Underlay is a common question with vinyl planks. The right answer depends on the product and the subfloor.
When underlay helps
- Acoustic requirements in apartments and offices
- Added comfort and warmth underfoot
- Minor smoothing over sound subfloors (floating floors)
When to avoid it
Glue-down vinyl bonds directly to the subfloor and generally shouldn't have separate underlay. Many rigid-core planks also have attached underlay — adding more can cause instability.
Follow the product
Always match underlay to the manufacturer's guidance. The wrong underlay can void warranties and make a floor feel spongy or unstable.
AB Flooring specifies the correct underlay — or none — for your product and subfloor. Ask us during your quote.
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