Can you put extra padding under vinyl plank flooring on wood?

Author: Prof. Nayeli Wolff II  |  Last update: Monday, June 9, 2025

If your planks already have a pad-attached underlayment, you most likely won't need an additional one, unless the flooring manufacturer's installation instructions allow for it. However, if your vinyl flooring doesn't have a pad-attached underlayment, adding one is highly recommended.

Can you put extra padding under vinyl plank flooring?

If your planks already have a pad-attached underlayment, you most likely won't need an underlayment. However, if your flooring manufacturers installation instructions allow for an extra underlayment, adding an extra underlayment will provide improved sound reduction, insulation, and moisture protection.

Can you have too much underlayment?

More is not always better, and with underlayment, too much can compromise the integrity of your floor's locking system. Adding additional underlayment under vinyl with an attached pad can create too much cushioning, which causes the floor to come apart through use over time.

Can you put foam under vinyl flooring?

Foam: Being one of the least expensive underlayments you can buy, foam fits as the perfect choice to be put under your vinyl floor, especially if your subfloor is made of plywood. However, make sure that you have no moisture issues as foam and water aren't a good combination when it comes to flooring.

Can you put extra padding under laminate flooring?

Underlayment Comes Pre-Attached

You do get a little more convenience with having attached pad, but underlayment is easy to install.” A separate underlayment will still provide plenty of benefits for anyone who is already set on pad-attached laminate flooring.

Do I Need Pad Under My Vinyl Plank? and 4 Other COMMON ?'s Answered

Can you use 2 layers of underlay under laminate flooring?

Remember that your underlay needs to be as smooth as possible. So, never put two layers on top of each other: this will create unevenness. Immediately secure the first sheets of underlay with a laminate board and work towards the wall.

Can you put padding under wood flooring?

Underlayment is a thin layer of padding—usually foam, rubber, felt, or similar material—placed beneath hardwood floors. It serves multiple purposes, the biggest of which is moisture protection.

Should I put anything under my vinyl plank flooring?

If the vinyl flooring product you choose doesn't have an attached underlayment, you can almost always install directly over the subfloor without one. But to maximize softness, warmth, moisture proofing, and noise reduction, an underlayment is key.

Why does my LVP floor crackle when I walk on it?

When you walk on tile, you are pushing it down into the adhesive, and if the tile is not conformed, you are pushing it into contact with the adhesive which causes the clicking/crackling sound. To fix this, you can usually heat the area for at least a day, and then roll the tile using a 100-pound roller.

How to make vinyl flooring warmer?

You can use an insulating underlay made from foam, cork, or rubber to keep your vinyl floor warm. These materials help retain heat and prevent cold drafts.

Can I put two layers of underlayment?

Adding two layers of underlay can result in floor instability, cause the boards to bend, and weaken the locking system that holds the flooring in place. This instability can lead to damage over time and might void the manufacturer's warranty.

What is the best backing for vinyl plank flooring?

Choosing a vinyl flooring with rubber backing is ideal. Rubber features several properties that make it a quality choice for a long-lasting floor. Rubber is a strong option that can withstand heavy loads. It also offers valuable shock absorption that can help to make your floor more comfortable to walk on.

What to do when water gets under vinyl plank flooring?

If water has seeped under the flooring, it's crucial to dry out the subfloor completely before reinstalling the vinyl. Use fans, dehumidifiers, or professional drying equipment to ensure all moisture is removed.

Why can't you use duo foam under vinyl plank flooring?

Unfortunately, adding insulating underlayment under vinyl flooring will cause the flooring to be unstable. Because vinyl flooring isn't made from wood products, it does not have the same structure that laminate flooring does.

What voids the warranty on vinyl plank flooring?

Accidents, abuse or misuse; • Extreme heat or cold; • Scratching, impact or cutting; • Improper workmanship or installation not in accordance with Dezign North America installation instructions; • Improper maintenance; • Improper fabrication; • Freight damage; • Damages by acts of God; • Planks coming apart at the ...

Is pre-attached underlayment good?

Pre-attached underlayment is a fantastic padding option for many people and is highly recommended for all those thinking of foregoing underlayment but don't feel entirely confident that they'll do well without that layer between subfloor and surface floor. Why? Its affordability and convenience are both huge reasons.

What will damage luxury vinyl plank flooring?

Heavy furniture and commercial appliances getting dragged around are one of the main culprits for destroying luxury vinyl floor tiles. Sometimes things need to be moved, and it's out of your control whether the furniture is lifted correctly or dragged across the floor, causing nasty scrapes and marks.

Does furniture leave dents in LVP?

Yes, if heavy furniture is not properly supported or moved, it can cause permanent damage such as deep indentations, scratches, and tears. Using protective measures like furniture pads, coasters, and sliders can help prevent this.

How long does it take for LVP to settle?

In most cases, you can confidently walk on your floating vinyl plank flooring 24-48 hours after installation once the planks have had time to acclimate and settle. Of course, following the manufacturer's specific guidelines for your product is always a good idea to ensure a successful installation.

What should you not use on vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl Flooring “Don'ts”
  • Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers to clean your vinyl floor.
  • Avoid using detergents, soaps, abrasive cleaners or products intended to add shine to your floors. ...
  • Don't use wax or solvent-based polishes.
  • Don't use ammonia or ammonia-based cleaning solutions.

Can you put vinyl plank flooring directly on the subfloor?

Generally speaking, LVP can be installed directly over subfloors such as concrete or ceramic tile assuming they're clean and level. Additional underlayment may be required if installing over existing hardwood or vinyl sheet floors to protect against moisture damage and sound transmission.

What happens if you don't put a moisture barrier under vinyl flooring?

When moisture penetrates your flooring, it can cause mold, mildew, and the potential for water damage. A moisture barrier helps control the water vapor's movement to help protect your floors. Therefore, if you're installing floors in an area that sees moisture, even a little, a vapor barrier is needed.

What is the rosin paper under vinyl plank flooring?

Flooring Industry

Building Construction typically use red rosin paper to help reduce air and moisture flow through a wall or floor. This creates a “slip sheet” so different materials can slip by each other as they expand and contract. Keeping dust from dust from working down the floor and minimizing squeaking.

Should I put padding under my laminate flooring?

We would recommend an underlay of 3 – 5mm for laminate flooring. It should be at least 3mm thick to provide comfort and ground levelling properties. But, it should be no more than 5mm thick. If it's any thicker, you could experience problems with the laminate's locking system.

What is the padding under flooring called?

Underlayment, or “padding” as it's often called, is the spongy, closed-cell plastic foam sheet that comes in rolls.

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