Best Underlayment For Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Concrete (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring over concrete, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. First, it’s important to consider the thickness of the underlayment. A thicker underlayment can provide greater cushioning and soundproofing, but it may also raise the height of the flooring and cause issues with doors and transitions. Additionally, the material of the underlayment can impact its effectiveness in reducing sound and preventing moisture from seeping through the concrete.
When choosing an underlayment for vinyl plank flooring over concrete, it’s also important to think about the specific needs of the space. For example, if the room is prone to moisture or high levels of foot traffic, a moisture barrier or more durable underlayment may be necessary. It’s also a good idea to consider the installation process and whether the underlayment can be easily installed by DIYers or if professional installation is recommended.
If you’re still unsure about which underlayment is best for your vinyl plank flooring over concrete, consider asking yourself some guiding questions. Are you planning on installing the flooring in a high-traffic area? Do you have concerns about moisture or soundproofing? Would you prefer an underlayment that can be easily installed without professional help? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and make a more informed decision.
10 Best Underlayment For Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Concrete
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This product is ideal for use as a flooring underlayment padding with tape and vapor barrier for heavy duty foam.
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This product is ideal for creating a protective, insulated subfloor with an air gap to prevent water damage and improve warmth.
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This product combination is ideal for using as an underlayment for laminate flooring installation.
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It is ideal for use as an underlayment beneath hard surface flooring.
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5
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Ideal for use as an underlayment for wood and laminate flooring, covering up to 400 sq. ft.
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6
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This product is ideal for providing sound and moisture barrier for laminate, vinyl, and hardwood floors.
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7
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The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for laminate and hardwood floors to prevent moisture damage.
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8
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This product is ideal for use as flooring underlayment with vapor barrier properties, measuring 2mm in thickness and covering an area of 100sq.ft.
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9
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This product is ideal for providing sound and moisture protection between subfloors and flooring materials.
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10
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Ideal for sound reduction and moisture protection as an underlayment for hardwood, laminate, and engineered flooring installations.
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1. Premium Flooring Underlayment With Vapor Barrier – 400sqft
The AMERIQUE Premium 3 mm Thick Flooring Underlayment Padding with Tape & Vapor Barrier is a top-quality product designed to provide optimal protection against mold and moisture. Its 3mm closed foam technology is specially engineered for sound reduction, making it a great choice for homeowners who value a peaceful and quiet environment.
This underlayment padding also features anti-crush technology that ensures excellent performance and long life, making it perfect for use with wood, bamboo, and laminate floors. It is designed to be easy to install with a self-adhesive strip that allows for fast and hassle-free installation.
The 400SQFT AMERIQUE Premium 3 mm Thick Flooring Underlayment Padding with Tape & Vapor Barrier 3 in 1 Heavy Duty Foam comes in a pack of 2, providing a total coverage of 400 square feet, with each roll covering 200 square feet. The silver chrome color adds a sleek and modern look to any space, making it a great investment for homeowners looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their homes.
In addition to its sound reduction and anti-mold properties, the AMERIQUE Premium 3 mm Thick Flooring Underlayment Padding with Tape & Vapor Barrier also comes with a vapor barrier that provides an extra layer of protection against moisture, ensuring that your floors remain in pristine condition for longer.
Installation is easy and straightforward, thanks to the overlap and adhesive strip that allows for a secure and seamless fit. This underlayment padding is non-allergenic, making it a safe and healthy choice for your home.
2. Insul-Armor: Protect, Warm, Soft Subfloor
The DRICORE Insul-Armor floor panels are the perfect solution for homeowners looking for an easy-to-install, durable, and insulated subfloor. Equipped with Air Gap Technology, these panels help protect against moisture and small water leaks, ensuring better air quality.
Designed with a high-density material, these basement subfloor panels are ideal for laminate flooring, engineered wood floors, and basement refinishing. The advanced tongue and groove design of these lightweight subfloor panels makes installation easy and fast, with no power tools or taping required. In fact, a 500 sq. ft. room can be completed in an afternoon!
These insulated subfloor panels elevate finished floors to create a thermal break from cold concrete floors, providing warmth and comfort all year round. With an R-value of 4.1, these premium flooring panels make floors feel warm, and are compatible with all types of hard surface finished flooring.
The DRICORE Insul-Armor panel is the most premium subfloor for maximum comfort and protection, and can support up to 3,650 lbs. per sq. ft. Each panel weighs 1.63 lbs, and is made with a specially engineered EPS foam panel with a density of 3 pounds. Whether you're using laminates, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), engineered hardwood, or carpet, this subfloor panel is the perfect solution.
