
DMX SoundGuard™ – Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the Product
What is DMX SoundGuard™?
DMX SoundGuard™ is a premium underlayment designed to provide superior noise reduction and warmth for your floors. Its tri-layer design offers sound insulation, thermal comfort, and moisture protection, making your living space quieter and more comfortable.
What types of flooring can DMX SoundGuard™ be used under?
It is suitable for use under:
– Engineered hardwood flooring
– Vinyl plank flooring
– Laminate flooring
Does DMX SoundGuard™ tear & rip like other flat foam underlayment?
No, our 12 thou HDPE core provides commercial grade puncture & tear resistance.
How does DMX SoundGuard™ reduce noise?
The underlayment’s advanced tri-layer design absorbs and reduces impact sound (like footsteps) and airborne sound, eliminating the hollow sound common with many floating floors. It’s tested at IIC-74, which makes it ideal for condos, apartments, and upper levels where sound insulation is essential.
Is DMX SoundGuard™ good for basements?
DMX SoundGuard™ can be used in basements, but if moisture management is your top concern, DMX 1-Step 2.0 is the better choice.
DMX SoundGuard™ focuses on superior soundproofing and thermal insulation, ideal for condos, apartments, and upper floors.
DMX 1-Step 2.0™ has an air gap design that allows moisture to evaporate, preventing mold growth, perfect for basements.
How is DMX SoundGuard™ different from DMX 1-Step 2.0™?
DMX SoundGuard™: Designed for condos and upper levels. Provides exceptional noise reduction, warmth, and comfort.
DMX 1-Step 2.0™: Designed for basements and concrete floors. Features an air gap system to manage moisture and prevent harmful mold growth.
Does DMX SoundGuard™ help keep floors warmer?
Yes! The reflective foil layer radiates warmth back into your flooring, adding a layer of comfort underfoot.
Can DMX SoundGuard™ be used in basement or slab-on-grade applications?
We do not recommend DMX SoundGuard™ for basement or slab-on-grade installations. For
these applications, we strongly recommend DMX 1-Step 2.0™, which is designed to allow
moisture vapor from concrete slabs to dissipate. Without this airflow, moisture can become
trapped and may lead to mold or mildew.
My flooring manufacturer says they don’t warranty their flooring if there is an
underlayment used in conjuction. What should I do?
This is very common in the flooring industry. Flooring manufacturers often do not test or
approve flooring underlayments in their systems. We took note of this, and our warranty is
reflected as follows: When installed according to the DMX SoundGuard™ Installation Guide,
DMX assumes responsibility for: DMX SoundGuard™ and the affected floor covering in the
event of a failure related to the product for a duration of 25 years from date of purchase.
If my flooring covers the aluminum layer, how does SoundGuard™ reflect heat?
As heat travels downward through the floor, DMX SoundGuard’s aluminum layer reflects
radiant heat back toward the living space, helping maintain floor temperature.
How much does DMX SoundGuard™ raise floor height?
DMX SoundGuard™ is only 1 mm thick, making the height difference nearly indistinguishable
compared to installing flooring without an underlayment.
Installation
Does it include everything I need for installation?
Yes. Every roll of DMX SoundGuard™ comes with a FREE roll of DMX Joining Tape, so you can properly seal the seams without additional cost.
Where can DMX SoundGuard™ be installed?
Perfect for:
- Home offices or any space where sound reduction is important
- Condos and apartments
- Upper levels of homes
Do I still need DMX SoundGuard™ if my flooring already has an attached underpad?
For basement or slab-on-grade applications, we recommend DMX 1-Step 2.0 for vinyl (5 mm
or thicker), laminate, and engineered hardwood.
For above-grade installations where moisture is not a concern, DMX SoundGuard is still
recommended because it:
● Reduces sound transmission
● Reflects heat back into the living space
● Improves underfoot comfort
● Offers superior durability and tear resistance compared to typical attached pads
What types of flooring can DMX SoundGuard™ be used under?
DMX SoundGuard™ can be used under the following floor coverings:
● Vinyl (plank, peel-and-stick, and glue-down)
● Laminate
● Engineered hardwood
● Solid hardwood (nail-down or click systems)
Which side of DMX SoundGuard™ faces up?
Install DMX SoundGuard™ with:
● The white side facing the subfloor
● The aluminum foil side facing the flooring
What happens if I run out of tape?
Each roll of DMX SoundGuard™ includes a generous amount of DMX Joining Tape. If
additional tape is needed, a standard sheathing tape from your local hardware store is
acceptable
General Inquiries
Where can I purchase DMX SoundGuard™?
If you’re in Canada ![]()
- Home Depot Canada
If you’re in USA ![]()
- Home Depot (Online only)
Where is DMX SoundGuard™ made?
DMX SoundGuard™ is proudly made in Canada.
Can I use DMX Easy Shims with DMX SoundGuard™?
No. DMX Easy Shims™ are only compatible with DMX 1-Step 2.0. DMX SoundGuard™ is a flat
underlayment and does not have the profile required to nest the shims.
What if my condo board requires more than just the IIC rating on your packaging?
Under the “Test Results” tab on our website, both homeowners and condo boards can
access third-party test data for DMX SoundGuard™ to verify its performance claims.
Should DMX SoundGuard™ be installed in the same direction as the flooring?
To minimize joint overlap, we recommend installing DMX SoundGuard™ perpendicular to the
direction of the flooring.
Example: If your flooring runs in a north–south direction, install SoundGuard east–west, or
vice-versa.
Can I double-stack DMX SoundGuard™ to increase sound reduction?
No. Double stacking is not recommended. If additional sound reduction is required, consider
a floor covering with a manufacturer-approved attached pad, which is specifically designed
for that purpose
What is IIC and why is it important?
IIC (Impact Insulation Class) measures how well a floor assembly reduces impact noise such
as footsteps, running, or dropped objects. The higher the IIC rating, the less noise transfers
to the room below. DMX SoundGuard has an IIC rating of 74, which is considered very high
for residential applications.
What can I do with DMX SoundGuard™ if my project is complete and I still have a partial
roll?
Leftover material can be reused in many ways, including:
● Under area rugs
● Inside closets or mudrooms
● Cold storage rooms
● Under workout equipment
Can I use radiant floor heating with DMX SoundGuard™?
DMX SoundGuard™ is often used as a cost-effective alternative to radiant heating. If you plan
to install radiant floor heating, we recommend confirming compatibility directly with the
radiant heat manufacturer, as DMX does not test SoundGuard with these systems.
What if I want to change my flooring in the future?
If DMX SoundGuard™ was installed according to our Installation Guidelines, it can remain in
place. But before installing new flooring, ensure the subfloor is still level and structurally
sound, as minor changes can occur over time

