10 Best Underlayment For Hardwood Floors 2025 in the United States

The STEICO Wood Fiber Flooring Underlayment is a robust choice for anyone looking to install laminate, vinyl, LVT, LVP, or hardwood floors. With a thickness of 3 millimeters (1/8 inch), it offers considerable soundproofing, enhancing the comfort of your living space by reducing noise transmission. This is particularly beneficial for multi-story buildings where noise between floors can be an issue. The natural fibers used in this underlayment are VOC and emission-free, providing a safer option with no harmful chemicals.

Its 'Vapor Open' technology is a strong feature, as it helps prevent moisture buildup under the floor, allowing air to circulate and reducing the risk of mold or mildew. However, while it can absorb up to 20% of its weight in water, this might not be sufficient for significant leaks, which could still pose a problem in very damp environments. The product is easy to install, capable of being layered for added leveling, which can be a plus for uneven subfloors.

Its high compression strength helps protect the flooring's click-lock system, ensuring a squeak-free and stable floor. On the downside, the total package weight of 800 pounds could make handling and transporting the product more challenging, especially for DIY enthusiasts. This underlayment would suit those looking for a natural, effective, and safe underlayment option for a variety of flooring types, provided they are prepared for the heavy handling.

The QuietWalk LV Underlayment is a versatile choice for those installing luxury vinyl, laminate, or wood flooring. It supports various installation methods such as floating, glue-down, or nail-down, making it adaptable to different flooring projects.

One of its standout features is advanced moisture protection technology, which is crucial for preventing damage caused by subfloor moisture. Additionally, its compression-resistant structure ensures durability, as it won't flatten under foot traffic, and its superior sound absorption will help keep noise levels down between rooms. For those environmentally conscious, it's made in the USA from recycled materials, contributing to a more eco-friendly choice.

Being PVC-free is a plus for those looking to avoid certain chemicals. This underlayment is particularly beneficial for homeowners or installers who need a reliable, moisture-resistant, and sound-absorbing solution for a variety of flooring types.

The FLOORLOT BlueStep Underlayment is a solid option for those looking to install laminate, engineered wood, or solid hardwood floors. One of its standout features is the built-in moisture barrier, which protects your floors from potentially harmful subfloor moisture without needing any additional films. This feature is crucial for maintaining the longevity of your flooring. Additionally, it offers standard sound absorption to help reduce noise from foot traffic and minimize the hollow sound often associated with floating floors, making it suitable for active households.

The underlayment is 3 millimeters thick, providing a good balance between cushioning and support. It also helps to smooth out minor subfloor imperfections, increasing both thermal and sound insulation for added comfort. Installation is simplified as the product is easy to roll out and comes with included tape for connecting seams.

However, it is worth noting that the product may not offer the highest level of sound reduction compared to some premium options available in the market. Additionally, while the 200 sq. ft. roll size is convenient, larger areas may require multiple rolls, potentially increasing the overall cost. Despite these minor drawbacks, the FLOORLOT BlueStep Underlayment provides an efficient and user-friendly solution for those seeking reliable moisture protection and ease of installation for their flooring projects.