When choosing luxury vinyl tile flooring, it's crucial to consider the underlayment that will support it. Underlayment provides essential benefits like sound reduction, moisture resistance, and added comfort. With several options available, each designed to meet specific needs, selecting the best underlayment can make a significant difference in performance and longevity. Here's a guide to finding the perfect underlayment for your luxury vinyl flooring.
Foam underlayment
Foam underlayment is a popular choice due to its versatility and affordability. It is lightweight, easy to install, and provides a smooth surface for your LVT flooring. Key benefits include:
- Sound absorption: Foam underlayment reduces noise, making it ideal for multi-story homes and offices.
- Cushioning effect: It adds a layer of cushioning for increased comfort underfoot.
- Moisture barrier: Some foam underlayments include an attached moisture barrier, which is helpful in areas prone to dampness.
Cork underlayment
Cork underlayment is a sustainable option known for its eco-friendly qualities. This natural material provides excellent sound absorption and thermal insulation. Its notable features include:
- Eco-friendly: Made from natural cork bark, it's a renewable and biodegradable material.
- Sound reduction: Cork effectively absorbs sound, reducing noise levels between floors.
- Durability: Resistant to mold and mildew, cork is an excellent choice for long-term use.
Felt underlayment
Felt underlayment is crafted from recycled fibers, providing a sturdy yet cushioned base for luxury vinyl tile flooring. Some key advantages are:
- Comfort and warmth: Felt creates a warm, comfortable surface underfoot, making it suitable for colder climates.
- Noise insulation: It provides good sound insulation, which is particularly effective in reducing impact noise.
- Stability: Felt offers stable support that minimizes movement in high-traffic areas.
Rubber underlayment
Rubber underlayment is a high-performance option that excels in noise reduction and durability. Though often used in gyms or commercial settings, it is also beneficial in homes. Its characteristics include:
- Superior sound insulation: Rubber significantly reduces both airborne and impact noise.
- Water resistance: It is water-resistant and ideal for moisture-prone areas.
- Longevity: The material is durable and can withstand heavy traffic and impacts.
Your experts on luxury vinyl flooring in Leesburg, FL
Selecting the best underlayment for your luxury vinyl tile flooring depends on your specific requirements, including sound reduction, comfort, moisture protection, and environmental impact. Foam underlayment offers versatility and affordability, cork appeals to eco-conscious consumers, and it provides warmth and stability, while rubber is a high-performance solution. Whichever option you choose, a well-suited underlayment will maximize your LVT flooring's comfort, durability, and performance, ensuring your flooring investment pays off in the long run.
Contact DCO Flooring for all your flooring needs. Our flooring store in Leesburg, FL, serves Leesburg, The Villages, Tavares, and Lady Lakes, FL.
