There are many different underlayment options available to you for your vinyl planks. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right one:
• If you’re going with laid-down vinyl floors or smaller tiles that don’t require grout lines, you should use a cork or rubber foam product. Cork is made from natural materials and will provide noise reduction qualities but not cushioning. Rubber foam (also known as EPDM rubber) will provide better sound insulation and cushioning.
• If you choose a laid-down vinyl floor that has grout lines, it’s best to use EPDM on top of the subfloor. This is a closed-cell polyethylene foam that provides noise reduction qualities and cushioning to reduce sound transfer.
• If you choose vinyl tiles, EPDM should be placed on top of your subfloor for optimal results. It will help reduce noise levels while also providing additional cushioning.
• It’s also important to use a vapor barrier when laying your vinyl planks so that moisture doesn’t reach the subfloor and cause damage or even mold growth over time.
• When installing underlayment for any type of vinyl plank floor installation, it’s best to begin by covering the EPDM with the vapor barrier (plastic sheet) and then lay ceramic tiles on top of this layer according to manufacturer instructions.
• Finally, install vinyl planks directly onto these layers using grout lines as a guide for your seams if needed. Finish by installing trim around the perimeter of your room.