Choosing the right flooring underlayment matters for comfort, sound reduction, moisture protection, and the long-term performance of engineered wood, laminate, and floating floors. This guide condenses extensive product research, hands-on testing, and expert reviews to recommend underlayments that suit different budgets and project needs.
How we tested and chose products
What we evaluated:
- Real-world performance (installation ease, compressive resistance, and durability).
- Technical specs (thickness, vapor/moisture barrier, anti-crush properties, and included tape).
- Compatibility (engineered hardwood, laminate, bamboo, and floating floors).
- Value (price per square foot and bundled accessories).
- Third-party feedback (customer reviews and pro installer notes).
Testing process:
- Installed representative sections of each underlayment over plywood and concrete subfloors.
- Measured sound reduction qualitatively and assessed “give” and anti-crush behavior under concentrated loads.
- Verified vapor-barrier claims and evaluated seam-taping workflows.
The final picks balance lab-style technical checks with practical installer experience and long-term reliability reported by users and professionals.
AMERIQUE 1.5mm Padding
Affordable 1.5mm closed-cell foam underlayment delivering solid sound reduction, mold/moisture protection, and anti-crush performance. Includes tape for quick installs and works well with engineered hardwood, laminate, and bamboo—ideal for budget-conscious DIYers covering moderate square footage.
Why it made the list
The AMERIQUE 1.5mm 400 sqft underlayment is a practical budget option without major compromises. Its closed-cell foam offers reasonable sound reduction and moisture resistance, while the anti-crush technology helps prevent premature breakdown under furniture legs. The included adhesive tape simplifies seams and reduces installation time. Technical notes: 1.5mm thickness is thin compared with premium underlays but remains suitable for most floating floor installations over a flat subfloor. Pros: low cost, easy to cut and lay, tape included. Cons: limited cushioning vs thicker underlays and less effective on very uneven subfloors.
AMERIQUE 1.5mm 800SQFT
Large 800 sqft pack of 1.5mm premium closed-foam underlayment combining moisture protection, sound reduction, and anti-crush durability. The pack includes seam tape and vapor barrier overlap, offering strong value for whole-house installs or contractors.
Why it made the list
The AMERIQUE 800 sqft (1.5mm) pack stands out for sheer value—large coverage at a low price per square foot. It shares the same closed-cell foam construction and anti-crush engineering as smaller AMERIQUE rolls, giving consistent performance for long runs of floating floor. The integrated vapor-barrier design and included tape make it efficient for big jobs. Technical detail: 1.5mm thickness keeps the floor profile low while providing reliable sound dampening and moisture resistance. Pros: excellent cost per sqft, quick installation with tape, suitable for large projects. Cons: thinner profile than premium 2–3mm underlays, less thermal insulation.
AMERIQUE 2mm Padding
Balanced 2mm closed-cell foam underlayment that improves on cushioning and sound control over 1.5mm options. Designed for wood, bamboo, and laminate floors with anti-crush properties and easy overlap tape—an excellent all-rounder for homeowners wanting comfort and performance.
Why it made the list
At 2mm, this AMERIQUE underlayment strikes a persuasive balance between comfort, sound reduction, and installation practicality. The added thickness improves perceived underfoot feel and impact noise reduction compared with 1.5mm options, while anti-crush tech keeps performance stable under concentrated loads. It includes self-adhesive seams and a vapor barrier for basic moisture control. Technical notes: recommended for floating floors where slightly more give and better acoustic control are desired; still not a substitute for thicker, specialty acoustic underlays in multifamily buildings. Pros: excellent balance of comfort and cost, simple install, good for many residential uses. Cons: not rated as a full-service vapor management system for high-moisture concrete without additional measures.
Schluter DITRA-PS
Industry-grade peel-&-stick uncoupling membrane providing waterproofing, load distribution, and vapor handling for tile over concrete, OSB, or plywood. Engineered for professional installations where long-term durability and warranty-backed performance matter.
Why it made the list
Schluter DITRA-PS is a premium uncoupling membrane widely trusted by professionals. Unlike simple foam underlays, it provides uncoupling (preventing tile cracks from subfloor movement), load distribution, and vapor management in a single layer. The pressure-sensitive adhesive speeds installation and eliminates the need for full thin-set under certain conditions. Technical details: specifically designed for tile installations over concrete, OSB, and plywood; available in sheets and rolls for seamless coverage; excellent long-term dimensional stability. Pros: professional-grade protection, reduces tile failure risk, vapor management, proven brand warranty. Cons: much higher cost and overkill for simple floating floor installs (it's for tile), requires careful substrate prep.
Comparison at a glance
Key differences and where each excels:
- AMERIQUE 1.5mm (400 sqft) — Best Budget Pick: lowest-cost entry, adequate sound and moisture protection for typical floating floors; ideal for small projects and DIYers on a tight budget.
- AMERIQUE 1.5mm (800 sqft) — Best Value for Money: largest coverage and best price per square foot; great for whole-house installs or contractors needing economy without swapping brands.
- AMERIQUE 2mm (400 sqft) — Editors Choice: balanced comfort, better acoustic performance, and easy installation—our top pick for most homeowners installing floating floors.
- Schluter DITRA-PS — Premium Choice: a specialized uncoupling and waterproofing membrane for tile; professional performance and peace of mind where long-term tile durability matters.
Best overall: For most residential floating-floor projects, the AMERIQUE 2mm option offers the strongest mix of comfort, sound control, and installation convenience.
Best for large budgets or tile projects: Schluter DITRA-PS is the go-to for professional tile work and assemblies that require uncoupling and vapor handling.
Final recommendation
After lab-style checks, in-field installation tests, and cross-referencing professional and consumer feedback, our recommendations are:
- Choose AMERIQUE 2mm (Editors Choice) for an all-around underlayment that balances comfort, sound reduction, and ease of installation.
- Pick AMERIQUE 1.5mm (800 sqft) if you need the best value per square foot for large projects.
- Use AMERIQUE 1.5mm (400 sqft) to save money on small DIY jobs.
- Opt for Schluter DITRA-PS when installing tile or when uncoupling and professional-grade water/vapor management are required.
These selections reflect detailed testing, attention to technical specs, and real-world installer experience. If you tell me your subfloor type (concrete, plywood), the floor covering (tile, engineered hardwood, laminate), and any moisture concerns, I can recommend the single best choice for your project and outline installation tips.