The Importance of Underfloor Insulation for Parquet Floors

When selecting parquet flooring for a home or workplace, most people tend to focus only on the surface. Factors such as color, pattern, material quality, and durability usually take center stage. However, the longevity, comfort, and acoustic performance of parquet flooring do not depend solely on the visible surface — they are also directly influenced by the insulation material applied underneath.

Proper underfloor insulation not only extends the lifespan of parquet but also provides effective thermal and sound insulation, prevents moisture and dampness, and contributes to energy savings. In apartment buildings, insulation is crucial to minimize noise transmission between floors, while in ground-floor areas it serves as a vital moisture barrier.

In this article, we will explore in detail why underfloor insulation is essential, the different types of insulation materials available, which solutions work best for various usage scenarios, and the common mistakes to avoid during installation.

The Importance of Underfloor Insulation

Sound Insulation

Proper underfloor insulation greatly reduces footstep noise and vibrations caused by daily movement or shifting furniture. By limiting sound transmission to lower floors, it creates a quieter, more peaceful, and comfortable living environment — an essential feature in apartment buildings and multi-story homes.

Thermal Insulation

The right insulation material prevents heat loss through the floor, ensuring that interiors remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Beyond improving comfort, this also results in considerable long-term energy savings by reducing heating and cooling costs.

Moisture and Damp Protection

On ground floors or in naturally humid environments, parquet flooring is vulnerable to swelling, warping, and damage from rising dampness. A high-quality insulation layer acts as a protective moisture barrier, shielding parquet from these risks and extending its durability.

Extending the Lifespan of Parquet

Insulation helps absorb minor irregularities in the subfloor, preventing stress on the parquet surface. This reduces the likelihood of bending, squeaking, or swelling over time, thereby prolonging the overall lifespan of flooring and minimizing maintenance costs.

Walking Comfort

An insulated underlay provides a softer feel underfoot, enhancing walking comfort while reducing impact noise. It improves overall acoustic performance and user experience, making interiors feel more premium and enjoyable.

Types of Underfloor Insulation Materials

1. Polyethylene (PE) Foam Underlay

One of the most common and cost-effective solutions.

1. Advantages: Lightweight, flexible, and easy to apply. Provides basic levels of both sound and thermal insulation, making it suitable for quick installations.
2. Disadvantages: Limited durability; may deform or flatten over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
3. Best Use: Homes with light to medium foot traffic where an affordable and simple solution is sufficient.

2. Cork Underlay

A natural, eco-friendly material known for its superior insulation properties.

1. Advantages: Excellent performance in both sound and thermal insulation. Highly durable, long-lasting, and sustainable. Adds premium comfort underfoot.
2. Disadvantages: More expensive compared to PE foam, increasing upfront costs.
3. Best Use: Residential projects, offices, and luxury interiors where both performance and sustainability are prioritized.

3. XPS Board (Extruded Polystyrene)

A rigid, high-density board offering superior strength and insulation.

1. Advantages: Excellent thermal insulation; resistant to impact and moisture, making it ideal for damp or cold environments. Provides stability to subfloors.
2. Disadvantages: More complex installation compared to flexible underlays; requires professional fitting.
3. Best Use: Ground floors, basements, and properties in colder climates where strong thermal protection is essential.

4. Felt Underlay

Manufactured from compressed fibers, often recycled, providing impressive acoustic benefits.

1. Advantages: Excellent sound absorption; highly durable under heavy traffic; environmentally friendly in many cases.
2. Disadvantages: Sensitive to water and not recommended for humid or damp environments.
3. Best Use: Offices, commercial spaces, and high-footfall areas where effective sound reduction is critical.

5. Aluminum Foil-Coated Insulation

Insulation with a foil layer designed to act as a moisture barrier.

1. Advantages: Blocks rising dampness and prevents parquet swelling; reflective surface adds additional thermal benefits.
2. Disadvantages: Slightly higher cost than standard foam solutions.
3. Best Use: Ground floors, basements, and environments where moisture risk is high.

6. Combined Systems

Premium underlays that integrate multiple layers for all-round performance.

1. Advantages: Provide sound, heat, and moisture insulation simultaneously. Deliver unmatched comfort, durability, and premium protection.
2. Disadvantages: Higher initial cost compared to standard materials; not always necessary for budget projects.
3. Best Use: Luxury homes, high-end parquet projects, and spaces where maximum performance is required.

Which Insulation Should Be Used Where?

