Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring, an increasingly popular choice for homes and even commercial spaces in the UK, blends style with practicality. We often get asked the question, “do you need underlay with LVTs?”
At the outset, it’s crucial to understand what LVT flooring is. LVT is a high-quality vinyl flooring product that replicates the look of natural materials such as wood and stone, but with added durability and ease of maintenance. It’s a versatile flooring option, suitable for various settings, owing to its robustness and aesthetic appeal.
The question of whether an underlay is required for LVT flooring hinges on several factors, including the type of LVT and the nature of the subfloor. Generally, LVT comes in two forms: glue-down and click-together. For glue-down types, an underlay isn’t typically necessary as the tiles adhere directly to the subfloor. Conversely, for click-together LVT, an underlay could be beneficial, though it’s not a necessity either.
An underlay serves multiple purposes. It can provide extra insulation, improving the thermal efficiency of a room – a significant benefit given the UK’s varied climate. It also offers soundproofing qualities, reducing noise transmission between floors – a boon in multi-storey homes or apartments. Moreover, an underlay can smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor, ensuring a more even and stable surface for the LVT.
However, it’s not always a clear-cut decision. For instance, if the subfloor is already smooth and level, the additional layer of underlay might not be necessary. It’s also worth noting that using an underlay with a glue-down LVT can invalidate the warranty in some cases, so it’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
LVT’s compatibility with underfloor heating systems adds to its allure. If you have such a system, selecting the right underlay that doesn’t hinder the heat transfer is critical. Some specialised underlays are designed to work efficiently with underfloor heating, ensuring that the warmth is effectively distributed across the room.
If you’re considering installing LVT and wondering if you need an underlay, get in touch with the team at Frankly Flooring who can assist with professional guidance as qualified fitters, ensuring your flooring choices meet both your aesthetic and practical requirements.