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10 Best Underlayment For Ceramic Tiles 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

ARDEX FLEXBONE UI 740 Uncoupling Waterproof Crack Isolating Membrane 215 Sq Ft Rolls 1/8" Thick, Load Bearing Floor Underlayment for Ceramic, Porcelain Tiles in Heavy Stress Areas (9 Rolls Bundle)

The ARDEX FLEXBONE UI 740 is a specialized underlayment membrane designed for ceramic and porcelain tiles, particularly suitable for areas with heavy stress such as commercial kitchens, gyms, and hospitals. The product comes in a bundle of nine rolls, each offering 215 square feet of coverage, and is 1/8 inch thick. This thickness provides a stable base for tiles while minimizing height addition.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,203
Ease of Installation

Most important from
5 reviews

Ease of Installation
ARDEX FLEXBONE is much easier to work with, offering flexibility and laying flat without needing staples.
#2
10.0 score

Schluter Ditra-Heat Electric Floor Heating Membrane with Uncoupling, Waterproofing, Vapor Management and Load Support - Ideal for Tiles and Stone - 1/4-Inch Thickness, 134.5 Square Feet Roll - DH512M

The Schluter Ditra-Heat Electric Floor Heating Membrane stands out as a robust underlayment option for ceramic tiles and other stone flooring. Constructed with innovative column-like mortar structures, it distributes the load effectively, ensuring excellent floor stability. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining the integrity of your flooring over time. At a thickness of 1/4 inch, it allows for a smooth transition between different flooring types, minimizing height variations which could be a tripping hazard or aesthetic concern.

Rating
10.0
Thickness
Ease of Installation

Most important from
384 reviews

Thickness
The DITRA-HEAT system offers a lower total Z-height compared to traditional backer-board-plus-heating-mat solutions, making it perfect for matching with existing hardwood floors.
Ease of Installation
Even for an amateur, the installation is straightforward with plenty of how-to resources available on Schluter's website and YouTube.
#3
9.9 score

Houseables Uncoupling Membrane, Tile Underlayment, Tile Membrane, Flooring Underlayment, for Floor, Decoupling, Anti Fracture, Waterproof, Heat, Vapor, 1/8" Thick, 3.3 ft x 98.5 ft / 323 Square Feet

The Houseables Uncoupling Membrane is a solid choice for anyone looking to protect their ceramic tile installation. One of its key strengths is its moisture resistance, which helps prevent water damage to both the tiles and the substrate below. The membrane's primary function is to act as a crack prevention barrier, effectively absorbing the substrate's expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. This feature makes it especially useful for areas where movement may be a concern, ensuring your tiles remain intact over time.

Rating
9.9
Ease of Installation

Most important from
73 reviews

Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward and user-friendly, making it a great choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Top 10 Best Underlayment For Ceramic Tiles 2025 in the United States

Schluter Kerdi 108 Sq Ft Waterproofing Membrane

Material Type: Polyethylene
Thickness: 8 Millimeters
Moisture Resistance: Waterproof
Ease of Installation: thin-set
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Buying Guide for the Best Underlayment For Ceramic Tiles

Choosing the right underlayment for ceramic tiles is crucial for ensuring a durable and long-lasting tile installation. The underlayment serves as a foundation for the tiles, providing support, stability, and protection against moisture. When selecting an underlayment, it's important to consider factors such as the type of subfloor, the environment where the tiles will be installed, and the specific needs of your project. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and achieve the best results for your tiling project.
Material TypeThe material type of the underlayment is important because it affects the durability, moisture resistance, and compatibility with the subfloor and tiles. Common materials include cement board, foam, and uncoupling membranes. Cement board is strong and moisture-resistant, making it suitable for wet areas like bathrooms. Foam underlayment provides good sound insulation and is lightweight, ideal for areas where weight is a concern. Uncoupling membranes help prevent cracks in tiles by allowing movement between the subfloor and tiles. Choose the material based on the specific needs of your project and the environment where the tiles will be installed.
ThicknessThe thickness of the underlayment affects the height of the finished floor and the level of support it provides. Thicker underlayments offer better support and can help bridge minor imperfections in the subfloor. Common thicknesses range from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. For most residential applications, a 1/4 inch thickness is sufficient, but for areas with higher foot traffic or where additional support is needed, a 1/2 inch thickness may be more appropriate. Consider the height of adjacent flooring and doors when selecting the thickness to ensure a smooth transition.
Moisture ResistanceMoisture resistance is a critical factor, especially in areas prone to water exposure like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. An underlayment with high moisture resistance will prevent water from seeping through to the subfloor, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. Cement board and certain types of foam underlayments offer good moisture resistance. If you're installing tiles in a wet area, prioritize underlayments with strong moisture-resistant properties to protect your subfloor and ensure the longevity of your tile installation.
Sound InsulationSound insulation is important if you want to reduce noise transmission between floors, especially in multi-story buildings or apartments. Underlayments with good sound insulation properties can help create a quieter environment by absorbing impact noise and reducing sound transmission. Foam underlayments are known for their sound insulation capabilities. If noise reduction is a priority for your project, look for underlayments specifically designed to provide sound insulation.
Ease of InstallationThe ease of installation can affect the overall time and effort required for your tiling project. Some underlayments are easier to cut, handle, and install than others. For example, foam underlayments are lightweight and easy to work with, while cement boards may require more effort to cut and install. Consider your level of experience and the complexity of your project when choosing an underlayment. If you're a DIY enthusiast, you might prefer an underlayment that is straightforward to install.

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