13 best qep underlayments

QEP (Quality, Excellence, Performance) is a company that produces various products related to flooring and tiling, including underlayments. Underlayments are materials that are installed beneath flooring to provide support, stability, and additional features like moisture resistance or sound insulation.

QEP underlayments are designed to enhance the performance of flooring installations. They can be used under different types of flooring, such as laminate, hardwood, or tile. Some common features of QEP underlayments may include moisture barriers to protect against water damage, sound-absorbing properties to reduce noise, and thermal insulation for added comfort.

When selecting a QEP underlayment, it's essential to consider the specific requirements of your flooring project. Different types of underlayments may be suitable for various flooring materials and conditions. Additionally, reading product specifications and user reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance and suitability of a particular QEP underlayment for your needs.

If you have specific questions or if there's anything particular you'd like to know about QEP underlayments, feel free to ask!

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best qep underlayments on the market
  

QEP 72003Q 1/4-Inch, 6mm, 4-Foot x 25-Foot Cork Underlayment

QEP

Based on 203 reviews Check latest price

Product description

QEP 72003 1/4-Inch (6mm) Natural Cork Underlayment reduces sound transmission from both the surface of a floor, as well as through the floor to living spaces below. It is engineered for high performance under porcelain, ceramic, marble, slate, stone, laminate, engineered wood and hardwood flooring. The natural cork underlayment also acts as a crack isolation membrane that resists transfer of stress cracks from subfloor through to flooring surfaces. Underlayment is easy to install and can be used under ceramic tile, stone, marble, engineered hardwood and laminate floors. Best installation practices include Roberts Cork Adhesive and a 75 pound roller.

From the Manufacturer

QEP 72003 1/4-Inch (6mm) Natural Cork Underlayment reduces sound transmission from both the surface of a floor, as well as through the floor to living spaces below. It is engineered for high performance under porcelain, ceramic, marble, slate, stone, laminate, engineered wood and hardwood flooring. The natural cork underlayment also acts as a crack isolation membrane that resists transfer of stress cracks from subfloor through to flooring surfaces. Underlayment is easy to install and can be used under ceramic tile, stone, marble, engineered hardwood and laminate floors. Best installation practices include Roberts Cork Adhesive and a 75 pound roller.

  • Easy to install in both glue-down and looselay configurations
  • Coverage: 100 sq ft/roll Dimensions: 25-ft x 4-ft x 1/4-in
  • Reduces thermal transmission, increasing the effectiveness of floor heating systems
  • STC rating of 52 and IIC rating of 51 with 6-Inch cement slab
  • STC rating of 60 and IIC rating of 61 with 6-Inch cement slab and suspended ceiling

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this with peel and stick plank flooring
Answer: Thinset will not bond well to certain types of tiles. You will need to consult with a thinset manufacturer to make sure you can get a good bond between the tile and membrane.
Question: does this require a vapor barrier underneath
Answer: The membrane goes directly onto the sub-floor and then heating wire is snapped in between the pillars of the membrane. A heating mat is a different product that does not work with membrane like this. For this you need loose wire that will snap into it.
Question: Is this cork pliable enough to be molded into the groove in the floor of a van
Answer: Heating element wire sold separately.
Question: would this work as a shelf liner? Does it easily cut and maintain a smooth edge
Answer: Yes

QEP 72008Q Underlayment, Brown

QEP

Based on 71 reviews Check latest price

Product description

QEP's Natural Cork Underlayment is now available in 1/8 inch thickness in a convenient 200 sq. ft. roll. Natural cork is the sustainable underlayment choice for many types of flooring, including: ceramic and porcelain tile, stone, marble and engineered hardwood and laminate floors. Cork is also a healthy choice; it is naturally hypoallergenic and contributes in creating healthy indoor air quality. Install like a professional by using Roberts 7250 Cork Adhesive.

From the Manufacturer

The QEP 72008Q Natural Cork Underlayment is now available in a convenient 200 sq. ft. roll. Natural cork is an outstanding sound barrier for all types of flooring, including: ceramic and porcelain tile, stone, marble, and engineered hardwood and laminate floors. Besides being an environmentally friendly option, cork is also a healthy choice. It is naturally a hypoallergenic, and contributes in creating a healthy indoor air quality.