Finally, homeowners can be confident in their purchase, as DRICORE offers a 25-year limited warranty on their flooring insulation products. These subfloor panels are waterproof, providing a layer of protection against moisture and cold coming from the concrete. The Insul-armor is a necessity for any home renovation or basement finishing project, and is the best subfloor on the market.
3. Quietblue Underlayment System With Tape
Looking for an underlayment that can provide superior sound reduction and moisture protection? Look no further than this product! This underlayment is designed to work with laminate, floating engineered, and luxury vinyl plank flooring that is 5mm thick or thicker.
One of the key benefits of this underlayment is its superior sound reduction capabilities. Made from recycled fibers, it absorbs sound and prevents it from traveling to other rooms. This makes click-together floating floors sound much more solid underfoot.
In addition to its sound reduction properties, this underlayment is also compression resistant. Its dense recycled fiber structure supports the click-together mechanism and will uphold its supportive configuration even under consistent traffic from the overlying floor.
But that's not all – this underlayment also offers moisture protection. The recycled fibers allow for installation over concrete to "breathe," managing vapors from becoming bulk moisture. And with an attached vapor barrier, the overlying floors are protected from harmful moisture.
This underlayment is also incredibly versatile. It can be used to join underlayment seams and is compatible with any brand of underlayment. It's moisture resistant, making it great for general multipurpose use.
So whether you're looking for superior sound reduction, compression resistance, or moisture protection, this underlayment has got you covered. And with a size of 1-7/8 in. x 100 ft. (48 mm x 30.5 m), it's sure to meet all of your flooring needs.
4. Qep 72001q Natural Cork Underlayment 1/2 Inch Sheet 150 Sq. Ft. (25 Sheets) , Brown
This product is a high-quality soundproofing solution that can significantly reduce sound transmission from both the surface of a floor and through it to living spaces below. It is versatile and can be used under various flooring types including ceramic tile, stone, marble, engineered hardwood, and laminate floors. Moreover, it acts as a crack isolation membrane that resists the transfer of stress cracks from the subfloor through to the flooring surfaces.
In addition to its soundproofing capabilities, this product also reduces thermal transmission, which enhances the effectiveness of floor heating systems. It is easy to install in both glue-down and loose-lay configurations, making it a convenient option for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
This soundproofing solution boasts a Delta IIC value of 24, which indicates its superior ability to reduce impact sound transmission. Furthermore, it has a Sound Transmission Class (STC) of 62 and an Impact Insulation Class (IIC) of 71 when installed over an 8” concrete floor with a suspended ceiling. These impressive values are a testament to the product's exceptional soundproofing performance.
5. Xl Foam Underlayment For Wood & Laminate
This 3/32 inch (93.75 mil) thick Polyethylene Foam is the perfect addition to your laminate or engineered wood flooring installation. It not only adds comfort and cushioning underfoot, but also corrects minor imperfections in your subfloor.
With a roll size of 400 sq. ft., this foam is easy to handle, roll out, and install. Its thickness ensures that it provides sufficient padding to your flooring while not being too bulky.
This foam is made of high-quality polyethylene material that is durable and long-lasting. It is designed to withstand constant foot traffic and retain its shape over time.
Additionally, this foam is compatible with a variety of flooring types and can be used in both residential and commercial settings. Its ability to correct minor subfloor imperfections ensures that your flooring looks smooth and even.
6. Ecosound Barrier Flooring Underlayment – 90 Sqft
Introducing QuietBoard – the ultimate solution for correcting gaps between trim and flooring while enhancing your living space's sound and thermal insulation. With QuietBoard's subfloor lift technology, you can easily eliminate uneven floor level imperfections and reduce trip hazards in room to room transitions, saving you both time and money in replacing door frames.
The high-rated sound barrier and energy-efficient properties of QuietBoard are truly impressive. The dense recycled fiber structures have the strength to absorb high levels of both impact and ambient sound while providing impressive R-value energy insulation. This creates the ideal energy-efficient and harmonious living space by minimizing unwanted walking and room noises while maintaining room temperature.
QuietBoard's Eco-Wick waterproof system is designed to maintain a healthier living environment under the floors. Our recycled fibers can hold up to 5X its weight in moisture while maintaining its shape and functionality. These fibers are treated, allowing moisture vapors over concrete to breathe, never becoming trapped into harmful droplets of water. This feature offers impactful quality and a healthy ecosystem under and above the floor.
