Allaboutunderlay.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Allaboutunderlay.co.uk appears to be a legitimate online retailer specialising in flooring underlays, carpet grippers, and door bars. The site provides a clear catalogue of products, competitive pricing, and details regarding their delivery and customer service. They highlight 25 years of experience in the trade, suggesting a solid foundation in the market.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Clarity: Excellent, easy to navigate.
• Product Range: Specialised and comprehensive within its niche (underlay, grippers, door bars).
• Pricing Transparency: Clear prices listed for each product.
• Customer Support Information: Readily available (FAQs, Contact Us).
• Delivery Information: Clearly stated, including holiday dispatches.
• Trust Signals: Mentions 5-star service, expert advice, and a dedicated team.
• Ethical Consideration: Selling flooring underlays and related accessories is permissible.

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk seems to be a straightforward e-commerce site for a specific home improvement need. They have covered the basics well, offering a focused range of products at what they claim are competitive prices by “cutting out the middleman.” The inclusion of “Expert Guides” and “Customer FAQs” also points to a commitment to assisting customers, which is a positive sign for consumer trust.

Here are some of the best alternatives for home flooring and related accessories:

• Carpetright

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  • Key Features: Wide range of carpets, laminate, vinyl, LVT, and wood flooring; professional fitting services; showrooms across the UK.
  • Average Price: Varies significantly by product and service.
  • Pros: Extensive selection, in-person consultation, installation services, well-established brand.
  • Cons: Can be pricier than online-only retailers, delivery/fitting times may vary.

• Tapi Carpets & Floors

  • Key Features: Stylish range of carpets, LVT, wood, laminate, and vinyl; free home consultations; expert fitting.
  • Average Price: Mid to high range, depending on materials.
  • Pros: Focus on modern aesthetics, excellent customer service, convenient home visits.
  • Cons: Less focus on ‘budget’ options, fitting costs can add up.

• Victoria Plum

  • Key Features: Primarily known for bathrooms, but also offers a good selection of laminate, LVT, and vinyl flooring; online visualiser tools.
  • Average Price: Competitive for their flooring range.
  • Pros: Good online shopping experience, often has sales, diverse styles.
  • Cons: Not as specialised in flooring as dedicated retailers, may require external fitters.

• Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

  

  • Key Features: Durable, water-resistant, versatile, and comes in various designs mimicking wood or stone.
  • Average Price: £15-£40 per square metre.
  • Pros: Highly practical, easy to clean, excellent for high-traffic areas, can be DIY-friendly.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive than laminate, professional installation often recommended for best results.

• Laminate Flooring

  • Key Features: Cost-effective, easy to install (click-lock systems), wide variety of finishes and colours.
  • Average Price: £8-£25 per square metre.
  • Pros: Budget-friendly, good for DIY, easy to maintain.
  • Cons: Less durable than LVT or real wood, can be noisy, not suitable for wet areas.

• Underlay

  • Key Features: Provides insulation, sound dampening, and extends the life of flooring; various types for carpet, laminate, and wood.
  • Average Price: £2-£10 per square metre.
  • Pros: Essential for comfortable and durable flooring, improves thermal and acoustic properties.
  • Cons: Adds to overall cost and installation time.

• Carpet Grippers

  • Key Features: Securely holds carpet in place around the perimeter of a room; various sizes and pin lengths.
  • Average Price: £0.50-£1.50 per metre.
  • Pros: Crucial for a professional carpet installation, prevents movement and tripping hazards.
  • Cons: Requires precise measurement and fitting, sharp pins.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Allaboutunderlay.co.uk Review & First Look

When first landing on Allaboutunderlay.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of clarity and specialisation. The website’s design is clean, intuitive, and highly focused on its core offering: flooring underlays and related accessories. This narrow focus is often a good sign, suggesting expertise rather than a sprawling, unfocused inventory. The homepage immediately presents best-selling products, calls to action for different underlay types, and highlights key selling points such as “5* service” and “Fast delivery.” This initial look confirms the site’s intention to provide a straightforward, no-nonsense shopping experience for underlayment.

Navigating the User Experience

The site’s navigation is remarkably simple and effective. Key links like “Expert Guides,” “Customer FAQs,” “Contact Us,” and “Track Order” are prominently displayed at the top, ensuring users can quickly find support or information. This attention to user pathways suggests a customer-centric approach. For example, a user looking for specific technical advice would likely head straight to “Expert Guides,” while someone with a delivery query would find “Track Order” indispensable.

Product Presentation and Categorisation

Products are well-categorised, with clear sections for carpet underlay, laminate & wood floor underlays, carpet grippers, and door bars. Within these categories, further breakdown by underlay type (e.g., Acoustic Underlay, Thermal Underlay, Underfloor Heating Underlay) helps customers quickly identify what they need based on their specific requirements. Each product listing includes basic information like price per square metre and key selling points such as “Bestseller” or “Best Value,” simplifying the decision-making process for consumers. For instance, the “SU LuxWalk 11mm Underlay” is clearly marked as a “Bestseller” and “Best Value” at £3.98m², providing immediate context for its popularity.

