Installing underlay could help to make your home more energy efficient amid the energy crisis and save you money on your bills, a flooring expert says.
With energy bill increases of 54% impacting millions of homeowners this month, finding improvements to lower heating costs has become a priority for many households. Thankfully, there are a number of improvements homeowners can consider, with one solution being to review the flooring in your home.
Underfloor heating is among the energy-efficient ways of retaining heat, but other more simple changes could improve the way your house retains heat, starting with your choice of underlay.
Underlay can be used beneath carpets, laminate and wood flooring, which not only helps to reduce heat loss but to also extend the lifespan of your carpet or laminate flooring by up to 50%, according to Flooring Superstore.
“Its hidden nature means underlay is often overlooked, but the right choice could unlock many benefits, especially when it comes to making your home more efficient,” says Josh Barber, Buyer at Flooring Superstore.
How Can Underlay Save You Money?
There are several ways heat loss in a house happens, including through the floor, which is generally where UK homes lose around 10% of their heat.
Underlay is made up of millions of tiny fibres that act as natural insulators, making it an effective barrier to heat loss, stopping cold air coming in and preventing warm air from escaping. This can be particularly valuable for homes with draughty areas like floorboards, or in period homes where draughts and heat loss are prevalent.
“The right underlay can also improve the air quality of your home, filtering out harmful dust particles and providing anti-allergenic properties to help purify the air in your home,” adds Barber.
As for which type of underlay is best for your home, Barber says: “There are many types of underlay available, from ranges that are compatible with underfloor heating to moisture-resistant underlay that prevents rising damp.
“New underlay is especially recommended for areas of the home with high footfall, as it improves shock absorption and will keep new carpets bouncing back for longer.”
Underlay is usually worked out per square metre and can cost you anywhere between £2-£8 for each square metre, according to British Flooring, depending on which retailer you buy from and how good the quality of the product is.
For another lost-cost tip to lower your energy bills, try this £3 energy hack that could save you £370 each year.
