10 Best Underlayment For Vinyl Plank Flooring Vapor Barrier 2025 in the United States

The ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment is a solid choice for those looking to install vinyl plank flooring, particularly due to its efficient use of material and performance features. With a thickness of 2.5 mm, it provides a good balance of cushioning and sound reduction, making it suitable for both residential and commercial settings. The IIC and STC ratings of 70 and 66 respectively indicate that it effectively minimizes sound transmission, which is beneficial in multi-story homes or apartments. Its compatibility with radiant heated floors is a significant plus for users looking to maintain warmth in their living spaces.

A standout feature is the 600 sq. ft. roll size, which offers great value compared to purchasing smaller rolls. This can save time and money during installation, which is appealing to DIY enthusiasts as well as professional installers. The easy installation process, aided by the plastic overlap and adhesive strip, simplifies the setup further, making it a user-friendly option.

While the underlayment is designed for compatibility with vinyl plank flooring, some users might find its performance less optimal compared to specialized underlayments tailored exclusively for vinyl. Additionally, being a product primarily for sound absorption and cushioning, it may not provide the same level of moisture barrier as thicker options, which could be a concern in areas prone to high humidity. Ultimately, the ROBERTS Black Jack Underlayment serves well for those prioritizing sound absorption and affordability while installing vinyl plank flooring. However, for specific moisture concerns or if maximum performance is sought, exploring other dedicated options could be worthwhile.

The QuietWalk LV Underlayment offers a solid choice for anyone looking to install luxury vinyl, laminate, or wood flooring. One of its standout features is the superior sound reduction; made from recycled fibers, it effectively absorbs sound, ensuring a quiet environment, which is particularly beneficial for multi-level homes or apartments. Additionally, the compression-resistant material supports the seams of your flooring, making it durable against constant foot traffic.

Moisture protection is another strong point, with the unique DriWick technology allowing concrete subfloors to breathe. This feature prevents moisture vapor from getting trapped, safeguarding your flooring from potential damage. The attached vapor barrier adds another layer of protection, making it suitable for both concrete and wood subfloors. Plus, it's compatible with in-floor radiant heat systems, which is a bonus for those looking for added comfort.

In terms of compatibility, this underlayment works well with various installation methods—floating, glue-down, or nail-down—making it a versatile option for different flooring types, especially those that are at least 4mm thick. The product is also certified for clean indoor air quality, which means no unpleasant VOCs or off-gassing, a great feature for health-conscious consumers. However, the QuietWalk LV may be a bit bulkier at 30 pounds and 6 feet in length per roll, which could be cumbersome for some users during installation. Additionally, while the sound absorption properties are impressive, some may find that it doesn’t completely eliminate noise in very high-traffic areas.

The FLOORLOT BlueStep Underlayment is a versatile option for those looking to protect their floors from moisture and reduce noise. Its 3-millimeter thickness provides a good balance of cushioning, helping to smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor. This underlayment includes a built-in moisture barrier, which is essential to protect your floors from subfloor moisture without the need for additional films.

The sound absorption is standard, effectively quieting sounds from foot traffic, which can be a significant benefit in active households, reducing the hollow sound often associated with floating floors. Installation is straightforward, as the product is easy to roll out, and the seams can be connected with the included tape, making it a user-friendly option.

This underlayment is primarily designed for laminate and wood floors, including engineered wood and solid hardwood. The blue-colored foam material is durable and provides additional thermal insulation, which can increase comfort.