10 Best Underlayment For Carpets 2026 in the United States

The ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment is designed for use under laminate and engineered wood flooring, but it can also serve well under carpets. It comes in a substantial 600 sq. ft. roll, which is economical compared to buying smaller rolls. With a thickness of 2.5 mm, it offers adequate cushioning and a reduction in sound transference, which are essential for comfort and noise management in carpeted areas. The product's high IIC and STC ratings (70 and 66 respectively) indicate strong performance in soundproofing, making it a good choice for those looking to minimize noise from impacts and general sound transmission through floors.

Its easy installation feature, with plastic overlap and adhesive strip, adds convenience for both DIY users and professional installers. While it is touted as ideal for use over radiant heated floors, potential users should ensure compatibility with their specific heating systems. The underlayment also provides insulation benefits. Although the product does not explicitly mention a moisture barrier, its material and design might offer some resistance.

The ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment is designed for use with engineered wood and laminate flooring, making it a versatile option for various types of flooring installations. It features a thickness of 3 millimeters, which provides a moderate level of cushioning that is suitable for correcting minor sub-floor imperfections. The material is heat-treated, recycled fibers, making it an eco-friendly choice.

This underlayment is green in appearance and comes in a roll format, covering a substantial area of 360 square feet, which is beneficial for larger projects. The top film layer provides protection from harmful moisture vapor, ensuring durability and stability over concrete and wood subfloors. Additionally, it offers some level of soundproofing and insulation, although these features are not heavily emphasized in the product description.

It is important to note that it might not be the best choice for those seeking maximum soundproofing or insulation, as the primary focus appears to be on moisture protection and cushioning. The roll format and substantial weight of 45.5 pounds may require extra effort during installation. Nonetheless, this underlayment could be an excellent choice for users looking for a green, durable, and moderately cushioned option for their flooring needs.

The AMERIQUE Premium Flooring Underlayment is a solid choice for those looking to install wood, bamboo, or laminate floors. With a thickness of 2.5mm, it offers decent cushioning and support for your flooring. The closed foam technology is designed to reduce sound, making it quieter to walk on your floors. The anti-crush feature ensures that the padding retains its shape and performance over time, which is crucial for longevity.

Additionally, the underlayment includes a vapor barrier, which protects against mold and moisture, a significant advantage in areas prone to dampness. The product is also non-allergenic, making it suitable for homes with allergy sufferers. Installation is straightforward due to the self-adhesive strip and overlap design, saving time and effort.

It is worth noting that the density isn't specified, which may be a concern for those needing a more robust underlayment. Also, while it is marketed as heavy-duty, it is relatively lightweight at just under 5 pounds for the entire pack. This underlayment is best suited for residential settings where moderate insulation and soundproofing are desired, and it may not be ideal for extremely high-traffic areas due to its thickness and unspecified density.