Initial Trust Signals

Beyond the functional elements, Allaboutunderlay.co.uk establishes initial trust through several subtle yet effective signals. The mention of “25 years’ experience supplying underlay to the trade” lends significant credibility, implying a deep understanding of the product and industry. Furthermore, the commitment to “Low prices, always” and hand-picking “the best underlay brands” attempts to assure customers of both value and quality. The inclusion of clear Christmas trading information, detailing dispatch delays, also demonstrates transparency and a proactive approach to managing customer expectations.

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk Pros & Cons

Every online venture has its strengths and weaknesses, and Allaboutunderlay.co.uk is no exception. A thorough review requires weighing both sides to provide a balanced perspective for potential customers. Mostynscurtains.co.uk Review

The Advantages of Allaboutunderlay.co.uk

The primary benefit of Allaboutunderlay.co.uk lies in its specialisation. Unlike large, general home improvement stores, this site focuses solely on underlay and related accessories, allowing them to offer a curated selection and expert advice.

• Specialised Expertise: By focusing exclusively on underlays, carpet grippers, and door bars, the website can present itself as an authority in this niche. They claim “over 25 years’ experience,” which suggests a deep understanding of the products they sell and the needs of their customers, from trade professionals to DIY enthusiasts. This specialisation often translates to better product knowledge and more targeted customer support.
• Competitive Pricing: The claim of “Low prices, always” by “cutting out the middleman” is a significant draw. For products like underlay, which are often purchased in bulk, even small savings per square metre can add up. For example, the Tredaire Dreamwalk 11mm Underlay is listed at £4.51m², a competitive price point that would appeal to cost-conscious buyers.
• Streamlined Product Selection: The website neatly organises products by type (e.g., Acoustic, Thermal, Underfloor Heating, PU Foam) and application (carpet, laminate, wood). This makes it easy for customers to find the exact type of underlay they need without sifting through unrelated items. The clear labelling of “Bestseller” items also helps guide consumer choices, highlighting popular and proven options like the Cloud 9 Cirrus 9mm Underlay at £4.64m².
• Clear Customer Information: Essential customer service information is easily accessible, including “Expert Guides,” “Customer FAQs,” and a “Contact Us” section. This transparency builds trust and provides clear pathways for support. The presence of a “Track Order” function is also a standard yet crucial feature for online shopping convenience, as evidenced by a 2022 survey by Statista showing 78% of UK online shoppers prefer to track their orders.
• Fast Delivery: The promise of “Fast delivery” with “premium UK delivery service” often getting products to the door in “one working day” is a major advantage, especially for those working to tight deadlines or needing to complete a project quickly.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While Allaboutunderlay.co.uk presents a strong case for itself, there are a few areas that could be perceived as limitations or could be enhanced.

• Limited Product Range (by design): While specialisation is a pro, it inherently means a narrower product range. If a customer is looking for a complete flooring solution including the carpet or wood itself, they would need to visit other retailers. The site strictly adheres to underlays, grippers, and door bars, which means it won’t be a one-stop shop for all flooring needs.
• Reliance on Online Information: As an online-only retailer, customers cannot physically inspect the underlay before purchasing. While detailed descriptions and specifications are provided, some buyers prefer to feel the density or see the thickness of a product in person. This is a common challenge for all e-commerce platforms selling tactile goods.
• No Installation Services: The website focuses purely on supplying the products. Unlike larger flooring chains that often offer fitting services, customers purchasing from Allaboutunderlay.co.uk would need to arrange their own installation, whether DIY or through a professional fitter. This might be a disadvantage for those seeking an all-inclusive solution.
• Limited Brand Diversity within Some Categories: While they highlight “the best underlay brands,” the visible selection on the homepage appears to feature a few key manufacturers like Cloud 9, Tredaire, Wilsons, and Duralay. While these are reputable, a broader range of brands might offer more choice for those with specific preferences or budget constraints, though this is a minor point given their stated goal of hand-picking.
• Customer Reviews Visibility: While they claim “5* service,” prominent customer reviews or testimonials directly on the homepage are not immediately visible from the provided text. Integrating easily viewable customer feedback (e.g., Trustpilot ratings, product reviews) could further bolster consumer confidence, as 93% of consumers report that online reviews influence their purchasing decisions, according to a 2023 BrightLocal survey.

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk Alternatives

When considering flooring underlays and related accessories, a focused retailer like Allaboutunderlay.co.uk is a strong contender. However, the UK market offers a range of alternatives, from broad home improvement stores to other specialised online outlets. Exploring these can help consumers find the best fit for their specific needs, budget, and project scope.

General Home Improvement Retailers

These giants offer a vast array of products, often including flooring and its components. They benefit from physical stores, allowing customers to see and feel products before buying.

• B&Q Smokerelief.co.uk Review

  • Overview: A leading UK home improvement retailer with a strong online presence and numerous physical stores. They offer a comprehensive range of flooring, including laminate, vinyl, wood, and carpets, along with the necessary underlays, grippers, and accessories.
  • Pros: Wide selection of flooring types, competitive prices, ability to pick up in-store, often run promotions. Their range of underlay is extensive, catering to different insulation and soundproofing needs.
  • Cons: Product expertise for underlay might be less specialised than a dedicated vendor; finding the specific underlay might require more searching through a broader catalogue.
  • Example Products: Varied types of laminate underlay, acoustic underlay, and thermal underlay often available.

