The Ultimate Guide to Rubber Underlayment: Why It’s a Game-Changer for Your Floors

When it comes to flooring, what’s beneath the surface matters just as much as what’s on top. Whether you're installing hardwood, tile, vinyl, or carpet, rubber underlayment is a secret weapon for superior soundproofing, durability, and moisture resistance. Let’s dive into why this hidden layer makes all the difference.

 What is Rubber Underlayment?  

Rubber underlayment is a high-performance cushioning layer made from recycled or synthetic rubber. Unlike foam or cork alternatives, it delivers unparalleled acoustic insulation, absorbs vibrations, and resists moisture—making it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial spaces.

 Why Does Rubber Underlayment Matter for Noise Reduction?  

If you’ve ever lived in a noisy apartment or heard footsteps echo through a house, you know the importance of soundproofing. Rubber underlayment significantly improves IIC (Impact Insulation Class) and STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings—two key measures of flooring sound performance.

 1. IIC (Impact Insulation Class):  

This rating measures how well a material reduces impact noise, such as footsteps, furniture movement, or objects dropping onto the floor.

 A higher IIC rating means better noise reduction.

 Rubber underlayment absorbs and disperses vibrations, preventing sound from traveling between floors.

 2. STC (Sound Transmission Class):  

This rating measures how well a material blocks airborne sounds like voices, TV noise, and music.

 A higher STC rating means better sound insulation.

 The density of rubber underlayment acts as a natural sound barrier, preventing noise from passing through walls and floors.

 Why Choose Rubber Over Other Underlayment Options?  

 Unmatched Sound Absorption: Outperforms cork and foam in reducing both impact and airborne noise.

 Long-Lasting Durability: Maintains acoustic properties over time without deteriorating.

 Moisture & Mold Resistance: Unlike cork, rubber won’t absorb moisture or develop mold, making it ideal for humid environments.

 Versatile Application: Compatible with various flooring types, including tile, engineered hardwood, and luxury vinyl planks (LVP).

 Rubber Underlayment Options 

Looking for the right fit? Here’s a breakdown of available options:

 Core  2mm: Ideal for tile, stone, glue-down hardwood, floated hardwood, and click-

floated flooring. Available in a 4' x 75' roll (300 sq.ft/roll).

 Core  5mm: Suitable for the same applications as the 2mm version, except for click-floated flooring. Comes in 30" x 48" sheets (10 sq.ft/sheet).

 Core  10mm: Best for tile, stone, and glue-down hardwood applications. Sold in 30" x 48" sheets (10 sq.ft/sheet).

 Final Thoughts  

If you’re looking to reduce noise, prevent moisture issues, and enhance the longevity of your flooring, rubber underlayment is the way to go. Compared to cork, it offers superior performance without the risk of mold or degradation over time. Whether for a home, office, or commercial space, investing in quality underlayment ensures a quieter, more comfortable environment.

Ready to upgrade your floors? Choose rubber underlayment for long-term durability and top-tier soundproofing.