If you are installing luxury vinyl tile directly over a concrete floor, a waterproof underlayment is required. A chemical reaction can occur if water is allowed to pass through concrete. If you’re installing a vinyl floor in a basement or crawl space, you’ll want to make sure it’s waterproof.
This is especially important if the floor is going to be in contact with water for a long period of time, such as during a rainstorm or flood. You’ll also need to consider the type of flooring you plan to install. For example, vinyl floors are generally more durable than concrete floors, but they’re also more expensive.
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Can vinyl plank flooring be installed directly on concrete?
Yes, and that’s one of the questions we hear most often, about luxury vinyl plank. Most homes in Florida don’t have a basement because the concrete is slab-on-grade, meaning no basement floors are required. LVP is the most common type of concrete slab in the U.S., but it’s not the only one.
For example, you can use concrete that has been treated to make it more resistant to water and mold. You can also use a mixture of cement and cementitious materials, such as gypsum, to create a more durable slab. And, of course, if you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing home, it makes sense to use the best slab available.
What goes under vinyl flooring on concrete?
You may want to use an underlayment for three reasons if you are installing vinyl plank flooring over a concrete subfloor. To make the floor softer to walk on, it will give you some added cushion. An extra vapor barrier above the subfloor is something you may want to consider.
And third, if you plan to install a vinyl floor over an existing concrete floor, then you will need to make sure that the vinyl is properly installed over the concrete.
What is the best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
It’s a good idea to pick an option that provides heat insulation and humidity regulation when choosing an underlayment for vinyl plank flooring. Wood subfloors do an excellent job of regulating temperatures, but they don’t absorb sound, so a felt underlayment makes a lot of sense.
If you’re looking for a floor that’s easy to clean, you’ll want to choose a vinyl subfloor that can be wiped down with a damp cloth. You can also use a carpet cleaner to get rid of any dirt and grime that may have built up on the floor.
What is the best vapor barrier for vinyl plank flooring on concrete?
The cork underlayment is a great choice for luxury vinyl plank and tiles. It is available in both cork-only rolls and cork with an attached vapor barrier. You can choose between thinner half-pound cork and more expensive full-size rolls. Cork can also be used as an insulating layer between the concrete and the plywood.
Cordura is the most durable and flexible material available for vinyl flooring. The material has a high tensile strength and is resistant to abrasion, rot, and water damage. You can choose from a wide variety of colors and patterns. Corduroy is also a good choice if you want to add a bit of texture to your floor.