• Wickes

  • Overview: Another major player in the UK DIY and home improvement sector, Wickes provides a good range of flooring options and accessories. They cater to both DIYers and trade professionals.
  • Pros: Reliable stock levels, clear product specifications, good for trade accounts, competitive pricing on bulk purchases. They offer various underlay solutions tailored for different flooring types and purposes.
  • Cons: Less emphasis on premium or luxury underlay brands; their focus is more on practicality and value for general construction needs.
  • Example Products: Standard foam underlays, damp-proof underlays for concrete floors, and basic carpet grippers.

• Homebase

  • Overview: Homebase offers a curated selection of home and garden products, including flooring and accessories. They aim to provide stylish and practical solutions for home renovators.
  • Pros: Good range of aesthetic options, often higher quality feel on some products, helpful in-store staff for advice. Their underlay selection often includes options for comfort and thermal efficiency.
  • Cons: Prices can sometimes be slightly higher than pure budget retailers; their underlay selection might be less comprehensive than B&Q or Wickes.
  • Example Products: Acoustic underlay for apartments, heavy-duty underlay for high-traffic areas.

Specialised Flooring Retailers

These retailers often have physical showrooms and provide professional fitting services, offering a more complete solution for flooring projects.

• Carpetright

  • Overview: As the UK’s largest carpet and floorings retailer, Carpetright is a go-to for comprehensive flooring solutions. They offer a vast range of carpets, laminate, vinyl, and wood flooring, alongside a dedicated section for underlay and accessories.
  • Pros: Extensive selection of underlays designed to complement their flooring ranges, professional advice and fitting services, physical showrooms for tactile inspection, strong customer service.
  • Cons: Can be perceived as higher priced than online-only specialists due to overheads; delivery and fitting schedules might be longer.
  • Example Products: Tredaire, Cloud 9, and their own brand underlays, tailored for comfort, thermal insulation, and sound reduction.

• Tapi Carpets & Floors Centurionsafetysigns.co.uk Review

  • Overview: A newer but rapidly expanding player in the UK flooring market, Tapi focuses on a modern showroom experience and high-quality products. They offer a strong selection of carpets, LVT, and other flooring types, with a good range of compatible underlays.
  • Pros: Emphasis on customer experience, free home consultation service, quality product range, often offer competitive packages for flooring and fitting.
  • Cons: Limited number of showrooms compared to Carpetright; prices might be at the higher end of the market for some products.
  • Example Products: High-performance underlays for luxurious feel, eco-friendly underlay options.

Online-Only Flooring and Underlay Specialists

Similar to Allaboutunderlay.co.uk, these sites focus on specific niches, often offering competitive pricing due to lower overheads.

• Remland Carpets

  • Overview: An online retailer offering a wide range of flooring products, including a strong focus on underlay and accessories. They aim to provide competitive pricing and efficient delivery.
  • Pros: Good selection of underlay brands and types, competitive online pricing, often have stock ready for quick dispatch.
  • Cons: Purely online, so no physical inspection of goods; customer service relies heavily on online communication.
  • Example Products: Acoustic underlay, thermal underlay, and various densities of foam and rubber underlay.

• Online Carpets

  • Overview: As the name suggests, this is an online platform for carpets and accessories, including a comprehensive range of underlays. They target budget-conscious consumers with competitive pricing.
  • Pros: Often offers deals and discounts, wide variety of budget-friendly to mid-range underlays, convenient online ordering.
  • Cons: Similar to other online-only retailers, the lack of a physical presence can be a barrier for some customers.
  • Example Products: Cheap carpet underlay, felt underlay, PU foam underlay.

When choosing an alternative, consider your priorities:

• Budget: Online-only specialists or general DIY stores might offer the best prices.
• Convenience: Retailers with physical stores offer in-person viewing and advice, while online stores offer home delivery.
• Service: Do you need professional installation or expert advice on technical specifications? Some retailers excel in this.
• Product Specificity: For highly specific underlay needs (e.g., underfloor heating compatibility, extreme acoustic dampening), a specialised retailer might be more knowledgeable.

How to Determine Legitimacy of an Online Retailer

In the age of pervasive e-commerce, discerning the legitimacy of an online retailer is paramount. While Allaboutunderlay.co.uk appears to be a genuine operation, understanding the key indicators of a trustworthy website can empower consumers to shop safely online. This process involves scrutinising various aspects of the site, from its basic information to its security measures and online reputation. Dgtreeservices.co.uk Review

Essential Website Elements to Check

A legitimate business will typically display certain foundational information clearly and transparently.