Different environments have different requirements. Choosing the right insulation material based on location and usage ensures maximum comfort and durability:

1. Apartment Buildings: Noise reduction is the top priority. Cork or felt underlay is ideal for minimizing footstep noise and improving acoustic comfort.
2. Ground Floors: Moisture protection is essential. Aluminum foil-coated insulation or XPS boards provide an effective barrier against dampness and protect parquet from swelling.
3. Cold Climates: Strong thermal insulation is necessary. XPS boards or cork underlay deliver excellent heat retention and help lower energy costs.
4. Offices & Commercial Spaces: High traffic requires durable materials. Felt or combined systems are the best choice for long-lasting performance and sound control.
5. Villas & Detached Houses: A balance of sound and thermal insulation is crucial. Combined systems provide premium comfort by offering all-in-one protection.

Consequences of Skipping Insulation

Failing to use proper underfloor insulation can lead to several long-term problems:

1. Swelling and Cracking of Parquet: Without a protective barrier, parquet is exposed to moisture and structural stress, which can cause visible swelling, warping, or cracks.
2. Noise Transmission to Lower Floors: Footsteps and furniture movement easily transfer to lower levels, reducing comfort for both residents and neighbors.
3. Annoying Squeaky Sounds When Walking: Uneven pressure and lack of cushioning lead to creaking and squeaking noises over time.
4. Heat Loss and Higher Energy Bills: Floors without insulation allow heat to escape, resulting in uncomfortable indoor temperatures and increased heating costs.
5. Shortened Parquet Lifespan: Constant exposure to moisture, temperature changes, and mechanical stress significantly reduces the durability and overall life expectancy of parquet flooring.

Key Considerations in Underfloor Insulation

To achieve maximum performance and durability, several important factors should be taken into account when selecting and installing underfloor insulation:

1. Correct Thickness Selection: Choosing the right thickness is essential. If the material is too thin, it will not provide effective insulation. If it is too thick, it can interfere with the parquet’s locking system and cause installation issues.
2. Material Choice Based on Space: Each environment has different needs. For ground floors, a moisture barrier is crucial, while in apartments, sound insulation should be prioritized. Offices and high-traffic areas require more durable solutions such as felt or combined systems.
3. Professional Installation: Insulation must be laid continuously without gaps or overlaps. Improper installation can create weak points that reduce effectiveness and lead to long-term issues.
4. Avoid Using the Wrong Materials: Selecting inappropriate materials can result in costly problems. For example, using only PE foam on ground floors will not prevent moisture damage, leaving parquet vulnerable to swelling and warping.

Comfort Provided by Parquet + Insulation

When parquet flooring is paired with the right underfloor insulation, the benefits go far beyond aesthetics. It creates healthier, quieter, and more energy-efficient environments across a wide range of spaces:

1. Homes: Insulation reduces footstep noise, provides a warmer atmosphere in winter and a cooler one in summer, and helps extend the lifespan of parquet. Families enjoy quieter, more comfortable living spaces with lower energy bills.
2. Offices: A professional appearance combined with noise reduction improves concentration and productivity. Employees benefit from a calmer workspace, while companies gain from reduced maintenance and long-term durability.
3. Commercial Spaces: Stores, restaurants, and shopping areas experience better durability against heavy foot traffic. Lower maintenance costs and quieter interiors enhance the customer experience, encouraging longer stays.
4. Educational Facilities: In schools and universities, sound insulation creates quieter classrooms and lecture halls. Better thermal comfort also helps improve student focus and learning outcomes.
5. Healthcare Centers: Hospitals and clinics require hygienic and stable environments. Underfloor insulation helps maintain temperature balance, reduces noise, and contributes to patient comfort and well-being.
6. Hotels & Hospitality: Guest satisfaction depends heavily on comfort. Insulated parquet floors minimize hallway and room noise, provide thermal stability, and add a sense of premium quality to the overall experience.

