Installing luxury vinyl plank flooring is an excellent choice for a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance floor. But did you know that choosing the right underlayment can significantly enhance your luxury vinyl's performance, comfort, and longevity? Let's dive into the world of underlayments and find the perfect match for your new floor.
Why underlayment matters
While not always mandatory, underlayment provides a variety of benefits for luxury vinyl flooring installations:
- Moisture barrier: Protects your LVP flooring from moisture damage, which is especially important in areas prone to spills or humidity.
- Sound reduction: Reduces noise transmission, making your floor quieter for you and your downstairs neighbors.
- Comfort: Adds a layer of cushioning, making the floor softer underfoot.
- Thermal insulation: Helps to regulate temperature, keeping your floors warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
- Subfloor imperfection correction: Smoothes out minor irregularities in the subfloor.
Types of underlayment
There are several types of underlayment suitable for luxury vinyl plank flooring, each with its own pros and cons:
- Foam: Affordable, good for sound reduction, but less durable than other options.
- Cork: Natural, eco-friendly, excellent sound and thermal insulator, but more expensive.
- Felt: Recycled material, it offers sound reduction and cushioning but not as good a moisture barrier as others.
- Rubber: Superior sound reduction and durability, but can be pricier.
Choosing the right underlayment for your needs
Consider these factors when selecting your underlayment:
- Room location: Choose underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier for moisture-prone areas like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Noise concerns: If sound reduction is a priority, look for underlayment with high acoustic ratings (STC and IIC).
- Comfort: For a softer feel underfoot, opt for thicker underlayment or materials like cork or rubber.
- Budget: Underlayment costs vary, so choose one that fits your budget without sacrificing quality.
Installation tips
Proper luxury vinyl flooring installation is crucial for maximizing the benefits of underlayment. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and ensure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level before installation.
Consult with the experts
If you're unsure which underlayment is right for your specific needs, don't hesitate to consult with our flooring experts at Wholesale Flooring & Granite. We can help you choose the perfect underlayment to complement your new LVP flooring and ensure a beautiful, comfortable, and long-lasting result.
With the right underlayment, your luxury vinyl plank flooring will not only look stunning but also feel great underfoot. Our showroom in Baton Rouge, LA, serves Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Ascension Parish, Baker, and surrounding areas.
