Do I Need Underlayment for Vinyl Flooring on Plywood: Everything You Need to Know

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Do I need underlayment for vinyl flooring on plywood? Yes, you need underlayment for vinyl flooring on plywood. However, there are several factors to consider when determining whether or not you will need an underlayment. In this blog post, we will talk about the five most important ones.

You need underlayment for vinyl flooring on plywood if your subfloor is not level or smooth. There are different types of underlayment available, so be sure to choose one that is compatible with the adhesive you are using.

Factors to Consider Before Underlaying Vinyl Flooring on Plywood

Noise Reduction – Although vinyl flooring is available in a wide array of styles and colors, one thing that they all have in common is the ability to reduce noise. This makes them ideal for any room where sound dampening may be desired due to high traffic or loud appliances such as washers and dryers. If you plan to install vinyl in a room where noise reduction is needed, an underlayment will be required.
Water Resistance – Although most modern vinyl flooring is highly resistant to water damage when properly cared for, it’s still important to make sure that you use products designed specifically for the task. If you are installing vinyl over plywood and plan on having any water exposure within the room, you will need to use an underlayment designed for this purpose.
Floor Temperature – Vinyl flooring is available in a wide variety of styles and colors, but this isn’t the only thing that varies. Some vinyl tiles are designed to be used on floors with temperatures below freezing while others can handle heat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit without being damaged. If you plan on installing vinyl over plywood within your home, you will need to ensure that you use a tile designed for your area.

Vapor Resistance – As with water resistance, vapor resistance is important if there is any chance of moisture exposure in the room. If this could be even remotely an issue and you plan on installing vinyl over plywood within the space, it’s advisable to choose a product with vapor resistance.
Material – Some vinyl flooring products are not recommended for installation over plywood due to their material composition. Vinyl tiles and sheet goods usually do not require a separate layer of protection because most have a protective finish on both sides that can withstand moisture.

Types of Subfloor Material

Concrete subfloor
Plywood subfloor
Laminate subfloor

Linoleum
Ceramic tile

Subfloor Considerations Needed For Vinyl Flooring Underlayment on Plywood

In good condition

Free of damages
Should be smooth
Clean & debris free

Importance of Underlaying Vinyl Flooring on Plywood

Prevents moisture damage to a plywood subfloor
Protects Plywood Subfloors from foot traffic and indentation caused by furniture
Improves durability of vinyl flooring installation.

Increases the life span of the new Vinyl Floor Installation.

Steps For Installing Vinyl Underlayment Over Plywood Subfloor.

Vacuum the plywood subfloor
Make sure it is clean and free of debris.

Apply an even coat of adhesive to plywood with a notched trowel in 12″ x 15″ sections, overlapping joints by at least half the width of the notch when applying underlayment tape or vinyl planks over existing flooring.
Starting in the center of a room, unroll the underlayment and cut to fit with a sharp utility knife or scissors. When installing multiple rooms at once, make sure to stagger seams between rooms by six feet or more for proper ventilation.
Lay additional rows of adhesive every three feet along edges over subfloor joints; press seams together and cover seams with a heavy coat of adhesive.

Weigh down the new vinyl flooring with a heavy object and allow the adhesive to cure for at least six hours; remove any weights and tape up seams using an approved seam sealer.

After 24 hours, you can proceed to install your new vinyl flooring.

Vinyl Floor Underlayment Materials

Foam underlayments – the flexible type made of polyethylene foam with paper backing that is used for both floating and glued installation over existing subfloors including plywood. When using the adhesive method will also provide increased noise reduction.

Rubber underlayments – the flexible type made of rubber with paper backing that is used for both floating and glued installation over existing subfloors including plywood. When using the adhesive method will also provide increased noise reduction.
Carpet underlayment – usually consists of a layer of felt-like material – can be used for both floating and glued installation over existing subfloors including plywood.
Cementitious underlayment – is suggested when moisture resistance is needed or if the substrate has minor surface contaminants such as grease, oil, or wax which could damage foam products. Cementitious underlayments are not compatible with all types of adhesives and in some cases, a primer may be required.

Vinyl Underlayment Types

There are different types of plywood subflooring available in the market which is used for vinyl floor installation. Some important types include;

Plywood Type
Moisture Content (MC)

Density (lbs/ft^(I))
OSB board sheathing grade
Exposure rating

Face and back (F&B) grade
Center cut (CC) grade.

FAQs

Can I install vinyl plank flooring over plywood?

Vinyl plank flooring can be installed over plywood, OSB, or concrete subfloors. If you are installing over a wood subfloor, make sure that the subfloor is dry, level, and flat before installation. You may need to install an underlayment if your subfloor is not level or smooth.

How do I prepare my plywood subfloor for vinyl plank flooring?

To prepare your plywood subfloor for vinyl plank flooring, you will need to make sure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and flat. You may also need to install an underlayment if your subfloor is not level or smooth.

Can I install vinyl plank flooring over an existing floor?

Yes, you can install vinyl plank flooring over an existing floor, but you will need to make sure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and flat before installation. You may also need to install an underlayment if your subfloor is not level or smooth.

What is the best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring?

The best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring is a foam underlayment with a paper backing. Foam underlayments are flexible and can be used for both floating and glued installations. Rubber underlayments are also a good option for vinyl plank flooring.

What is the best way to clean vinyl plank flooring?

The best way to clean vinyl plank flooring is to sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dirt and debris. You can also mop the floor with a mild detergent or soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbers on vinyl plank flooring.

Is vinyl plank flooring waterproof?

Yes, vinyl plank flooring is waterproof and can be used in wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. However, it is important to note that vinyl plank flooring is not scratch-resistant and can be damaged by sharp objects.

Can I install vinyl plank flooring over tile?

Yes, you can install vinyl plank flooring over tile, but you will need to make sure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and flat before installation. You may also need to install an underlayment if your subfloor is not level or smooth.

Conclusion

Vinyl flooring is a great option for any home. It is durable, easy to clean, and has a wide range of designs to choose from. When installing vinyl flooring, it is important to make sure that the subfloor is in good condition and free of debris. It is also important to use an underlayment to protect the subfloor from moisture damage and to increase the lifespan of the vinyl flooring. There are different types of underlayment available, so be sure to choose one that is compatible with the adhesive you are using. With proper installation, your new vinyl floor will last for years to come.