Tile floors are a durable and stylish choice, but if you’ve ever tiptoed across a tiled room only to hear the sound echo through the space, you know they’re not the quietest option. That’s where tile underlayments come in. Choosing the right one can transform a noisy home into a peaceful sanctuary. This guide will walk you through the best tile underlayments for noise reduction, their benefits, and how to select the perfect option for your needs.
For many homeowners, noise is a significant concern, especially in homes with open floor plans, multi-level layouts, or tiled kitchens and bathrooms. Tile underlayments act as a barrier between the subfloor and the tile, absorbing and dampening sound vibrations. They’re particularly useful in reducing:
But noise reduction isn’t their only benefit. Underlayments can also provide thermal insulation, improve the structural integrity of your flooring, and prevent cracks in your tiles caused by subfloor movement. When you invest in the right underlayment, you’re not only prioritizing quiet but also enhancing the longevity of your floors.
Before we explore specific underlayment options, it’s essential to know what features make a great noise-reducing underlayment. Here’s what to look for:
Different materials offer varying degrees of soundproofing. Rubber, cork, foam, and polyethylene are common materials, each with unique properties that affect sound absorption.
These standardized ratings indicate how effective the underlayment is at reducing noise:
The underlayment should be compatible with tile flooring and capable of withstanding heavy loads without compressing over time.
If you're taking the DIY route, look for underlayments that are lightweight, pre-cut, or come with adhesive backing for easy installation.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at the best options available for homeowners and contractors alike.
Material: Polyethylene
STC/IIC Ratings: STC 54, IIC 62
Schluter-DITRA is a go-to solution for many professionals. This underlayment effectively absorbs impact noise and prevents cracking in tile. Designed specifically for tiled floors, it also ensures even water resistance, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
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Material: Recycled fibers
STC/IIC Ratings: STC 66, IIC 71
QuietWalk provides exceptional soundproofing for tile and stone flooring. It’s eco-friendly, made from recycled materials, and can also offer thermal insulation for colder spaces.
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Material: Felt
STC/IIC Ratings: STC 66, IIC 67
Known for its soft yet durable design, ROBERTS Super Felt is an affordable choice that balances performance and budget. While not as durable as rubber options, it’s still effective in reducing both airborne and impact noise.
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Material: Cork
STC/IIC Ratings: STC 50, IIC 52
For environmentally-conscious homeowners, cork offers a sustainable and effective option. We Cork’s WECU underlayment is lightweight, easy to install, and great for reducing airborne noise in living rooms or dining spaces.
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Material: Rubber
STC/IIC Ratings: STC 70, IIC 72
If you’re dealing with heavy impact noise, ProFlex is one of the best-performing rubber options. With unrivaled soundproofing capabilities, it’s ideal for multi-level homes or apartments where noise transfer is a concern.
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Material: Polyethylene Foam
STC/IIC Ratings: STC 59, IIC 74
True to its name, FloorMuffler is one of the quietest underlayments available. Lightweight and easy to install, it’s perfect for DIY-ers looking for a quick yet effective solution.
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When choosing an underlayment, consider these factors alongside soundproofing capabilities:
Transforming a noisy room into a serene space starts from the ground up. With the right tile underlayment, you’re not only reducing noise but also enhancing the functionality and lifespan of your floors.
Whether you’re after cork’s sustainability, rubber’s impact resistance, or polyethylene’s versatility, each option offers a reliable way to enjoy a quieter home. Review your specific needs, and don’t hesitate to invest in the underlayment that aligns with your lifestyle.
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Austin, TX 78744
512-312-7956