• Contact Information: A reliable website should provide a comprehensive “Contact Us” section. This should ideally include:
  • A physical address (not just a P.O. Box).
  • A telephone number for direct communication.
  • An email address or a contact form.
  • Allaboutunderlay.co.uk, for example, has a dedicated “Contact Us” page, which is a positive sign.
• “About Us” or “Our Story” Page: This section provides insight into the company’s background, mission, and values. It helps establish credibility by humanising the business and demonstrating its history or expertise. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s mention of “25 years’ experience” is a strong indicator of an established presence.
• Terms and Conditions/Privacy Policy: These legal documents are non-negotiable for legitimate businesses. They outline customer rights, data handling practices, return policies, and dispute resolution. The absence of these indicates a high risk.
• Delivery and Returns Policy: Clear, concise, and fair policies regarding shipping costs, delivery times, and returns are crucial. Vague or overly restrictive policies should raise a red flag. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk clearly states their “Fast delivery” promise and holiday dispatch information.

Security Measures and Technical Indicators

Beyond basic information, the technical setup of a website provides strong clues about its trustworthiness.

• SSL Certificate (HTTPS): Look for “https://” in the website’s URL and a padlock icon in the address bar. This indicates that the website uses an SSL certificate to encrypt data exchanged between your browser and the server, protecting sensitive information like payment details. Without HTTPS, any data you enter could be intercepted. According to Google Transparency Report data, over 95% of Chrome traffic on desktop is now protected by HTTPS.
• Secure Payment Gateways: Legitimate e-commerce sites use well-known, secure payment gateways (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Stripe). They should not ask for credit card details via email or insecure forms. Look for logos of trusted payment providers at checkout.
• Professional Design: While not foolproof, a professionally designed website with consistent branding, high-quality images, and no spelling or grammatical errors generally signals a legitimate operation. Scammers often use hastily put-together sites. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk exhibits a clean and professional design.

Online Presence and Reputation

A business’s online footprint extends beyond its own website. Investigating its broader reputation can provide valuable insights.

• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Check independent review platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or Feefo. While some negative reviews are normal for any business, a consistent pattern of highly negative feedback, especially regarding delivery, product quality, or customer service, is a warning sign. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk mentions “5* service,” and it would be beneficial for them to link to or display these ratings prominently.
• Social Media Presence: A legitimate business often has active social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter). Check for engagement, recent posts, and responsiveness to customer queries. A dead or non-existent social media presence can be a red flag.
• Company Registration Information: In the UK, you can verify a company’s registration details (Company Number, registered address, director information) on the Companies House website. This provides an official confirmation of the business’s existence. For example, a search for “Allaboutunderlay” on Companies House would typically reveal associated company names and their registration status.
• Domain Age and WHOIS Lookup: While not definitive, a very new domain or one with hidden WHOIS information (which reveals who owns the domain) can sometimes be suspicious, especially if combined with other red flags. Reputable businesses often have older, well-established domains.

By systematically checking these elements, consumers can significantly reduce their risk when shopping online and confidently determine the legitimacy of retailers like Allaboutunderlay.co.uk.

Understanding Underlay: Types, Benefits, and Applications

Underlay might seem like a secondary consideration when choosing new flooring, but it’s a critical component that significantly impacts the lifespan, comfort, and performance of your floor. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s specialisation highlights this importance. Different types of underlay serve distinct purposes, from enhancing warmth to reducing noise, making the right choice essential for any flooring project. Ivaonline.co.uk Review

Common Types of Underlay

The market offers various underlay materials, each with unique properties and best-suited applications.

• PU Foam Underlay:
  • Description: This is the most popular type of underlay in the UK, often made from recycled foam. It’s known for its luxurious feel underfoot and excellent bounce-back properties.
  • Benefits: Provides superior comfort, good thermal insulation, and sound absorption. It’s often the choice for bedrooms and living rooms where comfort is a priority.
  • Applications: Primarily used with carpets, offering a soft, plush feel. Examples on Allaboutunderlay.co.uk include “SU LuxWalk 11mm Underlay” and “Cloud 9 Cumulus 11mm Underlay.”
• Sponge Rubber Underlay:
  • Description: Made from dense, high-quality rubber, this underlay is highly durable and resilient.
  • Benefits: Exceptional noise reduction, excellent thermal insulation, and long-lasting performance. Its density makes it ideal for areas needing robust support.
  • Applications: Suitable for high-traffic areas and commercial applications, providing a firm yet comfortable base for carpets.
• Crumb Rubber Underlay:
  • Description: Produced from recycled car tyres, this type is very dense and firm.
  • Benefits: Offers superior impact sound reduction and high durability, making it perfect for heavy-duty use. It’s also environmentally friendly due to its recycled content.
  • Applications: Often used in commercial settings, hallways, and stairs where extreme durability and soundproofing are required.
• Felt Underlay:
  • Description: A traditional option made from compressed fibres, known for its firm support.
  • Benefits: Excellent thermal insulation and can absorb moisture. It’s generally more rigid than foam, offering a solid base.
  • Applications: Historically used for carpet, especially in areas where a firmer feel is desired or for specific carpet types.
• Combined Underlay (for Laminate/Wood Flooring):
  • Description: These are specifically designed for hard flooring, often incorporating a built-in damp-proof membrane (DPM) or acoustic layer.
  • Benefits: Provides a smooth, level base for laminate or wood, reduces impact noise, protects against moisture from the subfloor, and can offer thermal benefits.
  • Applications: Essential for floating floors like laminate, engineered wood, and some LVT. Examples on Allaboutunderlay.co.uk include “Duralay Heatflow Wood & Laminate 3mm Underlay” and “Duralay Silentfloor Gold 4.2mm Underlay.”

