Floating vinyl plank flooring does not always require an underlayment. Whether or not you need one depends entirely on the specific product you purchase and your subfloor.
15 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Glue Down Vinyl Plank Flooring
Yes, you can install Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) directly over plywood. However, because LVP is flexible and conforms to the shape of the surface beneath it, proper preparation is essential to prevent bumps, squeaks, or separated seams.
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.
Is It Better To Glue or Float Vinyl Plank Flooring? Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) typically come in both glue-down and floating options. To give you a quick answer, glue-down is usually preferred for commercial flooring installation since it's sturdy enough to hold up against heavy foot traffic.
With a floating flooring installation, the product is not actually attached to the subfloor, meaning it may give off a hollower sound compared to that of the glue down method—though the thicker a product, the quieter it tends to be.
What are the most popular vinyl plank flooring colors in 2026? Light oak, greige, and soft brown tones continue to be favorites. These colors feel fresh and versatile, working well with neutral palettes, natural light, and the relaxed, airy look many homeowners are going for right now.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring typically lasts 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the planks, the thickness of the wear layer, and foot traffic.
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.
When you have a bump or dip in your subfloor, the uneven surface can cause vinyl planks click-lock-systems to become uneven. This will cause creaking or “popping” every time you walk over the floor. An underlayment can help fill in subfloor imperfections and leave your flooring a smooth surface to lay on.
Underlayment is the layer of material that's installed between the subfloor and the flooring. It works as a part of your overall flooring system, which consists of the joists, subfloor, underlayment, and the flooring surface.
10 Beginner Mistakes Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring
For Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, "flatness" is more critical than "levelness". Your subfloor must not deviate more than 3163 over 16 end-fraction𝟑𝟏𝟔 of an inch over a 10-foot span, or 18one-eighth𝟏𝟖 of an inch over a 6-foot span. Exceeding these tolerances causes the locking joints to fail over time.
While Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is incredibly popular for being affordable, water-resistant, and DIY-friendly, it faces significant backlash, particularly from flooring contractors and interior purists. Common complaints include:
Vinyl Plank Installation Cost
Materials: $2-3 PER SQ. FT. Labor: $2-3 PER SQ. FT.
Yes, you can place a refrigerator on top of vinyl plank flooring. Because the floor is highly durable and waterproof, it easily handles the weight and potential spills of a fridge. However, as with any heavy object on a floating floor, taking a few precautions prevents damaging the planks.
Yes, you can absolutely use Dawn dish soap on Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring. Because it is a pH-neutral cleaner, it safely cuts through grease and dirt without damaging the protective wear layer. However, you only need a tiny amount, and you must rinse the floor afterward.
The best mop for vinyl plank flooring is a microfiber flat mop (or a gentle spray mop). It cleans without scratching the wear layer and allows you to control moisture, preventing standing water from seeping into the joints and causing planks to swell or warp.
Avoid using harsh chemicals, excessive water, or abrasive tools on vinyl plank flooring, as these can strip the protective wear layer, dull the shine, or cause planks to warp.
Healthiest Flooring Types Compared
Yes, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is used in luxury and high-end homes, but primarily for practicality rather than prestige. While traditional hardwood or natural stone remains the gold standard for luxury aesthetics and resale value, high-end LVP is frequently chosen for its unmatched durability, water resistance, and low maintenance.
Gray-toned hardwood and laminate. Wide plank farmhouse-style wood. Painted floorboards. Artificial or fake-looking wood.
The best months to buy flooring are late December through February and mid-May to early June. During winter, flooring stores clear out old inventory with deep discounts—often 15–30% off.
If you're wondering which colour floor shows the least dirt, the short answer is medium-tones like beige, taupe, and soft grey. These shades don't contrast sharply with dust, footprints, or pet hair, which makes floors look cleaner for longer in busy homes.