Does waterproof flooring need an underlayment?

You don't need an underlayment, but you still might want it. Waterproof flooring is an engineered version of luxury vinyl with all the styles of LVF and an assortment of colors, patterns, and textures that work with any decor.

This, combined with the highest level of moisture protection and added durability, is a product that has already attracted the attention of homeowners and flooring retailers alike.

Feel free to visit our showroom if you are considering waterproof flooring in Sarasota, FL, for either your home, retail outlet, restaurant, or other commercial facilities. We have inventory from brands like Armstrong, Bruce, Beauflor, Axiscor, Mannington, and more.

What is an underlayment?

There always seems to be a little confusion here. Underlayments seem to be mainly known as vapor barriers, protecting the floor from excess moisture, and you certainly don't need that with waterproof vinyl flooring. That, however, isn’t the only function of an underlayment.

They also provide cushioning and sound elimination, which, in and of itself, may be reason enough for you to want one, but they also level the subfloors, which, in turn, eliminates plank shifting. The shifting can cause cracking, buckling, and water seepage between the seams, dramatically increasing the product's lifespan.

The core difference

This flooring features the WPC (wood plastic composite) or SPC (stone plastic composite) cores which are technologically advanced and won't peel or ripple no matter how much water there is or for how long. The two offer the same high level of water protection and make the product thicker, but the difference is the feeling underfoot. While WPC is warmer and more flexible, like resilient flooring, SPC is firmer and more rigid like a hard surface.

Waterproof flooring is cost-effective, visually appealing, and ultra-durable. To learn more, we invite you to visit the Paradise Floors and More showroom in Sarasota, FL, where our experts will show you how it can give you the ultimate peace of mind–plus a free quote. We work on residential and commercial projects in and around Sarasota, Bradenton, and Venice, FL.