Can I lay underlay myself?

This is another question we’re asked all the time, here at Carpet Underlay Shop.

Can I fit new underlay myself? Or will I need a professional to do the job for me?

And the answer is very simple.

Yes, absolutely! Not only is it possible to lay your own underlay, for most projects we actually recommend it. Even if you’re a bit of a DIY amateur – and have no previous experience in this area – most underlays are now designed with easy installation in mind.

Take, for example, Plushwalk 12mm – the underlay we typically suggest for use with carpets. Thanks to its lightweight memory foam construction, it’s incredibly easy to handle and quick and effortless to install. Simply lay it logo-side up, spray with adhesive glue in the corners, and tape the seams.

The same goes for Royale 7mm Professional Sonic Gold Underlay, recommended for use with hardwood and laminate. And also Royale Vinyl Click Underlay, which we advise for use with vinyl. These both benefit from a very simple fitting process, and you certainly don’t have to be a master tradesman to do a good job and achieve impressive results.

When it comes to a DIY underlay installation, we have just three pieces of advice:

1. Ensure you have enough underlay by measuring the room carefully, to get the accurate dimensions, and using our online measurement calculator.

2. Prepare well, by gathering all the necessary equipment before you start and making sure the subfloor is as clean and tidy as possible.

3. Take advantage of our beginner’s guides on how to lay carpet underlay and laminate underlay, which offer step-by-step instructions and lots of useful tips and advice.

3 benefits of a DIY underlay installation

Choosing to fit your own underlay can be beneficial for several reasons:

Cost savings

Flooring fitters can be quite expensive to hire. They usually have a daily rate of around £120 - £150 and can charge £1 - £4 per m² for laying underlay. In addition to this installation fee, they may also bill you for clearing the room, removing old floor coverings, repairing the subfloor and more.

The final cost can soon rack up, which isn’t ideal if you’re on a strict budget.

However, by taking the DIY route, you only have to pay for the materials. Certain tools will be needed to complete the project properly. But rather than buying these, it’s possible to hire them for an affordable price – or you could simply borrow them from a friend.

Whether you fit just the underlay and leave the professionals to install your final floor covering, or you tackle both yourself, you can save a large chunk of money – and your bank balance is sure to thank you for it!

Convenience

Rather than waiting for a professional fitter to become available – or having to accept the specific timeframe they offer – the DIY option puts you in control.

You can begin the project whenever you wish and work at your own pace. There’s no need to book annual leave or ask relatives to pop round and let the fitters into your house. Just do a little bit every evening after work or put aside a couple of weekends to get the job done.

Quality

Ever been let down by a shoddy workman? Yep, us too.

If you’re worried about paying for a fitter, only to find they’ve done a poor job, the best option is to get stuck in yourself. The chances are, you’ll be able to do it just as well – if not much better!

Fitting underlay is relatively quick and easy, even if you’re new to the world of DIY. And as long as you do some prep and take your time, you can take full responsibility for the quality of your installation and ensure you get the best possible results.

Ready to give it a go?

Here at Carpet Underlay Shop, we stock an extensive range of underlays for use with carpet, wood and laminate and luxury vinyl tiles. Plushwalk 12mm, Royale 7mm Gold, and Royale LVT are all particularly easy to fit. But no matter which type or brand you choose, we guarantee, you should be able to fit it yourself – quickly, easily, and as professionally as a pro fitter.

So why not take a look and get started?

For further advice on how to lay underlay yourself, or to find out more about the products available in our store, please feel free to get in touch. Always on hand to help, we’d love to hear from you and will gladly assist with your questions and enquiries. Just give us a call on 0203 887 0994 or send an email to sales@carpet-underlay-shop.co.uk and we’ll respond as soon as possible.

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