Common Mistakes in Underfloor Insulation

Skipping proper planning or choosing the wrong materials during installation can lead to costly problems. Some of the most frequent mistakes include:

1. Choosing Only the Cheapest Material: Opting for low-cost underlays may seem economical at first, but they deform quickly under daily use. This reduces both comfort and the overall lifespan of parquet flooring.
2. Ignoring the Moisture Barrier: Especially on ground floors or basements, neglecting a moisture barrier can result in parquet swelling, warping, or mold formation. This is one of the most common reasons for floor failure.
3. DIY Installations: Installing insulation without professional expertise often leads to gaps, overlaps, or uneven surfaces. These small errors cause squeaky sounds, reduced insulation performance, and long-term damage.
4. Wrong Material Combinations: Using incompatible materials, such as basic PE foam in a damp area, provides insufficient protection. Each space requires tailored insulation to achieve proper sound, heat, and moisture control.
5. Incorrect Thickness Selection: Using insulation that is too thin makes it ineffective, while overly thick materials can interfere with parquet locking systems and cause installation problems.
6. Overlooking High-Traffic Requirements: Choosing residential-grade underlay for offices or commercial spaces leads to premature wear and tear, as these areas require more durable solutions like felt or combined systems.

Underfloor Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Underfloor insulation is not just about comfort — it also plays a critical role in reducing energy consumption.

1. Significant Energy Savings: Studies show that up to 10–15% of a building’s heat loss occurs through the floors. By installing proper insulation, this loss can be minimized, resulting in noticeably lower heating and cooling costs.
2. Lower Annual Energy Bills: Effective thermal insulation helps maintain stable indoor temperatures throughout the year. This reduces reliance on heating systems in winter and air conditioning in summer, cutting down annual energy expenses.
3. Environmental Benefits: Lower energy use directly translates into a reduced carbon footprint. Insulation is therefore not only an economic investment but also an environmentally responsible choice.
4. Compliance with Standards: Many European building certifications and energy efficiency regulations require underfloor insulation as part of sustainable construction practices. Properties that comply often achieve higher energy ratings, increasing their market value.

Acarkon Solutions

At Acarkon, we don’t just supply high-quality parquet flooring — we also provide complete underfloor insulation solutions tailored to different needs and environments. Our product range includes:

1. PE Foam Underlays: Cost-effective and easy to install solutions for residential use.
2. Cork Underlays: Eco-friendly, durable, and highly effective for both sound and thermal insulation.
3. XPS Boards: High-density panels offering superior thermal insulation and moisture resistance.
4. Moisture-Barrier Systems: Essential protection for ground floors and damp environments.
5. Premium Combined Systems: Advanced solutions that deliver maximum comfort with sound, heat, and moisture control.

Beyond products, our expert team evaluates each project carefully, recommends the most suitable insulation type, and ensures professional installation for long-lasting performance. With Acarkon, you receive not just materials, but a complete solution designed to extend the life of your parquet and enhance overall comfort.

Conclusion & Recommendations

Underfloor insulation is often underestimated, yet it is one of the most critical factors for comfort, durability, and energy efficiency in parquet flooring.

1. It provides sound, heat, and moisture protection, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
2. It helps achieve longer parquet life with reduced maintenance costs, protecting your investment in the long term.
3. Every space has unique requirements: apartments need sound insulation, ground floors demand moisture barriers, and high-traffic areas require durable solutions.
4. Choosing the wrong insulation not only reduces performance but can also lead to costly problems such as swelling, cracking, or higher energy bills.

Just like selecting the right parquet, choosing the correct underfloor insulation is equally important. With Acarkon’s expertise, you can count on tailored recommendations, professional installation, and reliable products that guarantee long-lasting performance and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is underfloor insulation necessary?

Underfloor insulation extends the lifespan of parquet flooring, provides sound and thermal insulation, prevents moisture, and improves comfort while saving energy.

Which underfloor insulation material is the best?

It depends on the usage area. Cork or felt is ideal for sound insulation in apartments, aluminum foil-coated underlays or XPS boards for moisture in ground floors, and combined systems for premium projects.

What is the ideal thickness for underfloor insulation?

Generally, 2–5 mm underlays are sufficient for residential use. In high-traffic areas, thicker and more durable options are recommended. Overly thick materials may damage parquet locking systems, so professional guidance is important.

Does underfloor insulation help save energy?

Yes. Around 10–15% of heat loss in buildings occurs through floors. Proper insulation prevents this loss, reduces annual energy bills, and contributes to environmental sustainability.

Can underfloor insulation completely prevent moisture?

With high-quality materials and proper installation, rising damp from the ground can be fully blocked. Aluminum foil-coated underlays and XPS boards are especially effective in this regard.

How long does underfloor insulation last?

With quality materials and professional installation, insulation can last as long as the parquet itself—typically 15–20 years—while maintaining performance.

Can I install underfloor insulation myself?

Basic foam underlays can be installed by homeowners. However, for professional-grade insulation or combined systems, expert installation is recommended to ensure maximum efficiency and durability.