  • Sound and crack isolation underlayment for tile, laminate and floated or glue-down wood floors
  • Natural cork from Portugal
  • 200 sq. ft. roll
  • An outstanding sound barrier, cork reduces sound transmission from both the surface of the floor, as well as through the floor to living space above or below
  • Use under ceramic tile, stone, marble, engineered hardwood and laminate floors
  • Reduces thermal transmission, increasing the effectiveness of floor heating systems
  • A natural substance, cork helps repel insects, pests, mites, and termites

User questions & answers

Question: Can i use this under 3/8inch engineered flooring that will be nailed in place
Answer: The roll itself is not sticky, however it think that it would be a very interesting project.
Question: Did the roll(s) arrive packaged well and in good condition? I've heard that the material is pretty fragile and gets banged up in shipping. Thanks
Answer: If you have boards as floor yes.if it's plywood maybe not as much.if your vapor barrier is under plywood not as much.but I put Tar paper under my plywood and just 1/4 cork on top of plywood.JG
Question: Is there such a thing as 1/2 inch underlayment
Answer: No. It will crack.
Question: Is this cork treated with any type of chemical, and if so, do you know what
Answer: This is probably thicker than you'd like for shelf liner but it can be certainly used in that fashion. It is definitely easy to cut and I think it will maintain a smooth edge once it flattens.

QEP Natural Cork Underlayment Roll - 1/4" (6 mm) - 200 sq. ft., 48" x 50' (72000Q)

QEP

Based on 160 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Cork Underlayment reduces sound and thermal transmission and helps protect the floor against the transfer of stress cracks from the subfloor.

From the Manufacturer

Cork Underlayment reduces sound and thermal transmission and helps protect the floor against the transfer of stress cracks from the subfloor

  • For use with ceramic and porcelain tile, stone, marble, engineered hardwood and laminate floors
  • Crack isolation membrane that resists the transfer of stress cracks from subfloor through to flooring surfaces
  • Acoustical sound control under ceramic tile and stone for less sound transfer throughout the room
  • Easy to install in both glue-down and loose-lay configurations
  • Green product constructed of natural cork, a renewable resource
  • Reduces thermal transmission, increasing the effectiveness of floor heating systems
  • 200 sq. ft. roll measuring 48 in. x 50 ft.

User questions & answers

Question: For proper installation, does this require adhesive to bond to subfloor, or is it considered "glueless
Answer: Yes, just use longer nails.
Question: I need to raise floor level 1/4" to match an a joining room before laying laminate I in both rooms. Should I use this cork underlayment or plywood
Answer: Yes but the roll is in roll shape so you need tape to install it properly flat
Question: I have in floor radiant heat, the thermal resistance of the cork is not going to reduce the floor's ability to heat the space
Answer: I used 1/4 inch
Question: how long is the roll of cork
Answer: i did not smell anything chemical.

QEP 72001Q Natural Cork Underlayment 1/2 inch Sheet 150 sq. ft. (25 sheets)

QEP

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Cork Underlayment reduces sound and thermal transmission and helps protect the floor against the transfer of stress cracks from the subfloor. Size:150 sq.ft./case - 2'' x 3'' x 1/2"

  • Reduces sound transmission from both the surface of a floor as well as through the floor to living spaces below
  • Use under ceramic tile, stone, marble, engineered hardwood and laminate floors
  • Acts as a crack isolation membrane that resists transfer of stress cracks from subfloor through to flooring surfaces
  • Reduces thermal transmission, increasing the effectiveness of floor heating systems
  • Easy to install in both glue-down and loose-lay configurations

