Vinyl plank flooring is growing increasingly popular in homes across the country, and it’s no mystery why. At Landmark Interiors, we’ve seen how this smart, stylish flooring option can elevate homes and businesses with its refined look, realistic textures, and resilience.
Before you dive into installation, there’s one critical question to answer: Do you need underlayment for vinyl plank flooring?
| You’ll Likely Need Underlayment If: | You Can Skip Underlayment If: |
| You’re installing over concrete | The flooring planks have an attached underlayment |
| The subfloor is uneven or prone to noise | You’re laying over a flat, existing vinyl surface with cushioning |
| You’re going over older tile, hardwood, or uncushioned vinyl | The manufacturer guidelines specify “no additional underlayment required” |
| The flooring planks do not have an attached underlayment |
Yes, You Probably Need Underlayment for Your Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is already built to withstand daily wear and tear, with a protective wear layer that resists scratches, dents, and moisture. However, the right underlayment helps ensure long-term performance and comfort.
Underlayment is a thin, supportive layer installed between the subfloor and your flooring material like vinyl plank or tile. It’s usually made from materials like foam, cork, felt, or rubber. Think of it as a helpful buffer that improves comfort, insulation, and durability.
In the case of vinyl flooring, underlayment serves several purposes:
- Smooths out minor imperfections in the subfloor
- Enhances sound absorption
- Adds cushioning underfoot
- Can provide a moisture barrier
Landmark Interiors offers several collections, like our Hilltop Original collection, that include this added layer of comfort and support. If your product already has an integrated underlayment, you may not need an additional one.
However, some settings, like below-grade basements, might still benefit from an extra vapor barrier. Consult your flooring product’s installation instructions to determine whether you need an underlayment.
Choosing the Right Underlayment for Your Vinyl Tile Plank Flooring
According to Floor Trends & Installation, when choosing an underlayment for your vinyl tile plank flooring, it should always be high density.* However, the best underlayment depends on your subfloor and your space’s unique conditions. Here’s a quick breakdown by subfloor type:
Concrete Subfloor
Vinyl flooring over concrete benefits from underlayment that provides moisture protection and insulation. Look for rubber or foam with vapor barrier properties.
Plywood Subfloor
Since moisture isn’t a big concern here, go for underlayment that improves sound absorption and foot comfort. Cork and felt are great options.
Existing Flooring
Installing over hardwood, tile, or old vinyl? Choose an underlayment that cushions and levels the surface. A thin foam layer can smooth imperfections and reduce sound transfer.
Bonus Tip: Don’t double up. If your vinyl tile plank flooring includes an attached underlayment, adding another layer can make the floor too soft, causing instability.
The installation instructions that come with your flooring will detail what kind of underlayment to use for the location in the home and the product you plan to install.
How to Install Underlayment for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Installing underlayment is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Clean the subfloor – Remove all debris and make sure the surface is dry.
- Roll out the underlayment – Lay it in the opposite direction of how you’ll install the planks.
- Trim and align – Leave a small gap around the edges (about 2 inches). Trim excess after installing the flooring.
- Tape the seams – Use clear packing tape or the manufacturer-recommended sealant to secure seams. Avoid overlapping layers.
Optional: Secure the underlayment. In high-traffic areas or sunlit spaces, consider gluing the underlayment to the subfloor to prevent shifting.
While it is possible to DIY the underlayment for your LVP, it’s best to bring in a professional to ensure everything is installed properly. The manual that came with your flooring should also provide vital installation instructions, including whether you need underlayment.
Get the Best Vinyl Plank Flooring for Your Home
Our vinyl tile plank flooring collections are thoughtfully curated to meet real-world needs with timeless style and built-in performance.
Need help choosing the right underlayment or vinyl flooring system? Our products are backed by the full experience of Fishman Flooring Solutions. We make sure all retailers in our network have access to up-to-date product and installation information.
Ready to start your flooring project? Find a Landmark Interiors retailer today.
Please Note: These are general guidelines for installing vinyl plank flooring with an underlayment. For specific product and installation instructions, please consult a flooring professional.