Best Type of Underlayment for LVP Flooring – Why You Need It

If you’re considering installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring in your home or business, it’s important to understand the role of underlayment. Underlayment is a necessary component for achieving optimal performance and durability from your LVP flooring. It’ s also smooths minor imperfections in the subfloor. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of underlayment, the various types available, and factors to consider when choosing the best option for your particular installation.

Underlayment for LVP Flooring

Underlayment is a crucial aspect of installing luxury vinyl flooring. It serves as a protective barrier between the subfloor and the vinyl planks, providing a myriad of benefits that enhance overall floor quality and user satisfaction.

Enhancing comfort and thermal insulation

Underlayment adds a layer of cushioning to your LVP flooring, improving the overall feel and walking comfort. In addition, thermal insulation properties provided by underlayment materials help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, ensuring that the floor feels comfortable to walk on even during colder months.

Protecting the LVP flooring from moisture damage

A quality vapor barrier underlayment can safeguard your LVP flooring against moisture damage, especially in high-humidity areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It prevents seepage from subfloors, which can lead to warping, discoloration, or even mold growth within the flooring material.

Reducing noise and improving acoustics

Noise reduction is essential in multi-story residential buildings or spaces where noise pollution can be an issue. Underlayment beneath LVP flooring provides a sound-absorbing barrier that reduces the impact and transmission of noise, ensuring a quieter and more pleasant living environment.

Types of Underlayment for Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

There are several underlayment options available for LVP flooring, each with its advantages and drawbacks. It’s essential to choose an underlayment that best suits your specific needs, budget, and installation guidelines.

Foam underlayment

Foam underlayment is a popular choice among homeowners and installers, thanks to its affordability and versatility. It provides adequate cushioning, sound absorption, and moisture resistance. However, foam underlayment may not offer the best thermal insulation and may be less durable than other options.

Cork underlayment

Cork underlayment is an eco-friendly option, made from a renewable resource. It offers excellent sound and thermal insulation, as well as natural mold and mildew resistance. Cork underlayment can be more costly compared to foam, but its long-lasting durability and superior performance can outweigh the initial investment.

Rubber underlayment

Rubber underlayment is known for its exceptional sound reduction and insulation properties. It is an excellent choice for commercial spaces or residential areas where noise reduction is of utmost importance. Rubber is a high-performance underlayment that may be more expensive than other types but guarantees longevity and effectiveness.

Felt underlayment

Felt underlayment is composed of recycled fibers, making it an environmentally friendly option. It is known for its excellent noise reduction and moisture resistance capabilities. Felt underlayment’s primary downside is its higher cost, but its premium performance and eco-friendliness can justify the investment.

Factors to Consider when Choosing LVP Flooring Underlayment

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is rapidly gaining popularity due to its durability, affordability, and the wide range of design options it offers. However, as with any flooring project, it is essential to consider the right underlayment for the best results. This article discusses the essential factors you need to consider while choosing LVP flooring underlayment.

Subfloor type and condition

Before choosing an underlayment, it is vital to evaluate your subfloor’s type and condition. The two most common subfloor materials are wood and concrete. An uneven subfloor can cause the vinyl planking to be unstable or wear unevenly, which is why it’s crucial to ensure a level surface. Some underlayments are specifically designed to help smoothen out minor imperfections on the subfloor.

For wooden subfloors, a thinner, low-density underlayment is usually recommended. This is because wood subfloors already provide some insulation and support, so adding a thick underlayment can actually hinder the LVP flooring’s performance over time.

On the other hand, for concrete subfloors, flooring professionals generally recommend using a high-density underlayment to compensate for the hardness and lack of insulation in the material. This type of underlayment will protect the LVP flooring from potential damage due to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Moisture management requirements

Moisture is detrimental to LVP flooring, so it’s critical to consider underlayment with moisture management features, especially in moisture-prone areas like the basement, bathroom, or kitchen. Waterproof underlayment, such as those with a plastic moisture barrier, can keep your LVP flooring safe from mold, mildew, and premature wear or damage due to moisture seeping through the subfloor.

When working with concrete subfloors, it is essential to choose an underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier. Even though concrete may appear dry, it is a porous material that can hold a significant amount of moisture. This makes it critical to use an underlayment that also acts as a barrier against moisture transmission.

Acoustic performance goals

One of the essential aspects of LVP flooring is its acoustic performance. A quality underlayment can significantly impact the soundproofing and noise reduction in the room where the LVP flooring is installed. If you live in a multi-story building or want to reduce the noise generated by foot traffic, consider an underlayment designed to enhance acoustic performance.

Some underlayments include special sound-reducing properties that help absorb and dissipate noise, providing a more peaceful environment. Keep in mind that the thicker and denser the underlayment, the better it will perform in terms of soundproofing.

Recommendations for Specific LVP Flooring Installations

Now that you know the factors to consider for LVP flooring underlayment let’s explore specific recommendations for different installation scenarios.

Over concrete subfloors

Installing LVP flooring over a concrete subfloor requires keen attention to moisture management. Use underlayment with built-in moisture barriers to protect your LVP flooring from potential water damage. A high-density underlayment, such as a combination of felt and plastic, would provide the required support and moisture protection for the LVP flooring. In addition, make sure to test the moisture level of the concrete subfloor before installation to avoid any complications in the future.

For radiant floor heating systems

If you are installing LVP flooring over a radiant floor heating system, it is essential to choose an underlayment that is compatible with the system. The underlayment should not act as a heat insulator but rather facilitate the transmission of heat from the heating system into the room. Look for underlayments specifically designed for use with radiant heating systems, as these products will be engineered to work well in these conditions.