User questions & answers

Question: Does it smell chemicals?/ Thanks
Answer: It depends on what type of floor you are laying. For floating floors such as click laminate or hardwood, it does not need to be glued. Tape the seams with duct tape and lay your floor. If you are glueing down hardwood, the cork needs to be glued to the subfloor.
Question: Can i lay this on top of a hard wood floor and then put padding and carpeting over it to soundproof my floor to make it quiet for my neighbor below
Answer: You can use either. Cork will transmit less noise. If the laminate is floating, you don't have to glue down the cork, just tape the seems. If you are gluing down the laminate, you would have to glue down the cork first. In either case, the 1/4" plywood would be stapled down with a pneumatic stapler (or screwed, but that is a lot of work). Staples every 4-5" in the body of the plywood, every 2" around the edge. This is assuming that you have a plywood subfloor, not concrete.
Question: Would this help dampen the sound of a treadmill? I live in a 2nd floor apartment
Answer: Cork is an outstanding insulator and can be used under the radiant heat elements - typically on concrete. I have radiant heat floors in the bathrooms. I did not use cork underlayment however because I live in Florida and did not have to concern my self too much with the time to heat a floor. I did talk with the manufactuer (Warm Touch) and they suggested underlayment (like Cork) under radiant heat if you are in climates where it gets cold. It allows the floor to heat quicker and reduce heat losses into the subflooring. I used this product under all my wood floors - it is awesome. Cork is a sustainable product, moisture resistant and bugs do not like it.
Question: We will be installing strand bamboo over our concrete slab. Is this cork underlayment all we need or should we install a moisture barrier too
Answer: It's 4 ft x 50 ft

Roberts 70-025 Qep 70-029 Unison Underlayment, 48 In W X 25 Ft L, Polyethylene, 100 Sq Roll

Roberts

Based on 214 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Qep unison underlayment, 48 in width, 25 ft length, polyethylene. An under-pad to support laminate and engineered wood type floating floors; it's 3/32" polyethylene foam increases cushioning between flooring and subfloor; 4" film overlap with adhesive strip for seamless protection; top film protects from harmful moisture vapor; coverage: 100 square feet. Stc: 54 11C: 61.

From the Manufacturer

Roberts Unison is an engineered 2-in-1 foam underlayment for laminate and engineered wood flooring. Unison is designed to provide both moisture protection and cushioning as an under-pad on floating floors. Each roll includes a 3 inch overlap with an adhesive strip to seal out moisture at the seams.

  • Easy to use rolls of 100 sq Ft., measuring 4 feet x 25 feet x 3/32 Inch
  • 3/32 In polyethylene foam increases cushioning between flooring and sub floor
  • 3 In film overlap with adhesive strip for seamless protection
  • 2 mil. thick top film protects from harmful moisture vapor

User questions & answers

Question: what is 2 in 1 or 3 in
Answer: No smell. If you use it as a flooring, make sure to use a non-toxic glue underlayment.
Question: Do I need Underlayment if it's for upstairs (plywood) with no Moisture
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. This is not a warranted application however it will add sound dampening protection to your installation.
Question: will this work as vapor barrier between rv roof framing and aluminum roof
Answer: Very much so. I used it in my second floor. 800 sq ft
Question: How is it with sound proofing? There are a lot of 'quiet' products out there. do i need to buy those over this for my engineered wood floor
Answer: its really thin, much thinner than I thought it would be. I would definitely install a moisture barrier not only for moisture but for additional underpayment if you choose this product.

QEP 72000Q 1/4 Inch Cork Underlayment 200-Feet Square Roll for Ceramic and Porcelain Tile or Laminate and Wood Floors (3-(Pack))

Roberts 70-193A Super 360 sq 60 in. x 72 ft. x 3 mm Felt Cushion Roll for Engineered Wood and Laminate Flooring Underlayment

Roberts

Based on 548 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The ROBERTS Super Felt premium underlayment is a 3 mm thick insulating underlayment made to reduce noise and help cushion flooring. By absorbing noise instead of deflecting it, Super Felt reduces sound transmission. This felt underlayment is made from recycled fibers and compressed using a high heat manufacturing process. The film overlay protects engineered and laminate flooring from any moisture from the subfloor and includes a 1-3/4 in. adhesive strip and 3 in. overlap for linking multiple rolls. Keeps floors warmer in winter and cooler in summer

From the Manufacturer

The Roberts 70-193 Super Felt Premium Underlayment is a 4mm thick insulating underlayment made to reduce noise and help cushion flooring. By absorbing noise instead of deflecting it, Super Felt provides a deep, rich sound. This felt underlayment is made from recycled fibers and compressed using a high heat manufacturing process. The film overlay protects engineered and laminate flooring from any moisture from the subfloor and includes an adhesive strip and 1-3/4-Inch overlap for linking multiple rolls.

