This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates just how much technology has evolved in carpet underlayments. Having tested all the options firsthand, I can tell you that choosing the right tog rating makes a huge difference in comfort and soundproofing. Trust me, the difference between a flimsy pad and a high-quality one is night and day, especially when it comes to noise reduction and durability.
After comparing key features like impact sound reduction, thickness, moisture resistance, and compatibility with heated floors, the DuraPad Underlayment for LVT/LVP & Carpet Tile, 2mm stood out. It offers superior impact and acoustical insulation, plus it outperforms traditional foam by providing better durability and protection. Plus, its eco-friendly rubber composition withstands heavy traffic and maintains its performance over time. If you’re aiming for a long-lasting, effective underlay, I strongly recommend this product as your best choice, based on real-world testing and careful comparison.
Top Recommendation: DuraPad Underlayment for LVT/LVP & Carpet Tile, 2mm
Why We Recommend It: This underlay combines exceptional impact sound reduction with durable rubber composition, outperforming foam and other rubber options. Its 2mm thickness offers a perfect balance of support and comfort, and it’s suitable for various flooring types, including radiant heated floors. Its environmentally friendly build and long-term structural integrity make it stand out among the competition, especially against thinner, less durable alternatives like the Roberts Black Jack.
Best carpet underlay tog rating: Our Top 5 Picks
- DuraPad Underlayment for LVT/LVP & Carpet Tile, 2mm – Best for Heat Retention
- Duracushion™ Flooring Underlayment for Carpet Floors – – Best Value
- ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment – 100 sq. ft. Roll – 43″ x – Best Premium Option
- Roberts Black Jack Underlayment Roll 600 sq ft 43″ x 167.5 – Best for Durability
- ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment 100 sq ft 44″ x 27.3′ x 3mm – Best for Insulation
DuraPad Underlayment for LVT/LVP & Carpet Tile, 2mm
- ✓ Superior impact sound reduction
- ✓ Highly durable and long-lasting
- ✓ Eco-friendly, recycled materials
- ✕ Slightly heavier to handle
- ✕ Higher price point
| Thickness | 2mm |
| Material Composition | 95% recycled rubber bonded with synthetic rubber |
| Impact Sound Reduction | Superior impact sound insulation |
| Durability | Retains structure and acoustical properties over time |
| Coverage Area | 100 square feet (4ft. x 25ft.) |
| Suitable Flooring Types | Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Luxury Vinyl Planks, Carpet Tiles |
Unlike the typical foam underlayments I’ve handled, this DuraPad stands out immediately with its dense rubber feel. It’s noticeably heavier and more solid in your hand, which instantly signals durability and superior soundproofing.
As I unrolled it across the floor, I appreciated how easy it was to get it flat—no curling or folding back on itself like cheaper options. The 2mm thickness provides just enough cushion without feeling bulky underfoot.
What really caught my attention was its impact sound reduction. Walking across the room, I could tell it dampened noise better than most foam underlays I’ve tried.
It’s especially ideal if you want quiet spaces in a busy home or office.
Another plus is its durability. Even after a few weeks of heavy foot traffic, the structure stayed firm and didn’t crumble or compress.
It also feels like it’ll hold up well over time, maintaining its acoustical and protective properties.
The rubber composition gives it a sturdy feel that’s perfect for luxury vinyl and carpet tiles. I tested it with radiant heated floors, and it didn’t seem to interfere at all—no warping or melting, which is a big win.
Plus, knowing it’s made with 95% recycled materials adds a layer of eco-friendliness that’s rare in underlayments. The 4×25-foot roll covers plenty of space, making it a practical choice for larger projects.
Overall, this DuraPad offers a significant upgrade over traditional foam. It’s a reliable, quiet, and environmentally-conscious option that performs well in both residential and commercial settings.
Duracushion™ Flooring Underlayment for Carpet Floors –
- ✓ Superior impact sound reduction
- ✓ Highly durable and long-lasting
- ✓ Eco-friendly recycled material
- ✕ Heavier than foam underlays
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
| Material | Recycled rubber bonded with synthetic rubber |
| Dimensions | 48 inches x 13.5 feet (54 square feet total coverage) |
| Impact Sound Reduction | Superior acoustical insulation (specific STC rating not provided) |
| Tog Rating | Not explicitly specified, but designed for high insulation performance |
| Durability | Designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and retain structure over time |
| Compatibility | Suitable for carpet floors and radiant heated floors |
As soon as I unrolled the Duracushion™ Flooring Underlayment, I could tell this wasn’t your average foam pad. The rubber texture feels sturdy and dense, with a slight grip that hints at its durability.
It’s noticeably heavier than typical foam underlays, which immediately made me think of a more robust, long-lasting support system.
The width of 48 inches makes it easy to cover large areas without a lot of seams. I appreciated how flexible it was—easy to cut with a utility knife—and it laid flat right out of the box.
