Yes. Concrete subfloors often present moisture issues that can compromise the integrity of LVP flooring. A rubber underlayment from Dura Undercushions acts as a barrier from bacteria such as mold and mildew, protecting your flooring from potential damage while also providing sound dampening benefits.
What is the standard thickness range for luxury vinyl plank flooring? Most LVP planks range from 2mm to 8mm in thickness. What thickness is best for high-traffic areas? Floors between 5mm and 7mm typically perform best in busy spaces.
Thicker isn't always better when it comes to LVP underlayment. Many manufacturers specify a maximum thickness (often around 1.5mm–2mm) to ensure the floor's locking system remains tight and stable. Too much cushion can cause joint separation over time. 1mm–1.5mm: Best for floors with pre-attached padding.
If unprotected, moisture can build up underneath your laminate flooring and cause warping of the planks.
Too much cushioning can cause the planks to flex or unlock. Most LVP works best with underlayment that is 1–1.5 mm thick.
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.
15 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Glue Down Vinyl Plank Flooring
If your subfloor is smooth, clean, and dry, LVP can often be installed directly over it without any additional padding. Uneven surfaces, however, might require a leveling compound or an underlayment to ensure the planks lie flat.
Short answer: yes, mould can grow under vinyl flooring — but only when moisture gets trapped between the planks and the subfloor. Vinyl itself is non-porous, so the planks don't host mould.
Common Signs of Failing Underlayment
Yes. Thicker planks tend to absorb more sound and feel more cushioned underfoot—especially important in bedrooms, upstairs areas, or for families with kids or pets.
Felt is a popular underlayment choice, offering better sound control than foam. With foam, you also have the option to choose an attached vapor barrier, and it provides better insulation than foam and cork.
1/2" plywood is too thin for most subfloor applications and will flex or sag, especially if joist spacing is 16 inches or more. This can lead to squeaky floors and structural issues. -> The minimum recommended is 5/8" plywood, but 3/4" is preferred for strength and long-term durability.
While there might be concerns about 5mm Luxury Vinyl Flooring being too thin, its durability depends more on the wear layer than the overall thickness. For example, a 5mm flooring option with a 0.5mm wear layer provides ample durability for most residential applications.
With its waterproof properties, scratch resistance, and easy maintenance, 5mm lvp is a low cost and ideal thickness that is a practical and durable flooring choice for many homeowners.
6–12 mil wear layers are best for light residential use, guest rooms and low-traffic areas. 12–20 mil is ideal for busy homes with kids and pets, your everyday family use. 20+ mil is where you enter light commercial territory, rental properties, small shops, and offices.
Warm Neutrals and Earthy Flooring Color Palettes
Shades such as honey, caramel, chestnut, and natural oak bring depth without overpowering your décor, and they pair naturally with clay, terracotta, sage, and the muted greens showing up in paint trends and furniture.
When Underlayment is Not Necessary for Laminate Flooring
The thickness of underlayment seems to be the question that most customers struggle with. That's because with underlayment the thickness isn't the most important consideration. Other factors like type, sound ratings, and density matter just as much, if not more than the thickness.
Preparation Mistakes That Lead to LVP Installation Failure
Any uneven spots, old adhesive, or leftover debris from an existing floor can transfer through luxury vinyl or stress the locking system. The result is a floor that moves, clicks, or separates. Moisture conditions matter as well.
Yes. Both dry and wet Swiffer mops are safe to use on vinyl plank, as long as you're using cleaning pads that don't leave behind residue. Just avoid soaking the floor.
Generally speaking, vinyl sheet flooring will last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, while vinyl plank and tile flooring will last 15 to 20 years. The thickness of its wear layer vastly impacts vinyl flooring's lifespan, so pay attention to this detail when purchasing your flooring.
Underlayment is a thin layer of material placed between the subfloor and your LVP flooring. Though often hidden, it plays an essential role in creating a smooth, quiet, and stable surface. Think of it as the unseen foundation that enhances comfort and protects your investment.
Vinyl Plank Installation Cost
Materials: $2-3 PER SQ. FT. Labor: $2-3 PER SQ. FT.
No subfloor is perfectly level, but any signs of unevenness and high or low spots must be remedied. Please follow these requirements: Subfloor unevenness cannot be greater than 3/16 of an inch over a 10-foot span or 1/8 inch over a 6-foot span.