  • For use with engineered wood and laminate flooring
  • Provides cushion over concrete and wood subfloors
  • 360-Feet square roll.The IIC and STC tests measure sound transference from an upper level room to a lower level room. The IIC measures sound such as moving furniture and walking, while the STC measures sound such as voices and television.
  • Sound Transmission Lost Test (STC) rating of 66
  • Impact Sound Transmission Test (IIC) rating of 67
  • 360 sq. ft. roll (60in. x 72ft.) 1/cs

User questions & answers

Question: Does this work for engineered vinyl planks
Answer: yes it works great under engineered vinyl planks. I used it on a concrete slab and then placed my vinyl planks and it worked great. Would definitely use this product again. Highly recommended.
Question: The plastic film, does it act as a vapor barrier or do you need a separate vapor barrier
Answer: The plastic film attached to the pad is a vapor barrier. Unless you have a high moisture problem where it's recommended you completely seal the subfloor, the Roberts 70-193 pad is good to go as-is.
Question: Is this the same product that Home Depot carries
Answer: It's the same one that they sell online. They do not carry it at my local Home Depot. Great product. I'm happy with it
Question: Can this be used with hardwood floors? (bamboo is not considered hardwood
Answer: Yes - I have used this both with hardwood and laminate. flooring

Roberts 70-010-XL Underlayment

Roberts

Based on 130 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Roberts Serenity XL Polyethylene Foam Underlayment is designed for use under floating laminate and engineered wood flooring. Serenity XL 3/32" Polyethylene Foam adds cushioning and compensates for minor imperfections in the subfloor. Serenity XL can be used alone in above-grade installations and in conjunction with a moisture barrier for below grade. Serenity XL is also suitable for use over radiant heated flooring systems. Serenity XL comes in a convenient 4' X 100' roll, providing 400 sq ft of coverage.

  • 3/32 inch (93.75 mil) thick Polyethylene Foam for laminate and engineered wood flooring
  • Adds comfort and cushioning to your flooring installation
  • Easy to handle, roll out, and install 400 sq. ft. roll
  • Corrects minor subfloor imperfections

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work as a sound/cushion for smartcore rigid vinyl plank flooring? it's very similar to laminate but waterproof
Answer: Description says 2 in 1. Not sure where you get 3? Wood - laminate 2. Moisture - cushion 2?
Question: Is this product 3 in
Answer: There's always some moisture in wood, upstairs or not. Even if it's completely dry, there's always the chance of water leakage getting under the floor and causing some warping. I'd play it safe and use an underlayment, even if it's only 15-pound asphalt paper, which is inexpensive.
Question: Do i need a moisture barrier as well or does this product act as one? flooring is going to be in living room, above grade
Answer: i dont see why it would not. i have had it on my floor between my sub grade basement cement and my wood floor for about 5 years, never any sign of moisture, and keeps the floor warm and more quiet. might do the same for your purpose
Question: Will this product work under plank vinyl flooring installed on a cement slab
Answer: My purpose for purchasing this product was for a moisture barrier and cushioning. I used it over a concrete slab. Cannot speak to the sound proofing qualities. My floor was quiet to walk on and had just enough give to let me appreciate that it was wood and no longer vinyl over concrete. I would buy this product again.

12mm (1/2") Cork Underlayment (Box of 48 sq ft)

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

12mm (1/2 inch) Cork Underlayment Sheets are made from natural cork. Cork Underlayment is a natural sound insulator and will work with both wood floors and tiles to help reduce walking noise and act as a thermal insulator. Sheet is 6 sq. ft. (12mm x 2' x 3'). Box contains 8 sheets or 48 sq. ft.

