Underlayment is a term used in construction and is often associated with flooring and roofing projects. Underlayment serves as a layer between the substrate and surface materials to protect against moisture, provide sound insulation, and improve the overall finish. Alternatives to the word underlayment include cushion, padding, layer, or base. Depending on the project requirements, one may choose to use a felt or foam cushion as an underlayment for carpeting, while a rubber or cork underlayment can be selected for hardwood flooring. Likewise, roofing underlayment may use a self-adhesive waterproof layer or an asphalt-coated felt layer. The right underlayment will depend on the project's specific needs and materials.