When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Underlayment For Vinyl Flooring On Concrete (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a new flooring option, you may have come across vinyl flooring as a cost-effective and durable solution. But, have you considered the importance of underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete? Before diving into a purchase, it’s crucial to understand the significance of underlayment and what you should consider when selecting it for your vinyl flooring installation.

When installing vinyl flooring on concrete, underlayment serves as a barrier between the subfloor and the vinyl, providing insulation, moisture protection, and sound reduction. When selecting underlayment, ensure that it is suitable for concrete surfaces, as not all types of underlayment work well on this base. Additionally, consider factors like thickness, density, and material quality to ensure the most reliable and long-lasting installation.

Are you concerned about cracks and other potential damages on your concrete subfloor? Do you want to enjoy a comfortable, noise-free walking surface? In that case, investing in the right underlayment for your vinyl flooring installation is critical. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of high-quality underlayment, how to choose the right one, and how to install it correctly for a seamless and lasting result.

10 Best Underlayment For Vinyl Flooring On Concrete

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for using as an underlayment for luxury vinyl flooring, providing sound reduction and moisture protection.
2
The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring installations.
3
This product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring, including laminate, vinyl, WPC, SPC, bamboo, engineered, and solid hardwood.
4
Ideal for reducing noise, moisture protection, and creating a smooth surface for laminate or engineered hardwood flooring.
5
This product is ideal for preventing slipping and sliding of rugs on vinyl or luxury vinyl plank flooring.
6
This product is ideal for providing underlayment and moisture barrier for flooring installations.
7
This underlayment is ideal for use with laminate, vinyl, WPC, SPC, bamboo, engineered, and solid hardwood flooring.
8
Ideal for providing protective cushioning for all types of floors and finishes, including hardwoods, for an 8'x10' area.
9
The product is ideal for preventing rugs from slipping on hard surface floors.
10
The product is ideal for preventing rugs from slipping on hard surface floors.
It is ideal for using as an underlayment for luxury vinyl flooring, providing sound reduction and moisture protection.
The product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring installations.
This product is ideal for use as an underlayment for various types of flooring, including laminate, vinyl, WPC, SPC, bamboo, engineered, and solid hardwood.
Ideal for reducing noise, moisture protection, and creating a smooth surface for laminate or engineered hardwood flooring.
This product is ideal for preventing slipping and sliding of rugs on vinyl or luxury vinyl plank flooring.
This product is ideal for providing underlayment and moisture barrier for flooring installations.
This underlayment is ideal for use with laminate, vinyl, WPC, SPC, bamboo, engineered, and solid hardwood flooring.
Ideal for providing protective cushioning for all types of floors and finishes, including hardwoods, for an 8'x10' area.
The product is ideal for preventing rugs from slipping on hard surface floors.
The product is ideal for preventing rugs from slipping on hard surface floors.

1. 360 Sq Ft Acoustical Underlayment With Vapor Barrier For Luxury Vinyl Flooring

This flooring underlayment is a perfect fit for luxury floating and glue-down floors. It is designed to provide the best support for your floors and enhance their performance. With a coverage of 360 square feet, this underlayment is ideal for large areas.

Experience superior acoustical sound reflection with this underlayment. It is designed to absorb sound and reduce traveling to other rooms, providing you with a peaceful living space. The underlayment's sound reducing feature makes it an excellent choice for apartments and multi-story homes.

This underlayment is heat compatible and comes with built-in thermal insulation. It is designed to work seamlessly with the QuietWarmth heating flooring system, providing you with a comfortable living space. The thermal insulation feature also helps reduce your heating bills.

The underlayment is made of Dri-Wick moisture-resistant material, providing utmost protection against moisture. This feature helps protect your floors from moisture damage and keeps them looking new for years. The moisture-resistant feature also makes it suitable for installation in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

This underlayment is environmentally friendly and made of recycled materials. It is a high-performing product that also helps you reduce your carbon footprint. By choosing this underlayment, you are contributing to the sustainability of our planet.

