Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) does not always require an underlayment. It depends on whether your specific LVP has a pre-attached backing and the condition of your subfloor.
Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) do not always need an underlayment. If your LVP has a pre-attached backing or if you are installing over smooth, compliant subfloors, you can skip it. However, adding underlayment provides better soundproofing, extra cushioning, and moisture protection.
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.
To keep luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring in top condition, avoid steam mops, high-heat cleaners, abrasive pads, bleach, ammonia, and oil-based cleaners. Do not use wax or varnish, and avoid using rubber-backed rugs, which can discolor the surface. Instead, use a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner.
Heavy or Sharp Objects Causing Gouges or Tears
One of the most significant risks to vinyl plank flooring care is the impact of heavy or sharp objects. High heels, dropped tools, or furniture legs, especially without protective pads, can easily gouge, scratch, or tear vinyl surfaces.
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.
For plywood subfloors, the best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring (LVP) is a high-density, thin underlayment (1.5mm to 3mm) made of acoustic foam, cork, or synthetic felt. Avoid thick, soft, carpet-like pads, as plywood subfloors already absorb sound, and too much cushion causes LVP locking joints to snap.
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.
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.
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:
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.
Generally, yes. A thicker plank (especially in the 6–8mm range) can better handle minor imperfections in your subfloor, making installation smoother and the finished product look more polished.
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.
While LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) is a popular and durable choice, it has notable drawbacks. Its primary disadvantages include an inability to be sanded or refinished, a vulnerability to dents and sharp gouges, potential VOC emissions, and a generally lower return on investment compared to natural hardwood.
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.
Gray-toned hardwood and laminate. Wide plank farmhouse-style wood. Painted floorboards. Artificial or fake-looking wood.
The most realistic Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring features Embossed in Register (EIR) technology, which perfectly aligns the physical texture of the plank with the printed wood grain. Top industry brands include COREtec for high-end textures and comfort, Karastan for designer-level aesthetics, and Mohawk for pet-resistant performance.
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.
We always recommend removing existing flooring before installing vinyl plank flooring. If you decide to install over existing floors anyways, we recommend adding an underlayment that will cover any potential imperfections from the previous flooring.
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.
Common Signs of Failing Underlayment
Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe for vinyl floors, but only if heavily diluted. It is excellent for cutting grease and grime, particularly in kitchens. However, using too much can leave a cloudy, dull, or sticky film behind.
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.