When considering which material to use as an acoustic underlay they are many things to consider and many options available such as Recycled rubber acoustic underlay or foam underlay.
At Buildtec Acoustics we recommend recycled rubber underlays as it offers some great features and advantages over foam underlay.
Advantage of recycled rubber underlay over foam underlay
- Exceptional Impact Noise Reduction : Rubber underlays are highly effective in reducing impact noise. The density and resilience of recycled rubber allow it to absorb and disperse the energy generated by footsteps or other impacts. This prevents the transfer of vibrations through the floor, resulting in a significant decrease in the sound that is transmitted to the rooms below. A great example of this is Sylpro Acoustic Underlay which offers excellent noise reduction as described here. Foam underlays, although they provide some impact noise reduction, often have a lower density and may not offer the same level of effectiveness as rubber underlays.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Recycled rubber acoustic underlays are known for their durability and longevity. Rubber is a robust material that maintains its structure and performance over time, even under heavy foot traffic or furniture loads. It does not compress or degrade easily, ensuring consistent sound insulation performance throughout the lifespan of the underlay. Foam underlays, especially those made of lower-density materials, will compress over time, diminishing their ability to provide reliable sound insulation.
- Eco-Friendly Solution: One significant advantage of recycled rubber acoustic underlays is their environmental sustainability. They are made from recycled rubber, often sourced from discarded tires. By repurposing these materials, rubber underlays contribute to waste reduction and support eco-friendly practices. Foam underlays, while available in some environmentally friendly options, typically involve the use of non-renewable resources.
- Versatile Applications: Recycled rubber acoustic underlays are suitable for various applications. They can be used with different types of flooring, such as hardwood, laminate, carpet, or tile, making them versatile for both residential and commercial projects. if for example you are renovating an existing building then consider Basewood Acoustic Underlay for wooden floors, Basewood is ideal for renovation works particularly in cases where the floor finish is not being removed and where an underlay is needed to improve the impact sound insulation of the floors.  They provide consistent sound insulation benefits regardless of the floor covering, adding flexibility to design choices. Foam underlays may be limited in their compatibility with certain flooring types or may require specific considerations.
In summary, the benefits of recycled rubber acoustic underlay over foam underlays exceptional impact noise reduction, durability, moisture resistance, eco-friendliness, and versatile applications. When aiming for effective sound insulation and long-lasting performance, recycled rubber underlays are often the preferred choice for architects, engineers, and sound insulation contractors.
How is recycled rubber acoustic underlay sourced?
Recycled rubber acoustic underlay is typically sourced from discarded rubber materials, primarily from recycled tyres. The process involves collecting used tires, processing them to remove any non-rubber elements, and then transforming the rubber into a suitable form for underlay production. The rubber can be shredded, ground, or pulverized into smaller particles, which are then combined with binding agents to create the final recycled rubber underlay product.
The UK has implemented various initiatives and regulations to promote tire recycling and reduce waste. The Tyre Recovery Association (TRA) is an industry body in the UK that works towards increasing tire recycling and environmentally responsible practices.
According to data from the TRA in previous years, the UK has achieved a high rate of tire recovery and recycling. In 2020, approximately 95% of used tires in the UK were collected and recovered, either through recycling or other beneficial uses like energy recovery. The remaining percentage represented tires that were exported for reuse or retreading.