SoundStop® Underlayment Product Comparison Section

The underlayment product you choose will vary according to your individual needs.  It is a good idea to get a basic understanding of the different product options available, their attributes and how they can benefit you.

There are 5 Main Types of Underlayment:

• Standard Foam
• Combination Foam/Film
• Fiberboard
• Modified or Upgraded
• Solid Cork

Standard Foam Underlayment
This is the most common kind of underlayment and consists of a simple1/8” thick foam padding. The thinness of the product results in sub-par sound deadening results and does not correct sub-floor irregularities, resulting in uneven floors.

Combination Foam/Film
This product has the same consistency and effectiveness of Standard Foam Underlayment, but has the addition of a moisture barrier.  It is most commonly used in applications where the possibility exists for moisture to come through the sub floor affecting either the underlayment or flooring.  As with Standard foam Underlayment, Combination Foam/Film Underlayment it does not have effective sound deadening or sub floor leveling properties.

Fiberboard Underlayment
With high performance ratings and a price significantly lower than the alternatives, Fiberboard Underlayment offers the best package of benefits available.  Not only does fiberboard have sub-floor leveling capabilities, but its reputation for superior thermal insulation will save the user energy costs and increase home resale value.  Sound deadening capabilities also rank at superior levels along with its ability to eliminate the typical “click-clack” footfall noise associated with laminate or hardwood flooring. The environmentally friendly composition and manufacturing method of Fiberboard Underlayment meets the strict criteria set for green building requirements. SoundStop Fiberboard Underlayment, manufactured by Knight-Celotex is a supporter of the Green Building Initiative and builds on the solid tradition of the Celotex name by offering SoundStop Fiberboard Underlayment as a premium underlayment solution at a reasonable cost. 

(When installed over concrete, Fiberboard Underlayment requires a simple 6 mil plastic moisture barrier)

Modified or Upgraded Underlayment
Dense foam, closed cell foam and rubber are all categorized as modified or upgraded underlayment and is priced significantly higher than standard foam or combination foam/film.  The distinguishing characteristic of this product category is its superior sound deadening abilities. Other attributes such as sub-floor leveling abilities remain equal to foam or combination foam/film underlayment. 

Cork Underlayment
As the highest priced underlayment option, cork underlayment is an environmentally friendly and highly effective underlayment choice. Since it comes in many different thicknesses, many people choose cork for the purpose of raising an existing sub-floor to a desirable level.  Many times cork underlayment is installed with no moisture barrier since it is porous and resists trapping moisture.  Cork underlayment can be used in most flooring applications, but when installing under floating floors must be nailed or glued down.

Learn more about SoundStop® Fiberboard Underlayment

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