Will thicker underlay make my apartment floor quieter?

Thickness alone does not tell me whether an underlay is right for your apartment. I need to check two things together: whether it supports the chosen flooring correctly, and whether the complete floor arrangement addresses the building's acoustic requirements. A soft sample that feels comfortable in your hand is not enough evidence.

Before ordering, I ask you to obtain the building's current flooring requirements and any approval process from the owners corporation or building manager. We should know what documents they require for your proposed change, especially when replacing carpet. That conversation is easier before materials arrive than after the old floor has been removed.

Acoustic results relate to a tested construction, not just a roll of underlay. The slab, ceiling below, flooring and installation details all influence the result. I would compare a supplier's test information with the actual proposed system, and flag when an acoustic consultant or building-specific advice is needed rather than promise a soundproof room.

More cushioning is not always better for board joints. Some products have attached backing or restrict additional underlay. Perimeter details also matter: a carefully selected acoustic layer can be undermined by the wrong connection at an edge. The flooring and underlay manufacturers need to support the same installation arrangement.

Send me the building requirements, the product you like and details of the existing floor. We can then discuss a compatible approach and the practical work involved. Also consider ordinary living habits such as soft footwear and suitable rugs, while recognising that these do not replace the required flooring system.