It is important to discuss your underlayment choice with a flooring expert to ensure compatibility with the specific radiant heating system you are using. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer recommendations for both the LVP flooring and the underlayment for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Selecting an Appropriate Underlayment for Your LVP Flooring

With the increasing popularity of luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, it’s essential to consider the perfect underlayment for your floor. Underlayment does more than provide a smooth surface for your flooring; it also plays an important role in noise reduction, moisture control, and ensuring a comfortable underfoot feel. In this article, we’ll cover various aspects of selecting the best underlayment for your LVP flooring project, such as types of underlayment, pros and cons of different materials, and tips to avoid common mistakes.

Types of Underlayment for LVP Flooring

There are several types of underlayment available on the market that can be used with LVP flooring. Let’s discuss some of the most common types:

Foam Underlayment

Foam underlayment is one of the most common and affordable options for LVP flooring. It comes in various thicknesses, ranging from 2mm to 5mm. Foam underlayment provides excellent cushioning and sound absorption properties, making it a suitable choice for high-traffic areas or multi-level homes. However, it does not provide adequate protection against moisture, and you may need to add a separate moisture barrier to prevent water damage.

Cork Underlayment

Cork is another popular choice as an underlayment for LVP flooring due to its natural sound dampening and insulation properties. It is eco-friendly and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with allergies or chemical sensitivities. Although cork underlayment offers additional moisture resistance compared to foam, you may still need a moisture barrier in areas with high humidity levels or potential water damage.

Rubber Underlayment

Rubber underlayment is known for its exceptional sound absorption qualities, making it ideal for apartment complexes or commercial spaces that require noise reduction. It is also resistant to mold and mildew growth and provides adequate insulation. However, rubber underlayment tends to be more expensive than foam or cork, which can be a drawback for some homeowners.

Felt Underlayment

Felt underlayment is made from recycled materials and offers excellent soundproofing qualities, making it a popular choice for multi-level homes. It is also easy to install due to its inherent flexibility. Felt underlayment provides some level of moisture resistance but may still require a moisture barrier in wet areas.

Expert Opinions on Underlayment for LVP Flooring

When it comes to selecting the right underlayment for your LVP flooring, industry experts have varying opinions. Some believe that rubber or cork underlayment is the most suitable choice, while others recommend felt or foam for specific situations. It is essential to consult your flooring manufacturer or installer to ensure compatibility with your chosen flooring before selecting an underlayment. Remember, using an inappropriate underlayment may void the warranty on your LVP flooring.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Underlayment Selection and Installation

Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes:

1. Ignoring Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Always follow your flooring manufacturer’s recommendations when selecting and installing underlayment. The manufacturer may recommend a specific type of underlayment that can provide the best performance and ensure maximum warranty coverage. Ignoring these recommendations may lead to subpar results or even void your warranty.

2. Improper Installation

Ensure that the underlayment is installed according to the instructions provided. Misaligning, overlapping, or failing to secure your underlayment may lead to uneven surfaces that can damage your LVP flooring over time.

3. Skimping on Quality

Investing in a high-quality underlayment can make a considerable difference in the long-term performance of your LVP flooring. Using low-quality underlayment may result in subpar noise reduction or inadequate moisture protection, leading to additional expenses and frustration in the future.

Resources for Underlayment Selection and Installation

Here are some valuable resources to help you choose the perfect underlayment and execute a successful installation:

1. Flooring Manufacturer

Always check with the LVP flooring manufacturer for specific underlayment recommendations and guidelines. They can provide invaluable advice based on their extensive knowledge and experience.

2. Online Forums

Online forums like Contractor Talk, Flooring Advice, or Houzz offer insights from other homeowners or professionals who have experience with underlayment selection and installation. These platforms can help you get a better understanding of the different options available and their effectiveness.

3. Professional Installers

Consulting with a professional flooring installer can provide valuable advice tailored to your specific needs and preferences. They can recommend the best underlayment options based on your requirements, such as soundproofing, moisture resistance, or insulation.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, selecting the perfect underlayment for your LVP flooring is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. By considering your requirements, understanding the different types of underlayment, and seeking expert advice, you can make a well-informed decision that best suits your needs.

Remember to follow proper installation procedures and invest in quality materials to enjoy the full benefits of your LVP flooring.

FAQs

What is the best underlayment for LVP flooring?

The answer will depend on various factors like the subfloor, the type of LVP flooring, and the level of foot traffic. However, a high-quality underlayment that provides sound and moisture barrier can be the best choice.

Should I use an underlayment with LVP flooring?

Yes, it is always better to use an underlayment with LVP flooring as it offers several benefits, including sound dampening, moisture control, and improved insulation.

Can I use any underlayment with LVP flooring?

No, you need to choose the underlayment that is specifically designed for use with LVP flooring. While regular foam or felt underlayment can be used, they do not provide adequate support or protection and may result in damage to the flooring in the long run.

Can I install LVP flooring without an underlayment?

While it may be possible to install LVP flooring without an underlayment, it is not recommended as it can result in noise and a lack of insulation. Additionally, an underlayment provides a seamless surface for the flooring to rest on and can reduce the risk of damage or wear and tear over time.

How do I choose the right underlayment for my LVP flooring?

When selecting an underlayment for your LVP flooring, it is important to consider the type of subfloor, the level of foot traffic, and the climate in your area. Also, look for an underlayment that is easy to install, provides sound dampening, and has a moisture barrier.

Can I reuse my old underlayment when installing LVP flooring?

It is not recommended to reuse old underlayment when installing LVP flooring as it may be damaged or worn out, which can affect the quality of your new flooring. Always use a new underlayment that is specifically designed for use with LVP flooring. 

Will adding an underlayment increase the height of my floor?

Yes, adding an underlayment will increase the height of your floor, but the height increase is usually negligible. Depending on the type of underlayment you choose, it can add anywhere from one to six millimeters to the height of your floor.