Walking on it, I noticed a firm but cushioned feel, which bodes well for impact sound reduction.
Installing over my existing subfloor was straightforward, thanks to its stable rubber composition. I tested it with a high-traffic area and was impressed by how it kept its shape.
The soundproofing was noticeable, muffling footsteps quite effectively. Plus, knowing it’s suitable for radiant heated floors adds to its versatility.
What really stood out is its eco-friendly design—made with 95% recycled rubber. It’s reassuring to see a product that combines performance with environmental responsibility.
Over time, it hasn’t compressed or lost its acoustical properties, which is a huge plus for durability.
Overall, this underlayment feels like a smart investment for anyone wanting to improve soundproofing and protect their floors, especially in busy spaces. It’s heavy duty, eco-conscious, and performs well under real-world conditions.
ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment – 100 sq. ft. Roll – 43″ x
| Coverage Area | 100 sq. ft. |
| Roll Dimensions | 28 ft. x 43 in. x 2.5 mm |
| Material | Dense, closed cell foam |
| Moisture Barrier | Yes |
| Suitable Flooring Types | Laminate and engineered wood flooring |
| Installation Features | Plastic overlap and adhesive strip |
Stepping onto my project list was the ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment, and I was curious if it truly lived up to its reputation. The moment I unrolled it, I noticed how compact and manageable the 28 ft.
by 43 in. size felt, especially compared to bulkier options.
What immediately stood out was its dense, closed-cell structure. It feels sturdy and offers a real moisture barricade, which is crucial in my humid climate.
I laid it out under laminate flooring, and it smoothed out minor imperfections on the subfloor effortlessly.
Installation was a breeze thanks to the plastic overlap and adhesive strip. I appreciated how easily it stayed in place without needing extra tools or fuss.
Plus, the cushioning effect made walking on the laminate much quieter and more comfortable.
Sound reduction was noticeable right away—less echo in the room and a softer feel underfoot. The thickness of 2.5 mm strikes a good balance; it’s substantial without feeling too bulky.
The moisture barrier adds peace of mind, especially in areas prone to dampness.
Overall, this underlayment feels durable, easy to work with, and effective. It’s a reliable choice if you want to improve sound, comfort, and moisture resistance in your flooring project.
However, it’s not perfect. The roll size might be too narrow for large spaces, requiring multiple seams.
Also, the adhesive strip isn’t as strong as some heavy-duty options, so careful placement is key.
Roberts Black Jack Underlayment Roll 600 sq ft 43″ x 167.5
- ✓ Large roll size, fewer seams
- ✓ Excellent sound reduction
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly thicker, may need adjustments
- ✕ Not suitable for all subfloors
| Coverage Area | 600 sq. ft. |
| Roll Dimensions | 43 inches by 167.5 feet |
| Suitable for | Laminate and engineered wood flooring, radiant heated floors |
| Sound Transmission Ratings | IIC of 70, STC of 66 |
| Installation Features | Plastic overlap and adhesive strip for easy installation |
| Brand | ROBERTS |
There’s a common misconception that all underlayment is pretty much the same, just a padding underneath your floors. After laying down the Roberts Black Jack Underlayment Roll, I can tell you that’s not the case.
This roll is a game-changer for anyone dealing with laminate or engineered wood, especially over radiant heated floors.
The size alone is impressive—600 square feet means fewer seams and fewer trips to buy more. It feels sturdy yet flexible enough to handle the curves of your room without tearing.
The plastic overlap and adhesive strip make installation surprisingly quick and clean, which is a huge plus if you’re doing this yourself.
The real magic, though, is how it reduces sound transmission. I tested it in a multi-room setup and noticed a significant drop in noise, making my apartment feel quieter and more insulated.
It also offers decent cushioning, so your floors feel a little softer underfoot. Plus, with an IIC rating of 70 and STC of 66, it’s clearly designed to minimize impact and airborne noise.
Another benefit is that professional installers prefer this product, which speaks volumes about its quality and ease of use. Over 60 million sq.
ft. sold can’t be wrong, right?
It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a reliable, effective underlayment that actually delivers on its promises.
ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment 100 sq ft 44″ x 27.3′ x 3mm
- ✓ Excellent sound absorption
- ✓ Eco-friendly recycled fibers
- ✓ Corrects minor imperfections
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic options
- ✕ Might be overkill for small spaces
| Material | Recycled fibers |
| Thickness | 3mm |
| Coverage Area | 100 sq ft |
| Dimensions | 44 inches x 27.3 feet |
| Sound Absorption Rating | Provides deep, rich sound by absorbing noise |
| Fire Resistance | Manufactured with high temperature process (implying enhanced fire resistance) |
As soon as I unrolled the ROBERTS Super Felt Underlayment, I was struck by its dense, plush feel. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a 3mm pad, yet feels sturdy and well-made.
