Do You Have To Put Padding Under Vinyl Flooring

Do You Have To Put Padding Under Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for many homes and businesses because it is durable, easy to clean, and relatively inexpensive. However, one question that often arises is whether or not you need to put padding under vinyl flooring.

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the type of vinyl flooring you are installing, the subfloor you are installing it on, and your personal preferences.

Type of Vinyl Flooring

There are two main types of vinyl flooring: sheet vinyl and luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Sheet vinyl is a single sheet of vinyl that is glued to the subfloor. LVT is made up of individual tiles that are clicked or glued together. LVT is generally thicker than sheet vinyl and has a more realistic look and feel.

If you are installing sheet vinyl, you generally do not need to put padding underneath it. However, if you are installing LVT, you may want to consider using padding. Padding can help to reduce the noise of footsteps and make the floor more comfortable to walk on.

Subfloor

The type of subfloor you are installing vinyl flooring on can also affect whether or not you need padding. If you are installing vinyl flooring on a concrete subfloor, you will generally not need padding. However, if you are installing vinyl flooring on a wood subfloor, you may want to consider using padding. Padding can help to smooth out any irregularities in the subfloor and make the floor more comfortable to walk on.

Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to put padding under vinyl flooring is a personal one. If you are not sure whether or not you need padding, it is always a good idea to consult with a professional flooring installer.

Here are some of the benefits of using padding under vinyl flooring:

Reduces noise
Makes the floor more comfortable to walk on
Can help to smooth out irregularities in the subfloor
Can extend the life of the vinyl flooring

Here are some of the drawbacks of using padding under vinyl flooring:

Can increase the cost of the installation
Can make the floor more difficult to clean
Can trap moisture

If you are considering using padding under vinyl flooring, be sure to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully. Consult with a professional flooring installer to get their opinion and to find the best padding for your specific needs.