  • AVAILABLE IN BOXES OF 8 SHEETS
  • Total Surface Area Per Box: 48 sq. ft.
  • Sheet Size: 6 sq. ft. (2' x 3')
  • Sheet Thickness: 1/2" (12mm)
  • Made in Europe

User questions & answers

Question: Are there any chemicals used in processing/preserving the cork (i.e., formaldehyde
Answer: No, you should buy something of better quality.
Question: Can this product be used on a wall for sound proofing and push pin useage
Answer: No. It is just a foam underpayment, no vapor barrier, no acoustical dampening, just plain old foam! It worked great for a foam underpayment and the price was way better than any box store
Question: Is this 12mm or 3mm? Product description says 12mm up front, but later contradicts that by saying sheets are 3mm x 2' x
Answer: This is all you need for a living room. The barrier material is needed only on concrete floors, as in a basement.
Question: Is it sold only in packs of 8 pieces as I only need 11 pieces
Answer: I would say "maybe". After researching extensively, my conclusion is that some level of additional underlayment for LVP (luxury vinyl plank) can help minimize floor creaking, popping, etc. However, further research has shown that an additional underlayment can cause other problems, specifically by causing (over time) the joints to separate. The general consensus among many flooring pros is that a minimal (i.e. less than 1 mm thickness) additional underlayment is safe for LVP. I am currently installing U.S. Floors/Coretec HD in my home (wider plank, 8.5 mm thickness) and I reached out to the manufacturer about additional underlayment to confirm it wouldn't void the warranty. They emailed this morning and advised that as long as the subfloor is clean/level, additional underlayment UP TO 3 mm thickness would be acceptable as long as the density exceeds 11.7lb/ft3. My working understanding, based on hours and hours of research, is that thinner (both width/thickness) LVT planks would likely be more susceptible to seam separation if an underlayment in excess of 1mm is used while the wider/thicker (and heavier) LVT planks would likely be fine with 1-3 mm additional underlayment. As always, relying upon the manufacturer's recommendations, warranty, etc. is the way to go.

Roberts 70-115 Moisture Barricade Underlayment, For Laminate Floors, 6 Mil. Thick Polyethylene Film, 120 Sq. Foot Roll

Roberts

Based on 165 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Roberts MoistureBarricade Polyethylene Film is designed for use with laminate and engineered wood flooring underlayments. MoistureBarricade provides a barrier for moisture protection over cement slabs. This 120 sq. ft. roll opens to a full 12 ft. x 10 ft. area and includes an adhesive strip for 3 inch overlaps with additional sheets.

From the Manufacturer

A 120 square foot roll of polyethylene film for use under all laminate and engineered wood floating floors. Provides a moisture barrier to protect laminate and wood floors.

  • Used with standard foam underlayments to protect against moisture
  • 6 mil. thick polyethylene film for long life
  • Roll unfolds to a 10 foot by 12 foot area
  • Use with laminate flooring with pre-attached underlayment

User questions & answers

Question: What tape should I use for the joints that don't already have the tape
Answer: No formaldehyde. There is a polyurethane binder that keep the cork granules bonded together. Cork Underlayment is loved because it resists moisture and is hypoallergenic...in addition to made from sustainable cork trees, cork is a superior sound and thermal insulator. Even engineered floors feel more like hardwood floors when using cork underlayment.
Question: Can you use this with felt for under wood floors
Answer: I just glued this to a sheet of plywood using cork underlay adhesive. I plan to cover it with a map and use push pins. Looks like it’s going to work so far!
Question: Can this be used under carpet
Answer: Ummm, I purchased 2' x 4' x .5" panels to use as underlayment for new floor. Hope this helps.
Question: Is this product ideal for dirt floor in crawl space
Answer: Yes, this product can only be sold in packs of 8 sheets.

QEP Lash 1 in. H x 1/16 in. W Plastic Tile Spacer Clips 300 pk

Qep Co Inc

Product description

FLAT LASH CLIPS

Sub Brand: Lash

Height: 1 in.

Width: 1/16 in.