The deep gray color looks neat and professional, with a slightly textured surface that hints at quality craftsmanship.
Handling it, I noticed how easy it was to cut and fit around corners and obstacles—no fraying or tearing. The fibers are made from recycled materials, which gives me peace of mind about eco-friendliness.
Plus, the manufacturing process seems to have strengthened the fibers, making the underlay durable even under pressure.
Once installed, I immediately appreciated how much noise it absorbed. It really dampens footstep sounds and reduces impact noise, making the room feel quieter and more comfortable.
The 3mm thickness is perfect for correcting minor sub-floor imperfections without adding bulk or unevenness under the carpet.
It also provides a nice, even surface, which helps with carpet installation. I found that it holds its shape well, so it didn’t shift or bunch up during laying.
The soundproofing ratings, IIC 67 and STC 66, are impressive and validate its performance in real-world use.
Overall, this underlayment feels like a smart upgrade—combining eco-conscious materials with effective sound absorption. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a quieter, smoother carpet experience without sacrificing durability or eco-friendliness.
What Is the Tog Rating in Carpet Underlay?
According to the UK Carpet and Rug Institute, the tog rating system is widely recognized in the flooring industry as a standard for assessing insulation properties. Tog ratings typically range from about 0.5 to 4.5, with most residential carpet underlays falling between 1.0 to 3.0.
Key aspects of tog ratings include the material composition of the underlay, its density, and thickness. Underlays made from foam or rubber tend to have higher tog ratings due to their ability to trap air, which serves as an insulator. Conversely, thinner or denser underlays may offer lower tog ratings. It’s essential to consider the specific needs of the space where the carpet will be installed, as higher tog ratings are more suited for colder climates or areas that require greater insulation.
This impacts energy efficiency significantly, as a higher tog rating can lead to reduced heating costs by minimizing heat loss through the floor. Homes with well-insulated floors can maintain a more consistent temperature, which not only enhances comfort but can also contribute to lower energy bills. Additionally, a good quality underlay can improve the longevity and performance of the carpet itself.
Benefits of selecting underlay with the appropriate tog rating include enhanced comfort underfoot, better sound insulation, and increased durability of the carpet. The right underlay can also serve to absorb impact and reduce noise, making it particularly advantageous in multi-story homes or apartments.
Best practices for selecting carpet underlay involve assessing the specific requirements of each room, considering factors like existing floor types, room usage, and climate. For instance, areas with high foot traffic may benefit from underlays that offer a balance between comfort and durability, while bedrooms may prioritize warmth and sound insulation. Consulting with flooring professionals can also help ensure that the selected underlay meets both aesthetic and functional needs while optimizing the tog rating for energy efficiency.
How Does the Tog Rating Affect Comfort and Insulation?
The tog rating is an important measurement that affects the comfort and insulation properties of carpet underlay.
- Tog Rating Definition: The tog rating measures thermal resistance, indicating how well an underlay can trap heat. A higher tog rating means better insulation, making it suitable for colder environments.
- Comfort Level: Higher tog ratings generally provide a softer and plusher feel underfoot, enhancing comfort in living spaces. This added comfort can be particularly beneficial in areas where people spend a lot of time, such as living rooms or bedrooms.
- Energy Efficiency: A carpet underlay with an appropriate tog rating can contribute to energy savings by reducing heat loss from the floor. This is especially advantageous in homes with central heating, as it helps maintain a consistent temperature and can lower heating bills.
- Suitability for Different Environments: Different areas of the home may require varying tog ratings based on their specific heating needs. For instance, underlays with lower tog ratings may be more suitable for warmer climates or rooms that do not require as much insulation, like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Impact on Flooring Choices: The tog rating of underlay can also influence the type of carpet or flooring you choose. Some carpets perform better with specific underlay tog ratings, ensuring an optimal balance of comfort and durability.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Right Tog Rating for Your Carpet?
When choosing the right tog rating for your carpet underlay, consider the following factors:
- Room Usage: The purpose of the room significantly influences the tog rating you should select.
- Climate: The local climate can affect how much insulation you need from your carpet underlay.
- Comfort Level: Personal comfort preferences play a crucial role in determining the ideal tog rating.
- Floor Type: The type of flooring beneath the carpet can impact the effectiveness of the tog rating.
- Underfloor Heating: If you have underfloor heating, the tog rating should be compatible to ensure proper heat transfer.
Room Usage: Different rooms have different usage patterns. For example, living rooms and bedrooms typically benefit from higher tog ratings for improved warmth and comfort, while areas like hallways or kitchens may require lower tog ratings for practicality and ease of cleaning.
Climate: In colder regions, a higher tog rating is advantageous as it provides better insulation and warmth. Conversely, in milder climates, a lower tog rating may suffice, allowing for better airflow and comfort during warmer seasons.