Our integrated metallicized film barrier adds additional and powerful moisture protection for you above flooring from water below while providing thermal reflection properties. This feature contributes to a more comfortable and safe environment, free from dampness and moisture-related issues.
QuietBoard is made in the USA using 100% recycled material. Our extremely dense panelboard construction increases floor stability and minimizes flex between planks, making floors solid and comfortable underfoot. Its durable and lightweight design doesn't rip, tear, or crumble, reducing waste and ensuring your floor has complete, long-lasting coverage. This feature satisfies credits under the LEED Green Building Program.
QuietBoard is approved for use with all Vinyl Planks, Glue Down Sheet Vinyl, All Vinyl Tiles, Laminate, Carpet/Carpet Tile, Floating & Glue Down Wood, Radiant Heat Systems, and Pad Attached Flooring – making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.
7. Moisture-Proof Flooring Underlayment For Laminate/hardwood Floors
Introducing a high-quality underlayment that provides excellent protection and comfort for your flooring – the 200 sq. ft. roll size underlayment. This underlayment offers superior moisture protection, thanks to its built-in moisture blocking film. You don't need to worry about purchasing additional films, as this underlayment has got you covered.
Apart from moisture protection, this underlayment is designed to help reduce noise from foot traffic, making it perfect for active households. It also minimizes the hollow sound that's often associated with floating floors, ensuring a quiet and peaceful environment.
This underlayment is suitable for use with laminate, engineered wood, and solid hardwood floor systems, making it a versatile option for various flooring types. Plus, it's incredibly easy to install, thanks to its roll-out design and included tape that connects the seams effortlessly.
If you're looking for maximum comfort, this underlayment is the perfect choice as it features a cushioned foam that smooths out minor subfloor imperfections and irregularities. Additionally, it increases thermal and sound insulation, ensuring a comfortable and cozy environment for your home.
8. Bestlaminate Vapor Barrier Floor Roll – 2mm Thick!
This product is a game-changer for those who value convenience and efficiency in their home renovation projects. The 2mm 3in1 Construction roll comes with a pre-attached tape strip and plastic overlap, making installation a breeze. It is suitable for both wood and cement subfloors, making it versatile and adaptable to your flooring needs.
The 3in1 construction makes it great for laminate and engineered floating floors, ensuring a smooth and seamless installation. The product's parameters make it ideal for those who prioritize durability and longevity in their flooring.
One of the standout features of this product is its affordability. The price per 100 sq.ft roll is unbeatable, making it a cost-effective solution for any homeowner looking to upgrade their flooring.
The product's specifications are designed to make installation as fast and easy as possible. With a pre-attached tape strip and plastic overlap, the product's installation process is streamlined and requires minimal effort.
This product is also an excellent choice for those who value timely delivery. Fast and free FedEx Ground shipping ensures that the product will arrive promptly and efficiently.
9. Prime Unicorn Flooring Underlayment 100 Sf
The Prime Unicorn Underlayment is a versatile flooring accessory that is designed to work with a variety of flooring types, including hardwood, laminate, engineered wood, WPC, and SPC. With its superior acoustical performance, this underlayment effectively reduces unwanted noise transmission between floors, making it an ideal choice for multi-story homes or apartments.
One of the standout features of the Prime Unicorn Underlayment is its natural moisture barrier. The closed cell foam construction of this underlayment effectively prevents moisture from seeping into the subfloor, protecting your flooring investment from damage caused by moisture buildup.
Installation of the Prime Unicorn Underlayment is a breeze, thanks to its simple roll-out design. Once you have laid out the underlayment, simply join the seams using the included Prime Unicorn Underlayment TAPE. This easy installation process helps to save time and effort, making it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts and flooring professionals alike.
With its coverage of up to 100 square feet, the Prime Unicorn Underlayment is an economical choice for covering large areas. Whether you are renovating your home or looking to install new flooring in a commercial space, this underlayment is a reliable and durable choice that offers both protection and performance.
10. Floormuffler Ultra Seal Underlayment 100sf
This product boasts top-notch acoustic protection with an impressive IIC rating of up to 74 dB and a ∆IIC rating of up to 25 dB, ensuring that sound is effectively absorbed and reduced. Additionally, it has an STC rating of up to 73 dB, providing exceptional sound insulation for any space.
In terms of moisture protection, this product is unmatched, with a rate of only .3 lbs / 1000 ft² / 24 hr, making it an ideal solution for areas that are prone to moisture and water damage.
