Introduction: The Importance of Underlay with Click LVT
Click Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) have gained immense popularity in recent years, lauded for their durability, affordability and aesthetic appeal. As home and business owners flock to embrace this resilient flooring option – a common question has arisen: Do you need underlay with click LVT? In this article, we delve into the reasons why underlay is crucial when installing luxury vinyl tiles.
5 Reasons to Install Underlay with Click LVT
1. Subfloor imperfections: Underlay serves as a buffer between the LVT and the subfloor, ensuring a smooth and level surface. Subfloor imperfections, such as bumps, cracks or unevenness, can compromise the integrity of the LVT leading to cracking or movement in the long run. Underlay provides a stable foundation which prevents this from happening prolonging the lifespan of your luxury vinyl tiles.
2. Soundproofing: On its own, LVT has the ability to reduce sound transmission compared to traditional hard flooring options. However, the addition of underlay further enhances this acoustic property. This is particularly import if you live or work in a multi-storey property. Underlay acts as a sound barrier, absorbing impact noise and minimizing echoes, creating a quieter and more comfortable living and working environment.
3. Comfort: Again, on its own LVT is more comfortable underfoot than stone tiles for example. However, underlay adds an extra layer of cushioning and insulation making your floor feel softer underfoot. This additional comfort underfoot is particularly beneficial in areas where people spend a significant amount of time standing, such as kitchens or offices.
4. Moisture protection: Once again, by themselves LVTs are moisture resistant thanks to their PVC core. However, underlay provides an additional layer of protection against dampness that may arise from the subfloor. Moisture can lead to mould and mildew growth, compromising the structural integrity of the flooring. Underlay with moisture-resistant properties acts as a safeguard, preserving the longevity of your LVT and preventing warping and buckling. This is vital in rooms prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
5. Thermal properties: Underlay aids in temperature regulation by acting as a thermal barrier. Installing an underlay with good thermal properties can provide an extra layer of insulation, making your LVT feel warmer underfoot, this is especially useful in colder climates such as the United Kingdom. This is vital in rooms where temperature fluctuations are common, such as bathrooms and kitchen, as it helps maintain a more consistent and comfortable indoor climate. Furthermore, underlay prevents cold transfer from the subfloor, enhancing the overall warmth of any space.
Could I Skip Underlay?
Whilst it is not recommended, there are a few exceptions where you could skip on installing underlay with click LVTs if you wanted to save some money:
1. LVT with built-in underlay: If your LVT already offers built in underlay, then you do not need to purchase and lay extra underlay.
2. Thicker LVT (5mm or above): Thicker LVT already provides a sufficient amount comfort and stability, making underlay optional.
3. Perfect subfloor: If your subfloor is perfectly level, dry and free of imperfections, underlay might not be necessary for functionality. But remember you will not get any of the acoustic or thermal properties that underlay offers if you skip it, so bear that in mind.
What to Consider When Choosing Underlay?
At Flooring Hut, we recommend installing underlay with your click luxury vinyl tiles to enhance the floor’s qualities and prolong its life. When selecting which underlay to use, consider the following options:
• Material: Cork, foam and recycled rubber are popular options, each offering unique benefits in terms of comfort, soundproofing and moisture resistance.
• Thickness: Consider the thickness of your Click LVT and the desired level of comfort and soundproofing when choosing underlay thickness.
• Moisture barrier: If moisture is a concern (kitchens and bathrooms), opt for an underlay with a built-in moisture barrier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while luxury vinyl tiles offer numerous benefits on their own, the inclusion of underlay serves to enhance these qualities, such as sound absorption, adding comfort underfoot, protecting against moisture, and regulating temperature. At Flooring Hut, we believe that investing in high-quality underlay ensures that your click LVT flooring not only looks stunning but also performs at its best for years to come. If in doubt, you can consult your LVT installation instructions or a professional floor fitter about whether or not you need underlay with your luxury vinyl click flooring.
