Cushion and underlayment may not be the first products customers notice, but both have a major impact on the finished floor. Today’s options are being designed to address comfort, sound control and even moisture protection. For retailers and installers, that makes the right cushion or underlayment an important part of the overall flooring system.
Following are some of the top-performing cushion and underlayment options that suppliers are bringing to the marketplace.
DMX Membranes Limited
DMX 1-Step 2.0
DMX 1-Step 2.0 is a 100% waterproof underlayment, and the smarter system for moisture-prone applications. Unlike traditional flat foam underlayment that traps moisture, DMX’s unique air-gap design allows moisture to continuously evaporate and dissipate, helping prevent mold growth.
DMX 1-Step 2.0: No Mold. No Cold.
Foam Products
Eco Silencer Infinity Underlayment
Eco Silencer Infinity is a universal underlayment designed for residential and commercial flooring applications. Its built-in moisture protection exceeds standard 6-mil polyethylene vapor barrier requirements, eliminating the need for a separate vapor film. The 1.2mm high-density polyurethane foam core supports floating, glue-down and nail-down installations while helping reduce sound and bridge minor subfloor imperfections. Infinity also incorporates post-consumer recycled rubber.
Healthier Choice
Vapor Bloc
Healthier Choice’s Vapor Bloc is a moisture-management system designed to help protect flooring from vapor coming from below. Its lip-and-tape system joins underlayment sections to create a continuous protective layer beneath the finished floor. Vapor Bloc is available with OmniChoice and Sound Solution underlayments for luxury vinyl, laminate and wood applications. The high-density frothed polyurethane also helps reduce sound while providing durable support under hard surface flooring.
Leggett & Platt
Make-A-Wish Strength
This synthetic rubber crack isolation membrane provides acoustical performance for hard surface flooring. Strength features Block-Out thermo-reinforced barrier on top for spill protection, allowing moisture vapor from beneath to escape up through the product as it is rated a Class 3 Vapor Retarder.
Mohawk
Performance Accessories Platinum and Gold Underlayment
Mohawk Performance Accessories offers a moisture-management system with Platinum 3mm and Gold 2mm fan-fold underlayments. Both include a built-in moisture barrier while Platinum adds enhanced sound reduction, comfort and thermal insulation. PerimeterSeal protects vulnerable areas. Mohawk SmartCushion and Karastep Reserve are made for real life. PureDefense Moisture Barrier helps prevent spills from reaching the cushion and subfloor, allowing subfloor vapors to escape. Featuring memory foam, antimicrobial product protection, advanced odor fighting technology and better sound absorption.
MP Global
QuietWalk
The QuietWalk family of underlayments is designed to manage moisture from the ground up. Exclusive Dri-Wick technology uses dense recycled fibers to wick moisture vapor from the subfloor and direct it toward the perimeter, where it can dissipate naturally. An attached vapor barrier provides added protection for the finished flooring above.
Once installed, QuietWalk goes beyond moisture management by reducing impact noise, improving acoustics and adding thermal insulation for greater comfort. Its dense recycled fiber construction also resists compression, providing lasting support and performance beneath the floor.
Shaw
Pet Perfect Underlayment
TotalWorx Accessories Pet Perfect Underlayment’s moisture barrier helps guard against spills and accidents, while its superior sound reduction creates a quieter home. Engineered for long-lasting performance, Pet Perfect Underlayment also provides added cushioning for a more comfortable step. Easy to install and compatible with a wide range of flooring, it’s the perfect choice for families who want peace of mind, enhanced comfort and a pet-friendly foundation.
Pet Perfect Carpet Cushion
Pet Perfect Carpet Cushion provides antimicrobial protection against mold, mildew and odor-causing bacteria, ensuring a clean and healthy environment. It features activated carbon, which provides additional odor control, keeping your space fresh and inviting, and enhanced memory foam that provides maximum comfort.
UnSquashable Padding
UnSquashable’s PetShield
UnSquashable’s PetShield Rug Pad and PetiBarrier Carpet Cushion are designed to add moisture protection beneath the finished floor. Both products help block spills, overflows and pet accidents from reaching the subfloor.
The products give retailers a way to extend the waterproof conversation beyond the surface while addressing consumer concerns around pets, children and everyday household spills.