This product is recommended for both residential and commercial floor installations, ensuring that it can meet the needs of any space. Whether it's for a home renovation or a large commercial project, this product is versatile enough to provide reliable and long-lasting performance.
Best Underlayment For Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Concrete FAQs
Are there any underlayment options specifically designed for vinyl plank flooring on concrete in high-moisture areas?
Yes, there are underlayment options specifically designed for vinyl plank flooring on concrete in high-moisture areas. One such option is a vapor barrier underlayment, which is designed to prevent moisture from penetrating the flooring and causing damage. These underlayments are typically made of polyethylene foam or felt and have a moisture barrier layer built in.
Another option is a cork underlayment, which provides both moisture protection and sound insulation. Cork is a natural material that is resistant to moisture and mold, making it a good choice for high-moisture areas. It also has a cushioning effect that can help reduce noise.
Finally, there are also underlayments that are specifically designed for use with vinyl plank flooring. These underlayments are typically made of foam or rubber and are designed to provide cushioning and support for the flooring while also protecting against moisture.
Ultimately, the best underlayment option for vinyl plank flooring on concrete in high-moisture areas will depend on the specific needs of your project. It's important to consult with a flooring professional to determine the best underlayment option for your particular situation.
Can I install vinyl plank flooring directly on concrete without an underlayment?
Yes, you can install vinyl plank flooring directly on concrete without an underlayment. However, before installation, it is crucial to ensure that the concrete subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any unevenness on the concrete surface can affect the final result of the flooring. Therefore, it is recommended to level the concrete subfloor using a self-leveling compound or sanding down any high spots.
Although underlayment is not necessary for vinyl plank flooring installation on concrete, it can be helpful in certain situations. For instance, if the concrete subfloor is extremely uneven, an underlayment can provide extra cushioning and support to the vinyl planks. Additionally, underlayment can act as a moisture barrier and reduce the chances of moisture damage to the vinyl planks.
In general, whether to use an underlayment or not depends on the condition of the concrete subfloor and personal preference. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions for the vinyl plank flooring and consult with a professional if necessary.
Can I use a self-leveling compound as an underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
Yes, you can use a self-leveling compound as an underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete. Self-leveling compounds are designed to create a smooth and level surface on top of uneven concrete or other subfloors. They can help to ensure that your vinyl plank flooring is installed on a level and stable surface, which is important for the durability and longevity of the flooring.
Before applying the self-leveling compound, it is important to properly prepare the concrete subfloor by cleaning it thoroughly and filling any cracks or holes. You should also ensure that the subfloor is completely dry before applying the self-leveling compound.
When choosing a self-leveling compound, be sure to select a product that is compatible with vinyl plank flooring and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. It is also recommended to consult with a flooring professional or manufacturer for specific recommendations on underlayment and installation for your particular vinyl plank flooring product.
How do I choose the right underlayment for my vinyl plank flooring installation on concrete?
Choosing the right underlayment for your vinyl plank flooring installation on concrete is crucial to ensure the longevity and durability of your new floors. The first thing you need to consider is the type of vinyl plank flooring you have. Some types of vinyl plank flooring come with an attached underlayment, while others require an additional underlayment to be installed.
Next, you need to consider the condition of your concrete subfloor. If your concrete subfloor is uneven, you may need to choose an underlayment that can level out the surface. Additionally, if you live in a humid area, you may want to choose an underlayment with a moisture barrier to prevent any moisture from seeping through and damaging your vinyl planks.
Another important factor to consider is the thickness of the underlayment. Thicker underlayment can provide more cushioning and soundproofing, but it can also affect the height of your floors and may require adjustments to your baseboards and door frames.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right underlayment for your vinyl plank flooring installation is to consult with a flooring professional or the manufacturer of your vinyl planks. They can provide expert advice on the best underlayment for your specific situation and ensure a successful installation.
How thick should the underlayment be for vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
The thickness of the underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete depends on the condition of the concrete subfloor. If the concrete subfloor is smooth and even, a thin underlayment of around 1/8 inch thick can be used to provide a cushioning layer and to help reduce noise. However, if the concrete subfloor is uneven or has cracks, a thicker underlayment of around 1/4 inch or more may be necessary to provide additional support and to prevent the vinyl planks from cracking or shifting.
It is important to choose an underlayment that is specifically designed for use with vinyl plank flooring on concrete to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the flooring. Additionally, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and use the recommended thickness of underlayment for optimal performance and durability of the vinyl plank flooring.
