Underlayment isn t a necessity but you might consider it to add noise reducing qualities or additional softness to the product.
Do you need underlay for vinyl plank flooring on concrete.
However you ll want to use one in every other application including covering existing hardwood floors vinyl flooring that isn t cushioned and concrete floors.
The hardest part about it floating is to keep it square as you work.
However some people prefer to add another thin layer of subflooring between the concrete and vinyl.
One thing is certain with underlayment and vinyl plank flooring though and that s the fact that when it s recommended it must be thin and it must be dense.
You leave enough of a gap around the edge that it can expand contract flex whatever but that it s hidden by baseboard.
Vinyl plank is a floating floor which means you don t ever actually attach it to the underlay.
It has to be level and even though vinyl is waterproof a floating floor always benefits from a moisture barrier.
You also do not need an underlayment if your vinyl plank flooring has underlayment installed however you may need a vapor barrier.
If the concrete is uneven you will have to level it out.
Do you need an underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete concrete subfloors are a little bit more tricky when it comes to installation since concrete brings on the aspect of moisture a very hard surface and a chilly floor.
Vinyl planks require hard thin underlay because the product itself is softer.
While underlayment for vinyl planks may be used under hardwood and laminate the reverse is not true.
For the case of concrete floors an underlay is necessary for your sub floor.
An underlayment is basically a layer made from foam rubber or sponge which is placed beneath a flooring.
So technically if you are installing vinyl plank flooring onto concrete you already have a subfloor.
Vinyl plank flooring with a robust backing has some insulation value but not much so if you want the cold concrete to feel comfortable you may have to install a thermal underlayment or even build a raised plywood subfloor.
Second you may want an extra vapor barrier above the subfloor to reduce any risk of moisture.
If you are installing your vinyl plank flooring over a concrete subfloor you may want to use an underlayment for three reasons.
You just lay it over top.
The most asked question is on whether you need underlay for vinyl plank flooring or not.
The key to installing luxury vinyl over concrete is to ensure the floor is level and clean.
At least a few layers sometimes four are needed to install the floors.
This is where underlayment can do the trick.
The underlay adds an extra cushion on your floor and makes it softer and increase the floors insulating capability thus keeps it warm even during winter.