Key Benefits of Installing Underlay

Investing in good quality underlay provides a multitude of advantages beyond just providing a soft feel.

• Enhanced Comfort: A good underlay adds a luxurious, cushioned feel underfoot, making walking on carpets and even hard floors much more pleasant. This is particularly noticeable with thicker PU foam underlays, as highlighted by Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s “Feel the difference under foot.”
• Improved Thermal Insulation: Underlay acts as an additional layer of insulation, preventing heat loss through the floor. This can lead to significant energy savings, reducing heating bills. High tog count underlays, such as “Thermal Underlay” offered by Allaboutunderlay.co.uk, are specifically designed for this purpose. According to the Energy Saving Trust, proper insulation can save hundreds of pounds annually.
• Superior Soundproofing: Underlay significantly reduces both impact sound (footsteps) and airborne sound (voices, TV noise) transmission between rooms and floors. “Acoustic Underlay,” a category on Allaboutunderlay.co.uk, is engineered to minimise noise, which is particularly beneficial in multi-story homes or flats. Data from the Noise Abatement Society indicates that effective acoustic solutions can reduce noise by up to 50dB.
• Extended Flooring Lifespan: Underlay acts as a shock absorber, protecting the flooring from daily wear and tear. It absorbs the impact of foot traffic, preventing premature flattening of carpet pile or damage to hard flooring seams. This prolongs the life of your expensive flooring investment, making the underlay a cost-effective measure in the long run.
• Moisture Protection: Many underlays, especially those for laminate and wood, come with an integrated damp-proof membrane (DPM). This protects the flooring from moisture rising from the subfloor, preventing warping, mould, and other moisture-related damage.
• Levelling and Smoothness: Underlay can help smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor, creating a level and stable base for the new flooring. This is crucial for hard flooring like laminate, where an uneven subfloor can lead to gaps or damage to the click-lock system.

Specific Applications and Considerations

Choosing the right underlay depends heavily on the specific flooring type and the room’s function.

• Underfloor Heating Systems: If you have underfloor heating, a specialist “Underfloor Heating Underlay” is essential. These underlays have a very low tog rating to allow heat to pass through efficiently while still offering protection and comfort. Using a standard underlay with a high tog rating would block the heat, making the system inefficient.
• High-Traffic Areas: For hallways, stairs, and commercial spaces, durability is key. Dense crumb rubber or sponge rubber underlays are preferred as they can withstand heavy footfall without compressing or degrading quickly.
• Noise Reduction: In apartments or multi-story homes, acoustic underlay is vital. Look for underlays with high impact sound reduction (ISOR) ratings to minimise noise transfer to floors below.
• DIY vs. Professional Installation: While many underlays are relatively easy to install for DIY enthusiasts, especially those with click-lock systems, ensuring a perfectly level and moisture-free base is critical. For complex installations or large areas, professional advice or fitting is always recommended.

In essence, underlay is not an afterthought but a foundational element of any successful flooring installation. Its selection should be made with careful consideration of the specific needs of the room and the type of flooring being laid.

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk Pricing and Value Proposition

When it comes to purchasing home improvement materials, understanding the pricing structure and the overall value proposition is key. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk positions itself as a competitive online retailer by emphasising “Low prices, always” and direct-to-consumer sales. This section will delve into their pricing model, compare it to market averages, and assess the value they offer to customers. Kingsbathroom.co.uk Review

Pricing Structure

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk displays its product prices clearly on the homepage and individual product pages, primarily quoted in £ per square metre (m²). This is the industry standard for flooring materials, allowing for easy calculation based on room dimensions.

• Example Prices (from homepage data):
  • SU LuxWalk 11mm Underlay: £3.98m²
  • Wilsons Plushwalk 12mm Underlay: £6.93m²
  • Tredaire Dreamwalk 11mm Underlay: £4.51m²
  • Cloud 9 Cirrus 9mm Underlay: £4.64m²
  • Duralay Heatflow Carpet 6.1mm Underlay: £7.70m²
  • Tredaire Colours Red 11.4mm Underlay: £9.58m²
  • Cloud 9 Cumulus 11mm Underlay: £5.04m²
  • Tredaire Softwalk 9mm Underlay: £4.64m²
  • Wilsons ThermalStream 10mm Underlay: £8.43m²
  • Royale Carpet Gripper: Prices not shown per metre but stated as a “carpet fitting essential.”
  • Duralay Heatflow Wood & Laminate 3mm Underlay: £6.17m²
  • Duralay Silentfloor Gold 4.2mm Underlay: £7.50m²
  • Duralay Timbermate Excel 3.6mm Underlay: £5.31m²
  • Woodtex Silver 3mm Underlay: £6.00m²

These prices represent a range that caters to different budgets and quality requirements, from more economical options like the SU LuxWalk to premium choices like the Tredaire Colours Red.

