Acoustic underlay for parquet and carpet is a fast solution that reduces impact noise without altering the existing floor build-up — only a 3-10 mm acoustic mat under the final finish. Provides ΔLw 18-22 dB with only 5-10 mm extra height. The first choice for renovations and quick fixes.
What is parquet/carpet underlayment?
Underlayment is the economical alternative to a full floating screed: a thin acoustic mat placed beneath the finish without disturbing the existing floor. Performance is lower than a floating screed (18-22 dB vs 28-35 dB), but installation is fast and overall thickness is minimally affected.
When is it sufficient?
- Quick, low-disruption fix during a refurbishment
- Mid-level neighbour footstep complaints
- Tenant fit-out (reversible, temporary)
- Hotel room refurb where only the top finish changes
- Extra acoustic layer beneath an office raised floor
Underlay types
- Cork (3-6 mm): classic under-parquet, natural material
- Polyethylene foam (3-5 mm): economical, widely used
- Polyester acoustic mat (5-10 mm): high performance, moisture-resistant
- Rubber underlay (3-5 mm): under carpet, high impact resistance
- Combination (rubber + cork): premium under-parquet
Installation
- Existing floor cleaned and levelled.
- 5 mm flexible perimeter strip at the walls.
- Acoustic mat laid; joints overlapped to prevent sound bridges.
- Parquet or carpet installed on top.
- Skirting fixed with elastic backer (no rigid contact).
Limits to be aware of
Thin underlays are not a substitute for a floating screed. Low-frequency sound (sub-woofer, low music bass) cannot be significantly reduced this way. For top-tier comfort the floating screed remains the recommended approach.
Target performance
- Thin underlay: ΔLw 18-22 dB
- Mid-thickness underlay: ΔLw 22-26 dB
- Premium combination: ΔLw 25-28 dB
Time and cost
Per-flat application 1-2 days. Investment is 1/3-1/4 of a floating screed and pays back quickly. Our recommended choice for clients seeking "minimum disruption, maximum gain" during renovations.
Certification
All underlay products we supply have manufacturer-certified EN ISO 717-2 ΔLw values and minimum CFL-s1 fire class.
Features
On-site acoustic measurement and noise source analysis
Detailed engineering with professional simulation software
Certified material selection (BS476 Class 0, UNI 9175)
Meticulous installation and execution with our experienced team
Final measurement and performance warranty report
Process
Survey & Measurement
On-site survey and acoustic measurement.
Simulation & Design
Simulation with acoustic software, detailed quote.
Installation
Turnkey installation with certified materials.
Verification & Report
Final measurement, performance report, warranty.
Technical Specifications
| Application Standard | BS476 Class 0, UNI 9175 M1, Firex |
|---|---|
| Typical Noise Reduction | 25-45 dB (project-dependent) |
| Installation Time | Confirmed after survey (1-15 days) |
| Warranty | Measured result + 2-year workmanship warranty |