Do You Really Need Underlayment Under Your Vinyl Plank Flooring? We Have the Answer
Sarah and Dan just bought a lovely new home. They plan to install beautiful vinyl plank flooring throughout the first level. "Should we use underlayment under the planks?" Sarah asked her husband. "I have no idea!" admitted Dan. "Let's do some research."
If you're equally puzzled about vinyl plank underlayment, you're not alone. Many homeowners find themselves debating this issue during flooring installation. So what's the verdict? When do you need underlayment under vinyl planks, and when can you skip it? We'll examine the key factors to bring you a definitive answer.
When Underlayment is Crucial for Vinyl Planks
While underlayment is optional in some vinyl plank flooring situations, there are times when it's absolutely essential. Here are the main scenarios where underlayment is a must.
Installing Over Concrete
Concrete subfloors almost always require underlayment prior to laying vinyl planks. Since concrete is porous, moisture can seep through, leading to trapped moisture under the vinyl that promotes mold growth. The underlayment creates a protective moisture barrier.
Underlayment also adds a cushioned layer over the concrete. This increases comfort, as even minor foot traffic noises can echo loudly through concrete.
Adding Sound Insulation
Underlayment acts as a great sound insulation barrier between noisy subfloors and vinyl flooring. This is particularly beneficial in multi-level homes, as it absorbs impact noise transferring between floors.
It also helps reduce loud footsteps in high foot traffic areas. Going underlayment-free risks hearing every footstep reverberate throughout your space.
Improving Comfort
Underlayment provides a literal cushion below vinyl plank flooring. This offers a softer, "air walk" feel underfoot. Underlayment also helps warm up cold tile and concrete subfloors.
Some underlayment options feature decorative textures for added visual appeal. This enhances the floor's aesthetics.
Enhancing Durability
Quality underlayments provide extra scratch, dent, and wear protection for your vinyl planks. This enhances durability and extends the flooring's lifespan. Ultimately, it saves you money by reducing repairs or replacements.
When Underlayment May Not Be Necessary
Now let's examine the vinyl plank flooring situations where underlayment is optional or unnecessary.
Installing Over Wood
Unlike concrete, wood subfloors like plywood or OSB do not require moisture barriers. Here, underlayment is optional depending on your needs for sound insulation.
Also, many vinyl planks now feature pre-attached underlayment. Adding more underlayment with these would be redundant.
Installing Over Existing Flooring
Underlayment is generally unnecessary when installing over existing tile or sheet vinyl floors, provided they are in good condition. The exceptions are if you need increased sound insulation.
Using Vinyl With Pre-Attached Padding
As mentioned for wood subfloors, many vinyl planks have pre-attached underlayment layers. This padding reduces the need for adding separate underlayment in most cases.
In Dry Environments
In arid climates, moisture seeping through concrete is less concerning. Here, underlayment mainly provides sound dampening and comfort rather than moisture protection.
Choosing the Right Underlayment
When underlayment is recommended, consult your vinyl plank manufacturer's guidelines for the right type. Consider your subfloor type and needs for moisture barriers or sound insulation. Then select underlayment thickness and materials like foam, cork, or rubber accordingly.
As you can see, concrete subfloors and sound insulation needs typically call for underlayment under vinyl planks. Whereas wood subfloors, pre-attached padding, and dry climates may not require it.
We hope this definitive guide helps you decide if underlayment is right for your upcoming vinyl plank flooring project. And as always, seek professional advice about your specific installation needs.