You should generally not add extra underlayment beneath luxury vinyl or laminate that already features an attached pad, unless the manufacturer explicitly authorizes it in their installation instructions. Most attached pads are engineered specifically to provide the optimal amount of support and cushioning for the floor's locking mechanism. If you add an additional layer of foam or other cushioning underneath, it can result in a 'double-cushion' effect, leading to excessive vertical movement when walked upon. This added movement puts undue stress on the click-lock joints, which can lead to joint separation, clicking sounds, or early failure. It can also cause the floor to feel unstable or mushy underfoot. Always follow the manufacturer's specific recommendations; if they require or permit an additional vapor barrier or underlayment, they will state the exact specifications for thickness and density. Ignoring these guidelines can void your warranty and compromise the structural integrity of your entire flooring system.
Key considerations
- extra underlayment under attached pad LVP
- double pad laminate
- underlayment beneath padded flooring
- attached pad flooring
- extra underlayment
- floating floor