Does LVP need underlayment?

Author: Audra Predovic  |  Last update: Saturday, April 5, 2025

LVP underlayment is a thin layer of material installed between the subfloor and your vinyl planks. While it might seem like an optional step, it plays a vital role in the performance, comfort, and longevity of your flooring.

What happens if you don't put underlayment under vinyl plank flooring?

If unprotected, moisture can build up underneath your laminate flooring and cause warping of the planks.

Can LVP be installed directly on subfloor?

Generally speaking, LVP can be installed directly over subfloors such as concrete or ceramic tile assuming they're clean and level.

Does all LVP need a moisture barrier?

In short, yes. It's a misnomer that Luxury Vinyl Planks do not need a moisture barrier. If you are putting this type of flooring over your concrete and the contractor does NOT do a moisture, calcium chloride or RH test on your concrete, then they must put a moisture barrier down.

Does LVP need underlayment on concrete slab?

Moisture is always moving within the concrete, and the material can secrete from it over time. This may result in mold that can be particularly damaging to your home. If installing over concrete, use a underlayment that has a moisture barrier built in.

Why You Need Underlayment For Your Floors

What goes between LVP and concrete?

Step 1: Prepare your surface

Prepare your concrete floor. Make sure it is clean and dry, and then lay out your underlayment of choice. We decided to use Sentinel Protect Plus Underlayment for our project, and laid out one strip at a time as we moved across the floor.

Does vinyl flooring with attached padding still need underlayment?

While vinyl flooring with an attached pad provides a basic level of cushioning and sound absorption, investing in a high-quality rubber underlayment like Dura Undercushions can elevate the functionality and longevity of your flooring.

Can mold grow under vinyl plank flooring on concrete?

Yes, mold can grow under vinyl flooring if moisture becomes trapped underneath the flooring material. Vinyl flooring is not a breathable material, which means that moisture cannot escape through the flooring.

What happens if no vapor barrier is installed?

“For minor projects, the absence of a vapor barrier leads to water intrusion, leading to an unstable foundation or a cracked slab.” The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) outlines national standards for underslab vapor barriers.

Does water get under LVP?

One of the problems we frequently hear from homeowners is having water under vinyl plank flooring. However, the resistance is eliminated by subfloor pipes which may have leakages to damage. This moisture is sneaky and may affect your floor, creating unforeseen complications.

Does LVP need underlayment on plywood?

Plywood Subfloor: With plywood, an added moisture barrier isn't necessary, but you will want one that offers more comfort and reduces sound noise. Existing Floors: The idea remains the same when installing over plywood, tile, vinyl, and hardwood - the underlayment should provide sound reduction and comfort.

What is the best underlayment for LVP floors?

What is the Best Underlayment for Vinyl Plank Flooring? High-density foam is one of the most preferred choices for vinyl plank flooring.

Do I need to fill grout lines before laying vinyl plank flooring?

When you're laying LVP over existing tile, the grout lines are one of the first things you'll need to address. Grout lines can create a slightly uneven surface, and if not smoothed out, they might become visible through the LVP, creating an unsightly “telegraphing” effect.

Can you install LVT without underlayment?

And, as you can imagine, gluing the luxury vinyl tiles or planks to a soft underlay material would result in a wobbly, unstable surface, not to mention a lot of mess – not really what you want for your new LVT floor! All this, means there's simply no underlay required at all.

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.

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.

Is a vapor barrier necessary for LVP?

Luxury vinyl plank manufacturers mention only vapor barrier in their installations. They recommend this due to not allowing (concrete subfloor) getting moisture or alkalinity to your flooring choice. This will eliminate any potential for claims or damages to the manufacturers flooring.

When not to use vapor barrier?

Don't: Put Vapor Barriers on the Bottom of the Floor Joist in the Crawl Space. Because vapor barriers are good at retaining moisture, putting plastic sheeting on the joists can cause moisture to build up under the floor.

Is Tyvek a vapor barrier?

Is DuPont Tyvek® a vapor barrier? No, DuPont Tyvek® is not a vapor barrier. It is made with unique material science to keep air and bulk water out while allowing moisture vapor inside walls to escape.

What should I put between vinyl plank and concrete?

Concrete. If your vinyl flooring has a pad attached, you can install it directly over the concrete subfloor. If you don't have a pad attached then consider using a 1mm or less foam pad to help the floor float properly.

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.

How to prevent mold under LVP?

While waterproof vinyl flooring is highly resistant to moisture, it works best when paired with proper ventilation. Ensuring that bathrooms and kitchens are equipped with fans or windows can help to reduce the overall humidity levels, further discouraging mold and mildew development.

Does 5mm LVP need underlayment?

If you're laying the LVP over an existing cushion-backed vinyl floor or a below-grade tile floor, you won't need to use an underlayment. However, you'll want to use one in every other application, including covering existing hardwood floors, uncushioned vinyl flooring, and concrete floors.

What flooring does not require underlayment?

Underlayment Not Required - Laminate Wood Flooring - The Home Depot.

What is the best LVP flooring?

2025's Top Picks: Best Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Brands Reviewed
  • #1 Proximity Mills.
  • #2 Canopy Floors.
  • #3 Liberty Home.
  • #4 Doma.
  • #5 Newton.
  • Honorable Mentions.
  • #6 Armstrong.
  • #7 Mannington.

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