Pros

  • Ideal fit for luxury floating and glue-down floors
  • Superior acoustical sound reflection
  • Built-in thermal insulation for compatibility with QuietWarmth heating flooring system
  • Dri-Wick moisture-resistant material for utmost protection
  • Environmentally friendly and made of recycled materials

2. First Step 630-Square Foot Roll Underlayment

The First Step Premium 3-in-1 Underlayment, 100 sq. ft. Roll is a high-quality underlayment specifically designed for use with floating laminate and engineered wood flooring. This product is ideal for use on concrete slabs and wood subfloors that are on or above grade. The underlayment is easy to install and can help reduce sound transmission, increase comfort and even out minor sub-floor imperfections. The roll measures 40 in. x 189 ft., providing 630 sq. ft. of coverage, and includes an adhesive strip and a 4 in. overlap film, making it easy to link multiple rolls together. With a Sound Transmission Lost Test (STC) rating of 67 and Impact Sound Transmission Test (IIC) rating of 68, this underlayment offers excellent soundproofing capabilities. Additionally, it has an R-Value of .40, which makes it an energy-efficient choice for any home.

Upgrade your flooring installation with the First Step Premium 3-in-1 Underlayment. This product is durable, easy to install, and provides exceptional soundproofing and energy efficiency. Whether you're a professional installer or a DIY enthusiast, the First Step Premium 3-in-1 Underlayment is a great choice for your next project.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Reduces sound transmission
  • Increases comfort
  • Levels minor sub-floor corrections
  • Comes with adhesive strip and overlap film for easy linking of multiple rolls
  • High STC and IIC ratings for excellent soundproofing
  • Energy efficient with R-Value of .40

3. Protech Advanced Foam Underlayment: Your Flooring Solution!

Enjoy a peaceful and comfortable flooring experience with this premium product. It offers excellent acoustic performance, keeping the noise level to a minimum. Additionally, it provides advanced thermal insulation that keeps your feet warm during winter and comfortable during summer. Its premium vapor barrier offers superior water and moisture protection, ensuring your subfloor remains dry and safe from mold and mildew.

With a stronger cell wall and premium cell design, this product has a long-lasting and durable structure that can withstand heavy foot traffic. It also offers better sound dampening, making it a perfect choice for homes with multiple floors or for those who enjoy listening to music. The self-sealing Lip N Tape system with pre-attached tape (end to end) and 3" overlap makes installation easy and hassle-free. Measuring 3 mm overall thickness and covering 400 sq.ft. per package, this product is an excellent choice for larger areas.

Upgrade your home with this premium product, and enjoy a comfortable and quiet flooring experience for years to come.

Pros

  • Advanced thermal insulation keeps feet warm in winter and comfortable in summer
  • Premium vapor barrier provides better water and moisture protection
  • Stronger cell wall and premium cell design for a long-lasting and durable structure
  • Better sound dampening
  • Self-sealing Lip N Tape system with pre-attached tape (end to end) and 3" overlap makes installation easy
  • Covers 400 sq.ft. per package, making it an excellent choice for larger areas

4. Floormuffler Ultra Seal Underlayment 300sf

This high-quality underlayment provides superior acoustic protection for your floors by reducing sound transmission and impact noise. The product is designed to provide an enhanced level of comfort and insulation, allowing you to enjoy a quieter and more comfortable living space.

In addition to its acoustic benefits, this underlayment also provides excellent moisture control, making it a perfect choice for use in areas with high humidity levels. It helps to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can cause damage to your floors and subfloor over time.

This underlayment is designed for use under laminate, engineered and solid hardwood floors. It is easy to install and comes in a contractor size roll, making it ideal for larger projects or professional installations.

Overall, this underlayment is an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality acoustic protection and moisture control for their floors. Its contractor size roll makes it a great value for larger projects, while its versatile design makes it suitable for use with a variety of flooring types.