Is a moisture barrier necessary under vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
Yes, a moisture barrier is necessary under vinyl plank flooring on concrete. Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and easy installation. However, concrete is a porous material that can absorb moisture from the ground below, which can lead to problems with mold, mildew, and warping of the flooring.
Installing a moisture barrier is a simple and effective solution to prevent moisture from seeping up into the vinyl plank flooring. A moisture barrier is typically made of a thin layer of polyethylene or other moisture-resistant material that is placed over the concrete subfloor before the flooring is installed. This barrier acts as a barrier to prevent moisture from penetrating the concrete and getting into the flooring.
In addition to preventing moisture damage, a moisture barrier can also help to improve the overall performance and lifespan of the vinyl plank flooring. By creating a stable and level surface, the moisture barrier can help to reduce wear and tear on the flooring, ensuring that it looks and performs its best for years to come.
Should I use a foam or cork underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
When it comes to installing vinyl plank flooring on concrete, choosing the right underlayment is crucial to ensure the longevity and stability of your floors. While there are several options available, foam and cork underlayment are the two most popular choices.
Foam underlayment is affordable and easy to install. It creates a barrier between the concrete and the vinyl plank flooring, providing a cushioned layer that helps to absorb sound and improve insulation. However, foam underlayment may not be the best choice for uneven concrete surfaces as it may create gaps and air pockets that can cause the vinyl planks to shift and move over time.
On the other hand, cork underlayment is a more expensive option, but it offers superior sound insulation and moisture resistance. It also has the added benefit of being eco-friendly and sustainable. Cork underlayment is a good choice for concrete floors that have slight imperfections as it can help to level out the surface and provide a more stable base for the vinyl planks.
Ultimately, the choice between foam and cork underlayment depends on your budget, the condition of your concrete floors, and your personal preferences. It's important to do your research and consult with a flooring professional to determine which option is best suited for your specific needs.
What is the best type of underlayment for vinyl plank flooring over concrete?
When it comes to choosing the best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring over concrete, there are a few options to consider. The most popular types of underlayment for vinyl plank flooring include cork, rubber, and foam.
Cork underlayment is a great option because it is eco-friendly, provides sound insulation, and is water-resistant. It also helps to level out any imperfections in the concrete subfloor.
Rubber underlayment is another good option because it is durable, provides excellent sound insulation, and is resistant to moisture. It also helps to prevent the vinyl plank flooring from shifting or sliding.
Foam underlayment is a popular choice because it is affordable, easy to install, and provides good sound insulation. It also helps to smooth out any small imperfections in the concrete subfloor.
Ultimately, the best type of underlayment for vinyl plank flooring over concrete will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as durability, sound insulation, and moisture resistance when making your decision.
What is the best underlayment for reducing sound transmission in vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
When it comes to reducing sound transmission in vinyl plank flooring on concrete, there are several underlayment options available in the market. However, the best one for this purpose is the cork underlayment. Cork has excellent sound-absorbing properties and is an eco-friendly option. It is a natural and renewable material that can effectively reduce the sound transmission between floors, making it an ideal choice for multi-story buildings or apartments.
Cork underlayment is also a great option for vinyl plank flooring as it can provide a cushioned feel underfoot, which can reduce impact noise and make the floor more comfortable to walk on. Additionally, cork underlayment is easy to install and can be used over concrete subfloors without any issues.
Overall, if you want to reduce sound transmission in your vinyl plank flooring, the cork underlayment is the way to go. It is a durable, eco-friendly, and effective option that can provide you with the sound insulation you need for a more peaceful and comfortable living space.
Will a high-quality underlayment increase the lifespan of my vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
Yes, a high-quality underlayment can increase the lifespan of your vinyl plank flooring on concrete. Underlayment is designed to provide cushioning, support, and stability to your flooring. A good quality underlayment acts as a barrier between the subfloor and your vinyl plank flooring, protecting it from moisture, sound, and temperature changes. It helps to reduce noise transmission, prevents mold and mildew growth, and improves thermal insulation. Moreover, it can also help to level the subfloor, providing a smooth surface for the vinyl plank flooring to lay on. With a good quality underlayment, you can expect your vinyl plank flooring to last longer, as it will be protected from the wear and tear of foot traffic, furniture, and other daily use. Therefore, it is highly recommended to invest in a high-quality underlayment to ensure the longevity of your vinyl plank flooring.
