Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners due to its durability, versatility, and affordability. It mimics the appearance of hardwood while offering a range of benefits, including water resistance and ease of maintenance. However, when it comes to installation, one common question arises: does luxury vinyl plank flooring need underlayment? The answer depends on several factors, including the subfloor, the type of LVP, and the desired performance.
In this article, we will explore the role of underlayment, its benefits, and when it is necessary to use it with luxury vinyl plank flooring.
What is underlayment, and why is it important?
Underlayment is a thin layer of material installed between the subfloor and the finished floor. Its primary function is to provide a smooth surface for the installation of flooring materials, but it also offers additional benefits such as soundproofing, moisture protection, and improved comfort underfoot. When installing luxury vinyl plank, the decision to use underlayment depends on various factors, which we will discuss in detail below.
When is underlayment necessary for luxury vinyl plank?
Type of subfloor
Concrete subfloors
Concrete subfloors are common in basements and ground-level spaces, and they are known for their durability. However, concrete can also be cold, hard, and prone to moisture. In these cases, underlayment is often recommended for luxury vinyl plank flooring. The underlayment acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water vapor from seeping up from the concrete and damaging the LVP. Additionally, it provides a cushioning effect, making the floor more comfortable to walk on and helping to reduce the coldness that can come from concrete.
Wood subfloors
Wood subfloors, such as plywood or OSB (oriented strand board), are more forgiving than concrete, but underlayment can still be beneficial. While wood subfloors typically don’t require a moisture barrier, an underlayment can help smooth out any minor imperfections in the surface and provide additional soundproofing. If the wood subfloor is in good condition and the LVP planks are designed with a built-in underlayment, a separate underlayment may not be necessary.
Type of luxury vinyl plank
LVP with built-in underlayment
Some luxury vinyl plank products come with an attached underlayment, making installation simpler and eliminating the need for a separate underlayment layer. These built-in underlayments typically consist of foam or cork, providing a cushioning effect and reducing noise. If your LVP has an attached underlayment, adding another layer of underlayment underneath could cause the floor to feel too soft or unstable. Therefore, in this case, no additional underlayment is required.
LVP without built-in underlayment
On the other hand, if your LVP does not have an attached underlayment, adding a separate underlayment may be beneficial, depending on the type of subfloor and the desired features. Many homeowners opt for underlayment to enhance soundproofing, provide extra cushioning, and create a moisture barrier when installing LVP without built-in padding.
Benefits of using underlayment with luxury vinyl plank
While underlayment is not always necessary for luxury vinyl plank flooring, it can offer several key benefits that enhance the performance and comfort of your flooring. Let’s explore the main advantages of using underlayment.
Soundproofing
Reducing noise in multi-story homes
If you’re installing LVP in a multi-story home or apartment, soundproofing is a major consideration. Luxury vinyl plank on its own can transmit noise, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic. Underlayment helps absorb sound, reducing the noise that travels between floors. This is particularly beneficial in bedrooms, offices, or any space where peace and quiet are a priority.
Minimizing footfall noise
In addition to reducing noise between floors, underlayment can also minimize footfall noise within a room. This makes the space feel quieter and more comfortable, which is especially useful in living rooms, playrooms, or open-concept spaces where sound can easily travel.
Moisture protection
Protecting LVP from moisture damage
One of the most significant reasons to use underlayment with luxury vinyl plank flooring is moisture protection. While LVP is water-resistant, it is not completely waterproof, and moisture can still seep up from the subfloor, especially in basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Underlayment with moisture barriers helps prevent water vapor from rising and damaging your LVP, ensuring the longevity of your floors.
Comfort and temperature regulation
Adding cushion underfoot
Luxury vinyl plank floors are relatively thin compared to hardwood or tile, which can make them feel hard underfoot. Underlayment adds a layer of cushioning that can make the floor feel softer and more comfortable to walk on. This is especially helpful in high-traffic areas where people spend a lot of time standing, such as kitchens or living rooms.
Insulating cold floors
For homes with concrete subfloors or those in colder climates, underlayment can also serve as an insulating layer, helping to keep the floors warmer. This is particularly useful in basements or ground-level rooms where the temperature tends to be cooler. The added insulation from underlayment helps to create a more comfortable living environment.
When underlayment is not necessary
While there are many benefits to using underlayment with luxury vinyl plank, there are situations where it may not be necessary.
LVP with built-in underlayment
As mentioned earlier, many modern luxury vinyl planks come with an attached underlayment. If your LVP already has this feature, adding an additional layer could make the floor too soft, reducing stability and potentially leading to issues with the planks clicking together properly.
Smooth and even subfloors
If your subfloor is already smooth, flat, and free of imperfections, you may not need underlayment. In this case, the LVP can be installed directly on the subfloor without issue, saving time and money during installation.
So, does luxury vinyl plank need underlayment? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of subfloor, whether the LVP has built-in underlayment, and your desired level of comfort, soundproofing, and moisture protection. In some cases, underlayment can provide added benefits like noise reduction, moisture barriers, and increased comfort. In other situations, such as when using LVP with attached underlayment or on a smooth subfloor, it may not be necessary.
To ensure the best installation for your luxury vinyl plank flooring, it’s important to consider your specific needs and the characteristics of your home. At Allen + Laine, we offer expert advice and a wide range of flooring options to help you make the right choice. Visit our Fort Wayne, IN store or explore our website to find the perfect flooring solution for your home.