Pros

  • Provides superior acoustic protection
  • Offers excellent moisture control
  • Suitable for use under laminate, engineered and solid hardwood floors
  • Easy to install
  • Comes in a contractor size roll for larger projects

5. Vinyl Lock Non-Slip Rug Pad.

The Vinyl Lock rug pad is an excellent solution to keep your rugs in place and prevent slipping. This pad is made of felt and EVA, which is specially formulated not to stain or discolor your vinyl or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring. It features ribbed EVA backing that grips your floors to prevent bunching, shifting, and sliding. The recycled felt backing holds tight to the underside of your rug to keep the surface flat, which minimizes tripping. The low profile of this pad makes it perfect for high-traffic areas, including entryways and hallways. This pad prevents sliding, bunching, and wrinkling in rugs without interfering with door clearance. Moreover, the solid EVA backing of this pad prevents liquids from reaching your floors, making it an ideal choice for protecting them from spills and household accidents. Vinyl Lock is safe for use on any surface and guaranteed not to stain or mark your floors. Lastly, this pad is proudly manufactured in the USA, like all RugPadUSA products.

Pros

  • Prevents bunching, shifting, and sliding of rugs
  • Low profile design is perfect for high-traffic areas
  • Solid EVA backing prevents liquids from reaching your floors
  • Safe for use on any surface and guaranteed not to stain or mark your floors
  • Made in the USA

6. Quietwalk Plus Qw360plus All Flooring Underlayment With Attached Vapor Barrier, Blue, 6' X 30'

This underlayment is perfect for use with laminate, floating engineered, nail down and glue-down flooring. It offers superior sound reduction as its dense recycled fiber structure absorbs sound and prevents it from traveling to other rooms. This makes click-together floating floors sound solid underfoot. The underlayment is compression resistant and will uphold its supportive configuration under the consistent traffic of the overlying floor. It also offers moisture protection as recycled fibers allow installation over concrete to 'breathe', managing vapors from becoming bulk moisture. The attached vapor barrier further protects the overlying floors from harmful moisture. Moreover, this underlayment is certified clean and safe for indoor air quality as it does not contain any Volatile Organic Compounds or off-gassing materials. It is also approved for in-floor radiant heat systems as it allows heat to permeate evenly while protecting the floor covering material from thermal shock. Achieve warmth with the Quiet Warmth Radiant Heat System. Lastly, this underlayment is easy to install as it can be rolled out and joined at the seam. It can be installed over wood or concrete subfloors and covers 360 sq. ft. per roll.

Pros

  • Offers superior sound reduction and compression resistance
  • Provides moisture protection with a vapor barrier
  • Certified clean and safe for indoor air quality
  • Approved for in-floor radiant heat systems
  • Easy to install and covers 360 sq. ft. per roll

7. Safefloor Felt Pad For Hardwoods – 8'x10'

Looking for a rug pad that can provide extra cushioning while protecting your floors? Look no further than this 100% felt pad! With its ultra-plush feel, it offers a thick buffer between your rugs and floors for luxurious comfort. The pad contains 40oz of felt per square yard, which makes it denser and heavier than most rug pads available in the market.

This rug pad is perfect for use with rugs anchored by furniture or heavy rugs that stay in place on their own. It is not designed for non-slip applications, but you can try one of the company's felt and rubber options for that purpose. The pad's extra thickness provides sound absorption and insulation benefits, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maximize cushioning.

If you're worried about furniture on larger rugs causing abrasion to floors over time, this pad can help. It will not mark or stain floor finishes, ensuring your floors are protected from damage. The pad is also eco-friendly, as it is made in the USA and contains no glues, PVC, or latex.

The pad is available in thicknesses of 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4". So, you can choose the one that best suits your needs. If you want extra cushioning, go for the 1/2" option. However, if you want less cushioning, try the 3/8" or 1/4" options.

