installing flooring in a moisture-prone area, ensure the underlayment has good moisture resistance to protect both the underlayment and the flooring above it.

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