Why moisture matters under floors
Every flooring system depends on what lies beneath it. The underlayment, the layer between the subfloor and the finished surface, plays a vital role in overall performance. It provides cushioning, stability, and a degree of moisture protection.
However, underlayments can also face one of the biggest challenges in flooring: exposure to moisture. Whether it’s from spills, humidity, or damp concrete subfloors, moisture trapped under flooring can lead to mold, mildew, and odor, all of which compromise product integrity over time.
That’s why moisture management and antimicrobial protection are important considerations in early product design to achieve long-term flooring performance.
What is flooring underlay?
Flooring underlayment is a thin layer of material, typically foam, rubber, felt, or thin plywood, that supports the main flooring layer. It helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections, reduces noise, and adds comfort underfoot.
However, while many traditional underlayments can absorb moisture to help protect the visible flooring above, they don’t actively resist microbial growth.
Traditional vs Antimicrobial Flooring Underlayments
Traditional underlayments can become a haven for mold and mildew when exposed to moisture over time. That can result in:
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Unpleasant odors or discoloration
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Material degradation
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Expensive callbacks or replacements
By contrast, Roberts® AirGuard® Underlayment featuring Microban antimicrobial technology provides continuous, 24/7 product protection against the growth of mold and mildew on the treated surface. The antimicrobial technology is built directly into the material during manufacturing — meaning it won’t wash off, wear away, or diminish over time.
This innovation provides flooring professionals with confidence that their installations will perform as intended, even in high-moisture environments.
Innovation in action: ROBERTS® AirGuard Underlayment featuring Microban
Designed for comfort and sound reduction, it also provides built-in protection that actively resists microbial growth caused by moisture exposure.
For homeowners, contractors, and flooring installers alike, this translates into:
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A cleaner, fresher flooring system
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Long-lasting product integrity
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Added confidence in performance
By integrating trusted Microban antimicrobial technology, Roberts® has combined the practical benefits of advanced underlayment with lasting surface protection, raising the standard for what’s possible beneath the surface.
Why Microban Technology matters
Microban® is a global leader in built-in antimicrobial solutions, trusted by hundreds of brands across diverse industries. In partnership with Roberts®, Microban technology enhances the performance and durability of underlayment products, ensuring lasting surface protection against mold and mildew that can degrade materials and impact flooring systems.
This collaboration exemplifies how built-in Microban antimicrobial technology can transform building materials — from underlayments to other surfaces where moisture and durability are most critical.
