Does laminate flooring make your house colder

We’re thinking of replacing carpet downstairs and I’m a bit worried laminate will make the rooms feel chilly, especially in winter. Any thoughts? Is there any way to combat this? I don't want to burn even more money on my bills

Asked by Karen on 9th Mar 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"Not necessarily. Laminate itself isn’t cold, but it can feel cooler than carpet because carpet holds warmth and laminate doesn’t trap heat in the same way.
In most homes, this comes down to what’s underneath. If laminate is laid with a good quality underlay and the subfloor is properly prepared, it shouldn’t make the room feel noticeably colder.

If you’re concerned about warmth:
• use a decent thermal underlay
• make sure gaps/draughts around the floor are sealed properly
• add rugs in seating areas if needed

Many customers switch from carpet to laminate and don’t notice much difference once the heating is on — it mostly comes down to installation and insulation rather than the laminate itself."
Answered on 9th Mar 2026 - Member since Nov 2025 - report
"High-Quality Underlay (Crucial): This is the most important factor. She should look for underlay with a high TOG rating (thermal resistance). A thick, foil-backed underlay acts as a thermal barrier between the cold subfloor and the laminate.
​Area Rugs: Use rugs in "high-dwell" areas like under the sofa or next to the bed. This gives the comfort of carpet where it's needed most while keeping the laminate look elsewhere.
​Check for Drafts: Since she's removing carpet (which might have been blocking gaps under skirting boards), she should ensure the perimeter of the room is well-sealed to prevent "ghost drafts.""
Answered on 9th Mar 2026 - Member since Jun 2024 - report
"Not at all,if you are using an underlay good quality,there is not gonna be colder...evena wormer.
Use the fibre underlay,,,is more expensive but it worth.
You can find it at B and Q and many other stores"
Answered on 9th Mar 2026 - Member since Sep 2024 - report
"I recommend premium underlay.. if there's damp or high moisture inside your house it will make it feel colder than carpet"
Answered on 9th Mar 2026 - Member since Jan 2026 - report
"I don't think laminate make it colder it's depends on what you have on the ground like if it's wooden floor it may be a bit warmer the concrete
If you already have the laminate change it to carpet which is good option to keep your house warmer ."
Answered on 9th Mar 2026 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"Sorry to disagree with my fellow tradesman but I’ve been fitting laminate for many years and have it indoors and it’s definitely colder to walk on than carpet, I keep my slippers on otherwise my feet feel cold. Bright side is in the warmer months it’s easier to keep rooms cool with laminate or LVT"
Answered on 9th Mar 2026 - Member since Dec 2016 - report
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