10 Best Underlayment For Hardwood Floors 2026 in the United States

The STEICO Wood Fiber Flooring Underlayment offers a 6mm (1/4 inch) thickness, which is a good middle ground for sound reduction and cushioning under hardwood and similar flooring types like laminate and vinyl. Its main strength lies in natural soundproofing, thanks to the wood fiber material that has passed rigorous acoustic testing, making it a solid choice if noise reduction is important in your home. The underlayment is breathable and features “vapor open” technology, helping to prevent moisture buildup that can damage hardwood floors, although it is not a full plastic moisture barrier, so it may not be ideal in very damp areas without additional protection.

Made from pure wood fiber without synthetic additives, it is environmentally friendly with low emissions, which is a plus for indoor air quality. Its high compression strength means it supports the flooring well without causing squeaks or a springy feel. Installation is relatively straightforward, and the product can be layered for leveling uneven floors. However, at 6mm thick, it may be slightly heavier and more rigid compared to foam or cork alternatives, which could influence ease of handling and fitting around corners or edges.

This underlayment is best suited for homeowners looking for a natural, eco-friendly material that improves sound insulation and floor comfort, especially in living spaces, rather than wet basements or high humidity zones.

The QuietWalk Laminate Flooring Underlayment is a well-regarded choice for those installing laminate, floating engineered wood, or luxury vinyl plank floors that are 5mm thick or more. It stands out with its excellent sound reduction, thanks to recycled fiber materials that absorb noise effectively, making floors feel more solid and less hollow underfoot. Its compression-resistant felt provides good support for click-together flooring systems, helping maintain stability over time and under foot traffic.

Moisture protection is a key strength here—an attached vapor barrier combined with breathable recycled fibers helps manage moisture from concrete subfloors, reducing the risk of damage to your floors. This underlayment is also safe for indoor air quality with no harmful off-gassing, and it works with in-floor radiant heating systems without blocking heat flow, which is great if you want warm floors. Installation is straightforward, as it comes in large rolls that you roll out and seam together easily, compatible with both wood and concrete subfloors.

The thickness is modest at about 0.13 inches, so if you’re looking for extra cushioning, you might need a thicker option. Also, while it covers a large area per roll, its weight can make handling somewhat cumbersome for some users. This product provides a solid, durable underlayment that balances moisture protection, sound control, and ease of installation, making it a great fit for laminate or engineered flooring projects where reducing noise and managing moisture are priorities.

The WarmStep Model WS3012-120 is a 36 sq. ft. in-floor heated mat designed for both engineered and solid hardwood floors. One of its significant strengths is its ease of installation, which doesn't require cement or mortar and can be applied using glue, nails, fasteners, or as a floating floor. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a straightforward installation process.

Additionally, it offers the health benefits of radiant heat by eliminating drafts and airborne allergens, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. The energy efficiency is another notable advantage, claiming up to 40% savings over conventional heating systems, which can be cost-effective in the long run. This product is designed to last for the lifetime of the floor when correctly installed and operated, providing long-term value.

The product dimensions and area coverage are practical but limited to smaller spaces, so it may not be suitable for larger rooms without purchasing multiple units. While the product does offer good moisture barrier and sound reduction properties, these features are not explicitly highlighted, which could leave some users questioning its full capabilities in these areas. This heated mat is a practical solution for those looking for easy installation and energy-efficient floor heating.