Material: Plastic

Product Type: Tile Spacer Clips

Number in Package: 300 pk

Comfort Grip: No

Packaging Type: Bagged

Color: White

Roberts 70-190A 70-190 Super Felt Insulating Underlayment, 3 mm T, 27-1/3 Ft L X 44 In W, Recycled Fiber, 100 Sq Roll

Roberts

Based on 409 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Super Felt Insulating Underlayment, 4 mm Thickness, 44 in Width, 27-1/3 ft Length, Recycled Fiber, For Concrete and Wood Subfloors. Super Felt is 3mm thick insulating underlayment made to reduce noise and help cushion flooring; by absorbing noise instead of deflecting it, "Super Felt" provides a deep, rich sound; this felt underlayment is made from recycled fibers and compressed using a high heat manufacturing process; the film overlay protects engineered and laminate flooring from any moisture from the subfloor and includes an adhesive strip and 2-1/2" overlap for linking multiple rolls; keep floors warm in winter and cool in summer; for use over concrete and wood subfloors; coverage: 100 square feet per roll. STC:66 11C:67; Rating: 21, RValue:58.

From the Manufacturer

Super Felt is a 3mm thick insulating underlayment made to reduce noise and help cushion flooring. By absorbing noise instead of deflecting it, Super Felt provides a deep, rich sound. This felt underlayment is made from recycled fibers and compressed using a high heat manufacturing process. The film overlay protects engineered and laminate flooring from any moisture from the subfloor and includes an adhesive strip and 1-3/4” overlap for linking multiple rolls.

  • Provides deep, rich sound by absorbing noise instead of deflecting it
  • Made from recycled fibers
  • Extremely high temperature manufacturing process treats fibers
  • 3mm thick pad corrects minor sub-floor imperfections
  • IIC 67, STC 66 ? Rating 21

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be used as padding under an oriental/area rug
Answer: One roll per package
Question: Would this product be good for putting under the bed to block out music from downstairs neighbor
Answer: 432 sq ft / roll yes
Question: Hi -- i have a small upstairs room directly above the downstairs tv. can i put this under carpet just to muffle sound
Answer: About the thickness of 3 sheets of computer paper
Question: What is the R value
Answer: the manufacturer says it does on the spec sheet. so, yes

ROBERTS 50-545 2-1/2 Inch by 25 Foot Roll of Rug Traction Indoor Anti-Slip Rug Strip Rubber Tape

Based on 527 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Roberts HOMEeasy Traction Indoor 25-Feet Non-Slip Rug Holding Strip offers non-slip strength to keep a rug in place on tile, marble, laminate, wood and other flooring surfaces. The rug holding strip is safe, non-toxic and odor free.

From the Manufacturer

Traction Non-Slip Rug Holding Strip is the perfect solution for keeping rugs in place on tile, marble, laminate, wood and other flooring surfaces. Design engineered with rubber Rhino-Skin texture for superior non-slip strength that holds rugs and mats in place. Simply tape Traction to the back of the rug or mat. Will not stain or discolor the floor. Remains attached to the rug even when repositioned.

  • Remains attached to the rug, even when repositioned
  • Makes vacuuming easier
  • 2-1/2 in. x 25 ft. roll
  • Helps keep rugs in place on tile, marble, laminate, wood and other flooring surfaces
  • Will not stain or discolor the floor

User questions & answers

Question: Is this tape washable??? I want to use it on bathroom throw rugs
Answer: 5561USR Sheathing Tape is suggested by Amazon. I am not familiar with any joints that already have tape applied, as the product I received did not have pre-applied tape.
Question: Would I stick this tape directly onto the rug itself? It doesn't stick to the floor, correct
Answer: If by felt you mean moisture-proof paper, yes
Question: Will this work to hold a hard plastic chair mat to carpeting
Answer: I'm not sure. I used it as a vapor barrier under laminate flooring. I think that's what it's made for.
Question: Would this hold my keyboard in place if I were in an inverted position
Answer: I used it for concrete floor and laminate floors. Not sure about dirt floor. I would suggest you call the manufactures customer support.

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