Value Proposition: “Cutting Out the Middleman”

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s core value proposition revolves around its direct-to-consumer model. They explicitly state: “By cutting out the middleman, it allows us to sell the very best underlay products at huge discounts to what you’ll find at high street carpet shops.”

• Cost Savings: This direct model theoretically allows them to offer lower prices than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, which have higher overheads (rent, sales staff, showroom maintenance). For consumers, this can translate to significant savings, especially on larger orders where underlay costs can quickly accumulate. For example, a 50m² room requiring underlay at £4.00/m² would cost £200, but a difference of just £1/m² compared to a high street shop would save £50.
• Focused Inventory: By concentrating on underlays and related accessories, they can streamline their supply chain and purchasing, potentially leading to better deals from manufacturers, which they can then pass on to customers.
• Expert Curation: They claim to have “handpicked and personally tested every product we stock.” This suggests a quality control process that aims to ensure customers receive reliable products, reducing buyer’s remorse. This adds value beyond just price, ensuring the product performs as expected.
• Convenience: The online-only model offers 24/7 shopping convenience from anywhere in the UK, coupled with “Fast delivery,” which aims to get products to the customer quickly. This convenience factor is a significant value in today’s busy world.

Comparison to Market Averages

Based on market research, underlay prices in the UK can vary widely depending on material, thickness, and brand.

• Budget Underlays (e.g., thin foam, basic felt): Can range from £1.50 to £3.50 per m².
• Mid-Range Underlays (e.g., good quality PU foam, basic rubber): Typically fall between £3.50 and £6.50 per m². This is where many of Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s popular products like SU LuxWalk and Cloud 9 Cirrus sit.
• Premium Underlays (e.g., thick, high-density rubber, advanced acoustic/thermal types): Can range from £6.50 to £12+ per m². Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offers options in this range too, such as Tredaire Colours Red and Wilsons ThermalStream.

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s pricing appears to be competitive within these ranges, particularly for their mid-range to premium options. Their prices for established brands like Cloud 9 and Tredaire are generally in line with or slightly below what one might find at larger online competitors or discount flooring warehouses. For example, Cloud 9 underlays are often priced between £4-£6/m² at various online retailers, placing Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s offers for Cloud 9 Cirrus and Cumulus squarely in the competitive zone. Securitycam.co.uk Review

In summary, Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s pricing strategy leverages its direct sales model to offer competitive rates on a focused range of underlay products. Their value proposition extends beyond just low prices to include the convenience of online shopping, rapid delivery, and what they claim is an expertly curated selection of high-quality brands. This combination makes them an attractive option for consumers prioritising both cost-effectiveness and product quality in the underlay segment.

How to Choose the Right Underlay for Your Needs

Choosing the correct underlay is just as vital as selecting the flooring itself. An inappropriate underlay can negate the benefits of expensive flooring, leading to reduced comfort, poor insulation, or even premature wear. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s focus on this niche underscores its importance. Making an informed decision involves considering the type of flooring, the room’s function, specific performance requirements, and compatibility with the subfloor.

Step 1: Identify Your Flooring Type

The primary determinant for underlay selection is the type of flooring you intend to install over it.

• For Carpets:
  • PU Foam Underlay: Ideal for comfort and bounce. It provides a luxurious feel underfoot, good thermal insulation, and sound dampening. This is the most common choice for domestic carpet installations. (e.g., SU LuxWalk 11mm Underlay, Cloud 9 Cumulus 11mm Underlay).
  • Sponge Rubber Underlay: Excellent for durability, sound reduction, and thermal insulation. It’s denser and more resilient than foam, suitable for heavier traffic areas or where enhanced soundproofing is required.
  • Crumb Rubber Underlay: Best for very high-traffic areas and commercial use due to its extreme density and durability. It offers superior impact sound reduction.
  • Felt Underlay: A traditional, firm option providing good thermal insulation, but less bounce than foam or rubber.
• For Laminate and Wood Flooring:
  • Specialised Laminate/Wood Underlay: These are distinct from carpet underlays. They are generally thinner and firmer to provide a stable base for the click-lock systems of floating floors. Many come with integrated features. (e.g., Duralay Heatflow Wood & Laminate 3mm Underlay, Duralay Timbermate Excel 3.6mm Underlay).
  • Vapour Barrier/DPM: Crucial if installing over concrete subfloors or in areas prone to moisture (e.g., ground floor). Many laminate/wood underlays have an integrated damp-proof membrane (DPM) or vapour barrier to prevent moisture rising and damaging the flooring.
  • Sound Reduction: Essential for laminate and wood, as these can generate significant impact noise. Look for underlays designed to reduce “click-clack” sounds.

Step 2: Consider the Room’s Function and Traffic

The purpose of the room and the anticipated level of foot traffic will influence the required durability and performance of the underlay.