Pros

  • Provides extra cushioning and floor protection under your rugs for luxurious comfort
  • Denser and heavier than most rug pads available in the market
  • Will not mark or stain floor finishes, ensuring your floors are protected from damage
  • Eco-friendly, made in the USA, and contains no glues, PVC, or latex
  • Available in thicknesses of 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4"

Cons

  • – Not suitable for non-slip applications

8. Festicorp's Non Slip Rug Gripper

Are you tired of your rug moving around every time you walk on it? Look no further because this non-slip rug pad is here to help. This rug pad is designed to hold your rug in place so it won't slide or bunch up during everyday use. Not only that, but it also provides additional thickness and cushion for your rug, making it more comfortable to walk on. The premium PVC material is completely non-toxic and safe for your health. The open grid weave technology allows continuous air flow and circulation under your rug, making it easier to vacuum.

This versatile area rug pad is perfect for use on hardwood, laminate, concrete, tile, marble, and more. It's also suitable for futons, couch cushions, mattresses, sofa covers, and for shelf and drawer protection. The anti-slip rug pad measures 8' x 10' which can easily be trimmed with household scissors to fit any custom size or shape. Ideally, the rug pad should be cut approximately 1-2 inches shorter than the rug perimeter.

Installing and using the rug pad is easy. Simply place the carpet mat on a clean, dry floor and smooth out the wrinkles. The lightweight, non-adhesive design makes it super easy to add or move the pad without leaving sticky stains. Please note that the pad can only be used on a flat, hard surface.

Pros

  • Non-toxic and safe for your health
  • Provides additional thickness and cushion for your rug
  • Open grid weave technology allows air flow and circulation under your rug
  • Versatile and can be used on various surfaces and for different purposes
  • Customizable size to fit any rug

Cons

  • – Not suitable for use on carpeted floors

9. Grip-It Solid Cushioned Non-Slip Rug Pad For Rugs On Hard Surface Floors 8×10 Ft

The Grip-it Solid Grip 8' x 10' low-profile non-slip rug pads are designed to provide a solid surface area coverage and keep area rugs in place. These rug pads are made with polyester scrim densely coated with a high-grade vinyl compound, making them durable and long-lasting. The balanced design is a perfect choice for area rugs that do not need extra cushioning or where door thresholds are an issue.

Area rugs that shift and slide can be a safety hazard and cause damage to the floor surface. The Solid Grip rug pads help lock the area rug in place and prevent dirt, dust, and debris from migrating down through the area rug. They also offer sound dampening and insulating properties, making them an excellent choice for busy areas.

The Solid Grip rug pads are hand washable in mild detergent, rinse, and air dry. They come ready to use out of the package and can be easily trimmed to fit unique sizes and shapes with household scissors. However, always follow the flooring manufacturer's recommendation when choosing any type of rug pad.

Please note that vinyl rug pads may not be suitable for use on some types of lacquered, acrylic, and water-based quick dry floor finishes. They should not be used on heated or porous floors.

Pros

  • Provides solid surface area coverage for area rugs
  • Helps keep area rugs in place
  • Offers sound dampening and insulating properties
  • Protects the floor surface from dirt, dust, and debris
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Hand washable in mild detergent

Cons

  • – Not suitable for use on some types of lacquered, acrylic, and water-based quick dry floor finishes
  • – Should not be used on heated or porous floors

Best Underlayment For Vinyl Flooring On Concrete FAQs

Can I install vinyl flooring directly on a concrete subfloor without an underlayment?

Yes, you can install vinyl flooring directly on a concrete subfloor without an underlayment. However, whether or not you should do so depends on a few factors. First, you need to ensure that the concrete subfloor is level and free of any debris or imperfections that could affect the installation of the vinyl flooring. If the subfloor is not level, you may need to use a self-leveling compound to even it out before installing the vinyl.

Another factor to consider is the type of vinyl flooring you plan to install. Some vinyl flooring options, such as luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT), come with built-in underlayment or padding that provides cushioning and sound-dampening properties. In this case, you may not need an additional underlayment.

