Does vinyl flooring need underlay?

Underlay is almost always necessary. We're often asked by our customers:

Do you need underlay for carpet? Definitely, is our answer.

Do you need underlay for laminate? 100%.

Do you need underlay for hardwood flooring? Absolutely.

In fact, as a leading online supplier, we live by the motto that underlay shouldn't ever be regarded as an ‘optional extra'. It's an essential purchase. Something that, nine times out of ten, you will need to buy when updating your flooring. However, there is one exception to this unwritten rule.

Do you need an underlay for vinyl and LVT flooring? Perhaps surprisingly, the answer to this one is no. Underlay when laying vinyl flooring isn't usually required. Let us explain why.

 

Vinyl – the only flooring type that doesn't require underlay

Providing the surface you're laying it on is smooth and clean, sheet vinyl (aka linoleum or lino) should be perfectly fine on its own. No need for an accompanying vinyl underlay. There are three key reasons for this:

 

It has a cushioned base layer

Long gone are the days of cheap, thin lino rolls that provide zero support or protection.

Now, thanks to huge advances in technology, modern vinyl flooring is made to an exceptional standard – manufactured from the highest quality materials and fitted with a thick, cushioned base.

This is essentially what makes lino underlay unnecessary. Due to its in-built cushioning, most vinyl floors are capable of providing sufficient levels of thermal and sound insulation all on their own. Plus, a well-cushioned vinyl floor is already very soft and can significantly enhance comfort underfoot – therefore negating the need for an additional layer.

 

It's inherently durable

One of the main benefits of underlay is that it can improve the longevity of your flooring. It successfully protects against the effects of day-to-day wear and tear in high-traffic areas, such as footfall and other impacts. And as such, it can help to extend its overall lifespan by up to 50% in some cases!

However, with lino, this extra protection isn't necessary.

Linoleum is an inherently durable and extremely hard-wearing material. Providing that it's properly maintained, it can last for 20-40 years – even if laid in the busiest areas of your home.

 

 

It's designed for direct installation

Sheet vinyl is specifically designed to be fitted directly onto both concrete and wooden floorboards.

Yes – to ensure the best results – it's important to ensure the surface is as smooth, level, and clear of debris as possible. But thanks to its cushioning, a single sheet of vinyl can usually be rolled out across the subfloor and quickly glued into place, without the need for an additional layer.

Vinyl is also water-resistant; a benefit you won't find in other flooring options, such as hardwood and laminate flooring. Which means it isn't as susceptible to the effects of dampness in the subfloor, and underlay isn't typically required to provide moisture protection.

 

Sheet vinyl and luxury vinyl tiles – two different stories

The rule on underlay is different for these two very similar yet distinct products.

Unlike sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl tiles are laid as a ‘floating floor'. Therefore, they often require an extra layer of protection – between the tiles and subfloor – to help prevent any post-installation issues.

Some vinyl tiles also come with an in-built layer of cushioning (just like lino), but others don't. And for those without cushioning, LVT underlay can be a worthwhile investment. This will:

• Ensure a stable surface, preventing any unwanted movement or separation

• Create a damp-proof membrane and moisture barrier

• Introduce additional thermal insulation

• Absorb impact and airborne sounds and reduce noise

• Enhance cushioning underfoot

 

The luxury vinyl flooring range at Carpet Underlay Shop

Ready to get started? Here at Carpet Underlay Shop, we have everything you need.

A new range of Grandismo vinyl was recently added to our flooring collection.

 

 

All styles in this range are suitable for fitting without sheet vinyl underlay. Thanks to its superior quality and easy installation, it's a fantastic choice for DIY home projects – particularly the bathroom, kitchen, and rooms that experience a high level of daily foot traffic.

Various widths and lengths are available to suit your requirements. We have a diverse selection of designs to choose from, including everything from oak parquet and herringbone patterns to bold geometric and classic slate tiles – all of which mimic the look of the real thing.

No matter which style you choose, the price is the same. Coupled with the fact that no underlay is required, this makes it an affordable and cost-effective option for homeowners on a budget.

 

 

We also stock Royale LVT Click Flooring in a variety of colourways and styles. As a specialist in underlay, of course, we have a selection of high-quality LVT underlays available too.

Our recommendation is Royale LVT Vinyl Underlay.

Made from impact-resistant toughened foam – with a silver foam backing and high-density construction – this offers a range of fantastic benefits. For example, it can reduce noise by up to 28dB. It provides excellent thermal insulation and will successfully protect against moisture.

This is by far the best underlay for vinyl flooring – notably improving its final look and feel, whilst offering superb value for money.

 

 

Got a question about vinyl or lino?

We're always happy to help.

Still not sure whether you need underlayment for your vinyl sheet flooring? Can't decide between sheet vinyl or luxury vinyl tiles? Need advice on the best products for your needs? Whatever it is, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

← Previous Post Next Post →