Carpet underlay can play an important role in acoustics by absorbing sound and reducing noise transmission. When sound waves hit a surface, they can be reflected, absorbed, or transmitted through the material. Carpet underlay is designed to absorb sound waves, reducing the amount of sound that is transmitted through the floor and into other rooms or spaces.

The acoustic performance of carpet underlay is measured using a metric known as impact sound insulation, which refers to the ability of the underlay to absorb the impact of footsteps and other sounds. A higher impact sound insulation value indicates better acoustic performance, as more sound is absorbed by the underlay and less is transmitted through the floor.

Carpet underlay can also be designed with specific acoustic properties to meet the needs of different environments. For example, in commercial spaces where noise is a concern, underlay may be designed to provide high levels of sound absorption and insulation. In residential settings, underlay may be designed to provide both acoustic and thermal insulation, improving the overall comfort of a home.

In addition to the acoustic properties of the underlay itself, the type of carpet and its installation method can also affect the acoustics of a space. For example, carpets with a higher pile density and tighter tufting can provide better sound absorption than those with a looser pile. Proper installation of the carpet and underlay is also important to ensure maximum acoustic performance.

To compare the acoustic rating of our underlays, click here.