Laminate vs Carpet For Home Cinema Area

Vern1961 · 16 Jan 2017 at 18:14

The carpet in our lounge is pretty much on its last legs and we've decided this year it has to go. Considering (decent) laminate as we can fit it ourselves and will probably work out a bit cheaper than carpet for the same area. However... we do have a home cinema surround system so I'm just a bit concerned as to the effect putting laminate down vs soft floor covering will have on the acoustics of the room. Last thing we want is for the sound to be hollow or subject to echo.

Any thoughts on whether this should be a worry or does laminate with decent underlay provide the same sound environment as a carpet?

Kol · 16 Jan 2017 at 18:57

I wouldn't. Regardless of the underlay the flooring will now be a reflective surface so reflect the sound. That would make it a no from me.

Nick1881 · 16 Jan 2017 at 22:30

Stick with carpet or get a nice big thick rug on top of the laminate.

Vern1961 · 17 Jan 2017 at 07:49

Thanks guys, carpet it is then.

coolsurfer · 21 Jan 2017 at 12:26

In winter you'll appreciate it

Psycho Sonny · 21 Jan 2017 at 12:46

I have wooden glooring in my living room where the 5.1 system is.

I have a wooden coffe table too, as well as a wooden feature wall. i have 3 large fabric sofas though that should absorb sound and they are dotted around the room.

i find i don't have any issues tbh but the only way i could fix any issues would compromise the look of the room.

also a large rug would make the room feel smaller IMO.