• Living Rooms & Bedrooms (Low to Medium Traffic): Comfort and thermal insulation are often priorities. Thicker PU foam carpet underlays (10-12mm) for carpets or good quality acoustic underlays for hard floors are suitable.
• Hallways, Stairs & Landings (High Traffic): Durability and resilience are key. Denser rubber underlays for carpets or robust, firm underlays for hard floors are recommended to prevent premature wear and compression.
• Kitchens & Bathrooms (Moisture Prone): For hard flooring, a damp-proof underlay is essential. While carpet is less common in these areas, if used, ensuring adequate ventilation and moisture protection is important.
• Commercial Areas: Very high durability, excellent sound insulation, and fire retardancy are critical. Dense crumb rubber or heavy-duty sponge rubber underlays are typically used.

Step 3: Evaluate Performance Requirements

Beyond basic support, consider specific needs like thermal efficiency or acoustic dampening. Cintique.co.uk Review

• Thermal Insulation: If energy efficiency is a priority, especially in colder rooms or over concrete floors, select an underlay with a high tog rating. For underfloor heating, however, you need a low tog rating (max 2.5 tog in total for underlay and flooring combined) to allow heat to pass through efficiently. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offers “Thermal Underlay” and “Underfloor Heating Underlay” specifically for these purposes.
• Acoustic Properties: For sound reduction, particularly in multi-story homes or apartments, choose an “Acoustic Underlay.” Look for products with high decibel (dB) reduction ratings. This minimises both impact noise (footsteps) and airborne noise. A typical acoustic underlay can reduce noise by 20dB or more.
• Levelling and Stability: If your subfloor has minor imperfections, a thicker, denser underlay can help smooth these out and provide a more stable base for your new flooring, preventing creaks and improving longevity.

Step 4: Check Subfloor Compatibility

The type of subfloor (concrete, wood, floorboards) also plays a role in underlay choice.

• Concrete Subfloors: Always require a damp-proof membrane (DPM) or an underlay with an integrated DPM, especially for hard flooring, to prevent moisture from rising and damaging the new floor.
• Wooden Floorboards: These are generally more forgiving but may benefit from a levelling underlay if the boards are uneven. Acoustic underlays can also help reduce noise transfer through wooden joists.

By systematically addressing these factors, you can confidently select the right underlay that not only meets your budget but also enhances the performance, comfort, and longevity of your new flooring, making your investment worthwhile.

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk: Shipping and Delivery Options

When purchasing bulky items like flooring underlays online, the shipping and delivery process is a critical factor for customer satisfaction. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk highlights “Fast delivery” as one of its core strengths, aiming to provide a seamless experience from order to doorstep. Understanding their delivery options, typical timelines, and any potential caveats is essential for customers in the UK.

Standard Delivery Service

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk operates a “premium UK delivery service” with the promise of quick dispatch.

• One Working Day Dispatch Goal: Their primary delivery promise is to get products to your door in “one working day.” This implies a rapid turnaround from order placement to goods leaving their warehouse. This speed is a significant advantage, especially for customers who need underlay quickly to complete a project.
• UK-Wide Coverage: The service extends across the UK, though specific postcodes (e.g., Highlands, Islands) may incur additional charges or longer transit times, which is standard for large item deliveries in the UK. It’s always wise for customers in remote areas to check their specific postcode.
• Courier Service: The website mentions that their “courier service will be taking a break” during holidays, indicating reliance on external logistics partners. This is common practice for online retailers and means delivery performance is also dependent on the courier’s efficiency and network. Major couriers like DPD, Parcelforce, or DX are often used for such items in the UK.

Holiday Trading Information

Transparency regarding delivery during peak seasons is a strong indicator of a customer-focused business. Allaboutunderlay.co.uk explicitly provided Christmas trading information: Winterfieldsafes.co.uk Review

• Christmas Holiday Break: “Our team and courier service will be taking a break between 21st December – 2nd January for the Christmas holidays.”
• Dispatch After Break: “All new orders will be dispatched on 2nd January for delivery that week.”

This clear communication manages customer expectations effectively, preventing frustration over delayed deliveries during a busy period. It demonstrates proactivity in service, a quality valued by 90% of consumers who rate instant responses as important or very important when they have customer service questions, according to a HubSpot report.

Order Tracking

The presence of a “Track Order” feature on the website is a standard and expected functionality for modern e-commerce.

• Visibility for Customers: This allows customers to monitor the progress of their delivery from dispatch to arrival. Providing a tracking number and a link to the courier’s tracking portal empowers customers and reduces the need for direct contact regarding delivery status.
• Reduced Customer Service Inquiries: By offering self-service tracking, the volume of “where is my order?” inquiries to customer service is significantly reduced, improving operational efficiency.

