Carpet underlayment?

[BEMGOLF]

I went to Lowes and Home Depot and they have a limited supply that are around .40 to .98 per sf ft. I was wondering if anyone had used something better than this. Maybe a homemade option that might be better. Does anyone have a better solution other than the normal big hardware stores?

Thanks

 

[tattoo_Dan]

you're talking about carpet pad,right ?(I have never referred to it as "underlayment")


and I have never heard of any DIY for that.

I have had new carpet & padding installed in my HT/Living room & 2 offices and a hallway,and all I can say choose the thickest pad you can afford,you will thank yourself later.Don't skimp on carpet pad,cheap thin stuff compared to better quality thicker makes a HUGE difference.

the pad I bought both times was from a "carpet" store,but the selection at HD/lowes is fine IMO.

 

[ARES24]

Underlayment has little effect on the acoustical properties of your room. (if that is what you are asking)

The underlayment has more effect on the thermal properties in a basement and comfort level.

A thicker underlay is better in both respects.

 

[Gordonj]

"I went to Lowes and Home Depot and they have a limited supply that are around .40 to .98 per sf ft. I was wondering if anyone had used something better than this. Maybe a homemade option that might be better. Does anyone have a better solution other than the normal big hardware stores?"


I have been meaning to respond for days so I hope I'm not late...

If you are looking for an underlayment to help mitagate the transfer of "foot fall" and some acoustical information then a carpet padding will not do the trick. Underlayment for acoustical noise control either comes in a cork form or rubber/cork or rubber (the rubber is often used tires). It will come in various thicknesses and types and really depends on how the underlayment will be utilized and to what sub-straight the underlayment will be overlaid on.

The Acousticork product is a good product and comes in various forms and thicknesses -

Also for an idea of how the underlayment should be installed refer to their installation section -

Remember that an underlayment reduces the impact of foot fall and will add to the overall thickness and therefore increase the IIC/STC of a subfloor system. If you are trying to reduce a significant amount of noise or LF then underlayment will need to be part of an entire floor/ceiling system.

Hope this all helps!

Gordon

 

[Gordonj]

I realized that I did not answer your question directly, please forgive me.

Most of the underlayment product I have seen in the "big department stores" do not stand out as problem solvers. The underlayments that would have a dramatic impact on noise control would have to be ordered on-line or from a specialty supplier. A product I can recommend would be the AcoustiCORK product.

You can check it out here -http://www.acousticorkusa.com/products.php

You can also find installation information here - Acousticork USA

There are many different products to choose from it depends on many relatives...

Pricing varies greatly but you can easily find price quotes on-line. In general a thin layer of "acoustical underlayment" type product will not do much for LF transfer.

Hope that helps.

Gordon