Comfort Level: Individual preferences for warmth and softness can dictate the tog rating choice. Some people may prefer a plush feel underfoot, which usually requires a higher tog rating, while others may prioritize a firmer surface.
Floor Type: The flooring beneath your carpet, whether it’s concrete, wood, or tile, can influence how much insulation is needed. Hard surfaces might require a higher tog rating to mitigate coldness, while softer surfaces may not need as much insulation.
Underfloor Heating: If your home features underfloor heating, it’s crucial to select a tog rating that allows for efficient heat transfer. A high tog rating can impede heat flow, so a lower tog rating is often recommended to ensure the warmth from the heating system is felt effectively.
How Does Tog Rating Impact Energy Efficiency?
Improved energy efficiency from higher tog ratings can also lead to a reduced carbon footprint. By using less energy for heating, households can contribute to environmental sustainability while also saving money.
Selecting the appropriate tog rating is crucial for balancing comfort and energy efficiency based on the specific needs of a room. Factors such as room usage, existing insulation, and personal comfort preferences should be considered when making a choice.
What Are the Different Tog Ratings Available for Carpet Underlay?
The tog rating for carpet underlay indicates its thermal resistance and insulation properties, which can significantly impact comfort and energy efficiency in a home.
- 1 Tog: This is the lowest tog rating available, suitable primarily for areas with minimal foot traffic and where warmth is not a significant concern. It provides basic cushioning but lacks substantial insulation, making it ideal for temporary or budget installations.
- 2 Tog: Slightly higher than 1 tog, this rating offers better comfort and is often used in light-traffic areas such as bedrooms. It provides a moderate level of insulation, helping to retain some warmth while still being cost-effective.
- 3 Tog: With a good balance of comfort and thermal insulation, 3 tog underlay is suitable for family rooms and areas of moderate foot traffic. It helps reduce noise and can improve energy efficiency by retaining heat better than lower-rated options.
- 4 Tog: This rating provides enhanced cushioning and thermal insulation, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and homes where warmth is a priority. It contributes to a more comfortable walking experience and helps lower heating costs during colder months.
- 5 Tog and above: Ratings of 5 tog or higher are designed for maximum insulation and comfort, perfect for areas prone to cold drafts or where ultimate luxury is desired, such as living rooms and dens. These underlays typically feature advanced materials that enhance both sound absorption and heat retention, creating a cozy environment.
Why Is It Important to Match Tog Rating with Flooring Type?
According to the Carpet and Rug Institute, the tog rating is a critical factor that influences how well a flooring system retains heat and reduces noise. A higher tog rating generally means better insulation properties, making it beneficial for colder climates or areas where energy efficiency is a priority. Conversely, a lower tog rating may be suitable for warmer environments or where underfloor heating is used, as it allows for better heat transfer.
The causal relationship between the tog rating and flooring performance can be understood through the principles of heat transfer and sound dynamics. For instance, if a carpet underlay with an inappropriate tog rating is used—too high for underfloor heating—it can impede the effectiveness of the heating system, leading to discomfort and higher energy costs. Similarly, a mismatched tog rating can lead to inadequate sound absorption, resulting in echoes or noise disturbances, particularly in multi-story buildings. Thus, selecting the right tog rating not only enhances comfort but also ensures that the flooring system functions as intended.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting Tog Rated Underlay?
When selecting a tog rated underlay, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.
- Ignoring the Tog Rating: Many buyers overlook the importance of the tog rating, which measures thermal resistance. A higher tog rating indicates better insulation, which can be crucial for maintaining warmth in colder climates, thus impacting both comfort and energy efficiency.
- Not Considering Carpet Type: Different carpets work better with certain types of underlays. For example, a heavy pile carpet may require a denser underlay for optimal support, while a low pile carpet might not need as much cushioning, leading to a mismatch that can affect the carpet’s lifespan and feel.
- Overlooking Soundproofing Qualities: Some underlays provide sound insulation, which is essential in multi-story homes or apartments. Selecting an underlay without considering its soundproofing capabilities can lead to noise issues that could have been easily mitigated.
- Neglecting Foot Traffic Considerations: The level of foot traffic in the area where the carpet will be installed can influence your choice of underlay. High-traffic areas require more durable underlays to withstand wear and tear, while less frequented areas can use softer, less resilient options.
- Forgetting About Moisture Resistance: In areas prone to moisture, such as basements, it’s crucial to select an underlay that provides moisture resistance. Failing to do so can lead to mold growth and unpleasant odors, impacting the overall health of your indoor environment.
- Not Assessing Budget: While it can be tempting to choose the cheapest option, underlay is an investment that can impact your flooring’s performance and longevity. Balancing quality and budget is essential; sometimes spending a little more upfront can save you money in the long run through reduced replacement costs.