
The base structure or subfloor also determines whether or not your vinyl flooring requires underlayments. Depending on its material and thickness, the underlayments perform differently acoustically. Also, you might not prefer the “soft bouncy” feel that think vinyl flooring offers.Īdding an acoustic underlay beneath such thin flooring provides durability and stability to it and prevents it from flexing. If it’s thin, you need to use a layer beneath it.Ī thin vinyl flooring may flex and blend easily, or have curve indentation due to point loads of furniture feet. If they include a specific STC and IIC value range, then you must incorporate underlayment in your vinyl plank flooring.Īnother major reason why your vinyl flooring may need underlayments is its thickness. In addition, there are homeowners’ associations or the city/county’s housing authorities that every homeowner has to follow. Otherwise, moisture or heavy furniture may break or damage it.Īlthough the underlayment is not necessarily a need in vinyl flooring, it may be required depending on the building’s waterproofing, acoustic, and other needs. Plus, they need a perfectly leveled surface to be installed and require you to be very cautious in selecting the material for under-leveling. However, one of the setbacks is that vinyl planks are not eco-friendly. In addition, you can find them easily at your nearest depot, and they are also easy to install. Vinyl planks are water-resistant and low-priced as compared to other flooring options. It is made of different materials and is usually manufactured in single rolls or sheets to be laid on the floor and installed between the base structure (Concrete or wooden) and the finished floor surface.

Underlayment for vinyl plank flooring install#
So before we discuss the reasons to use roofing felt under vinyl plank flooring, let’s find out when to install it! When Does Vinyl Plank Flooring Need Underlayment?Īs the name indicates, an underlayment is simply a layer of a specific material used under the surface flooring of a building. However, with how common it is, comes the question of whether or not to use an underlayment with it. Indeed, vinyl plank flooring is quite common and among the best choices due to its low-cost, looks, variations in patterns and thicknesses, and easy accessibility and installation. If it’s true then why use roofing felt under vinyl plank roofing? However, vinyl plank flooring is characterized by its self-sustainability and that it can function properly without an underlayment. In fact, many organizations have included it in their recommendations for roofing and water protection, and many building codes also require its use. Roofing felt is indeed one of the best and the most available underlayments.

Can You Use Roofing Felt Under Vinyl Plank Flooring?