Important Considerations for Customers

While the delivery promise is strong, customers should keep a few points in mind:

• “Working Days”: The “one working day” promise typically excludes weekends and bank holidays. An order placed on a Friday might not be delivered until the following Monday or Tuesday, depending on the courier.
• Cut-off Times: Most online retailers have a daily cut-off time for orders to be dispatched on the same day. This information, while not explicitly stated in the provided text, would usually be found in their full delivery policy. For example, an order placed after 2 PM might be processed the next working day.
• Delivery to Kerbside: For bulky items like rolls of underlay, delivery is typically “kerbside.” This means the courier will deliver to the nearest accessible point to your property (e.g., driveway), and it is the customer’s responsibility to move the goods indoors. This is an important consideration, especially for large orders or if assistance is needed.
• Checking Goods on Arrival: It’s always advisable for customers to inspect the goods upon delivery for any signs of damage before signing for them. If damage is noted, it should be clearly marked on the delivery note.

Overall, Allaboutunderlay.co.uk’s shipping and delivery approach appears robust and customer-friendly. Their focus on rapid dispatch and clear communication, particularly during peak times, indicates a commitment to efficient logistics, which is crucial for consumer trust and satisfaction in the online retail space. Furnitureandflooring.co.uk Review

FAQ

Is Allaboutunderlay.co.uk a legitimate website?

Yes, based on the website’s content, clear product listings, detailed contact information, explicit delivery policies, and professional appearance, Allaboutunderlay.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and professional online retailer specialising in flooring underlays.

What kind of products does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk sell?

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk specialises in a range of flooring accessories, primarily including carpet underlay, laminate and wood floor underlay, carpet grippers, and metal door bars/thresholds.

Does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offer fast delivery?

Yes, Allaboutunderlay.co.uk advertises a “premium UK delivery service” with the aim to get products to your door in “one working day,” although specific holiday dispatch information is also provided.

Are the prices on Allaboutunderlay.co.uk competitive?

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk states they offer “Low prices, always” by “cutting out the middleman,” suggesting their prices are competitive compared to high street carpet shops. Their listed prices for various underlays appear to be in line with competitive online market rates.

Can I track my order from Allaboutunderlay.co.uk?

Yes, the website includes a “Track Order” link, indicating that customers can monitor the status of their delivery after purchase. Happyprinter.co.uk Review

What brands of underlay does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk stock?

The website mentions stocking popular brands such as Cloud 9, Tredaire, Wilsons, and Duralay, indicating a selection of well-known and trusted underlay manufacturers.

Does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offer expert advice?

Yes, they claim “over 25 years’ experience supplying underlay to the trade” and offer “Expert Guides” and “Customer FAQs” to provide advice and support.

What types of underlay are available for carpets?

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offers various types for carpets, including PU Foam Underlay, Sponge Rubber Underlay, and Crumb Rubber Underlay, each suited for different comfort, soundproofing, and durability needs.

Do they sell underlay for underfloor heating?

Yes, they offer specific “Underfloor Heating Underlay” designed to allow heat to pass through efficiently while ensuring the system operates effectively.

Is there a physical store for Allaboutunderlay.co.uk?

The information suggests Allaboutunderlay.co.uk is an online-only retailer, focusing on direct-to-consumer sales without a physical showroom. Pinkpackaging.co.uk Review

How do I contact Allaboutunderlay.co.uk customer service?

The website has a “Contact Us” section, which typically provides details like phone numbers, email addresses, or contact forms for customer inquiries.

What is the return policy for Allaboutunderlay.co.uk?

While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, legitimate online retailers like Allaboutunderlay.co.uk would have a return policy outlined in their terms and conditions or a dedicated returns page.

Does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk sell accessories other than underlay?

Yes, in addition to underlays, they also sell essential flooring accessories such as Royale Carpet Gripper rods and Premier Metal Door Bars & Thresholds.

Is it safe to buy from Allaboutunderlay.co.uk?

Based on the available information suggesting a professional setup, clear policies, and contact details, it appears safe to buy from Allaboutunderlay.co.uk. However, always ensure your connection is secure (HTTPS) when making payments.

How do I choose the right underlay for laminate flooring?

For laminate flooring, you would typically look for specialised laminate and wood flooring underlays, often with built-in damp-proof membranes and sound reduction properties, like the Duralay Heatflow Wood & Laminate underlay offered. Farmworming.co.uk Review

What is the purpose of carpet grippers?

Carpet grippers, like the Royale Carpet Gripper sold by Allaboutunderlay.co.uk, are essential for securely holding carpet in place around the perimeter of a room, preventing movement and ensuring a neat, professional finish.

Does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offer different thicknesses of underlay?

Yes, the product listings on their homepage show a variety of thicknesses, ranging from 3mm for laminate/wood to 12mm for carpet underlays, catering to different comfort and performance needs.

What does “cutting out the middleman” mean for customers?

“Cutting out the middleman” suggests that Allaboutunderlay.co.uk sources products directly from manufacturers or in large volumes, allowing them to offer products at lower prices to the end consumer by avoiding additional retail markups.

Are their door bars suitable for all flooring types?

Allaboutunderlay.co.uk states their Premier metal door bars and thresholds come in various modern colourways and have “options suitable for every type of flooring threshold,” implying versatility across different flooring materials.

Does Allaboutunderlay.co.uk offer discounts or sales?

While not explicitly stated in the provided text, many online retailers offer promotions or sales periodically. Customers should check their website for current offers. Buyersandsellersonline.co.uk Review