Cork vs Rubber Acoustic Underlay — 2026 Expert Comparison
Written by our acoustic insulation specialist — 15+ years experience. About our experts.
Cork and rubber are the two most popular natural acoustic underlay materials in the UK. After testing both extensively, here is our honest comparison.
Performance Comparison
| Factor | Cork | Rubber |
|---|---|---|
| Impact noise (ΔLw) | Good (12-20dB typical) | Excellent (54-74dB) |
| Airborne noise | Moderate | Good |
| Thermal insulation | Excellent | Good |
| Eco credentials | Excellent (renewable) | Good (recycled rubber) |
| UFH compatibility | Good | Excellent |
| Feel underfoot | Soft, natural | Firm, resilient |
When to Choose Cork
Our cork-rubber composite is ideal when: eco credentials matter, thermal performance is a secondary requirement, and moderate acoustic improvement is sufficient. Also excellent for wall and ceiling applications where rubber would be impractical.
When to Choose Rubber
Our 6mm rubber underlay wins when: maximum acoustic performance is the priority, you need to meet Part E, or you have a serious noise problem. At 74dB vs cork's 12-20dB, the rubber is significantly stronger acoustically.
Browse our acoustic underlay range or contact our experts for a free recommendation.
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