However, sheet vinyl and some other types of vinyl flooring may benefit from the use of an underlayment to provide additional cushioning and support. An underlayment can also help to smooth out any imperfections in the subfloor and provide a moisture barrier.

Ultimately, the decision to install vinyl flooring directly on a concrete subfloor without an underlayment will depend on the specific circumstances of your project. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional installer or manufacturer to determine the best course of action for your flooring installation.

Can I use a moisture barrier underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete?

Yes, you can use a moisture barrier underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete. In fact, it is highly recommended to use a moisture barrier to prevent any moisture from seeping through the concrete and damaging the vinyl flooring. Moisture barrier underlayment is made of materials that are resistant to moisture and water, which makes them ideal for installation on concrete floors.

Before installing the moisture barrier underlayment, however, you should ensure that the concrete floor is clean, dry, and free from any debris. This will ensure that the underlayment adheres well to the concrete surface and provides a stable base for the vinyl flooring.

It is also important to choose the right type of moisture barrier underlayment that is suitable for your specific vinyl flooring type. Different types of vinyl flooring require different types of underlayment, so it is important to consult with the manufacturer's recommendations or seek advice from a professional flooring installer.

In summary, using a moisture barrier underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete is a smart decision that can help protect your flooring investment from any moisture-related damage.

Do I need an underlayment for vinyl flooring on a concrete subfloor?

Yes, it is recommended to use an underlayment for vinyl flooring on a concrete subfloor. An underlayment is a thin layer of material that is placed between the subfloor and the vinyl flooring. It helps to create a smooth and level surface for the vinyl flooring to adhere to and also provides additional cushioning and insulation.

There are different types of underlayment available, such as foam, cork, and rubber. The type of underlayment you choose will depend on your specific needs and the type of vinyl flooring you plan to install.

It is important to note that some vinyl flooring products come with attached underlayment, so you may not need to purchase a separate underlayment. However, it is still important to ensure that the concrete subfloor is clean, dry, and level before installing the vinyl flooring and underlayment.

Overall, using an underlayment for vinyl flooring on a concrete subfloor is recommended for optimal performance and longevity of the flooring.

How thick should the underlayment be for vinyl flooring on concrete?

The thickness of the underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete ultimately depends on the condition of the concrete surface. If the concrete is smooth and even, a thin underlayment of 1/8 inch may suffice. However, if the concrete has imperfections, a thicker underlayment of 1/4 inch or more may be necessary to level out the surface and provide a stable base for the vinyl flooring.

In addition to leveling the surface, the underlayment can also provide sound insulation and moisture protection. It is important to choose an underlayment that is compatible with the type of vinyl flooring being installed and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for installation.

Overall, the thickness of the underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete should be determined by the condition of the concrete and the specific needs of the installation. Consulting with a flooring professional can help ensure that the correct underlayment is selected and installed for optimal performance and longevity of the vinyl flooring.

What type of underlayment is best for vinyl flooring on concrete?

When it comes to installing vinyl flooring on concrete, selecting the right underlayment is crucial for ensuring a smooth and long-lasting finish. The best underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete is one that provides a moisture barrier and a level surface. The most popular types of underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete include cork, foam, and rubber.

Cork underlayment is an excellent choice for those who want to reduce noise and provide a comfortable walking surface. It is also an eco-friendly option that is resistant to moisture and mold. Foam underlayment is another popular option that is easy to install and provides a cushioned surface. It is also affordable and can be used over any subfloor.

Rubber underlayment is the most durable option for vinyl flooring on concrete. It is resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it ideal for areas that are prone to dampness. It also provides excellent sound insulation and can be used in high-traffic areas.

Ultimately, the best underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider factors like moisture resistance, sound insulation, and durability when choosing the right underlayment for your vinyl flooring installation.

Leave a Comment