Best Underlayment For Luxury Vinyl Plank: Top 8 Picks

Large rooms and open-plan spaces demand underlayment that can cover wide areas efficiently while providing robust sound and moisture protection. Choosing a product designed for these needs ensures a quieter, more comfortable home.

Quiet Walk LV 360 Sq Ft Flooring Underlayment excels in large-scale applications, offering broad compatibility with luxury vinyl, laminate, and engineered wood. Its eco-friendly, recycled fiber build and advanced moisture barrier make it a dependable choice for family rooms, basements, and high-traffic zones.

• 360 sqft coverage: Ideal for full rooms or multiple projects
• Patented DriWick moisture protection: Keeps floors dry and safe
• Compression-resistant stability: Withstands heavy furniture and foot traffic

Compared to smaller or less specialized options, this underlayment prioritizes coverage and durability for big projects. The tradeoff is that it may be more than needed for single-room or spot repairs.

When installing different types of flooring throughout your home, finding a single underlayment that works everywhere saves time and effort. This product addresses the need for a universal, reliable base layer that supports LVP, laminate, and engineered wood.

Quiet Walk LV 300 is a strong option for multi-room renovations or homes with a mix of flooring types. Its blend of sound absorption, moisture protection, and eco-friendly construction makes it a practical choice for families and DIYers alike.

• Supports multiple installation methods including floating, glue-down, and nail-down
• Integrated DriWick moisture barrier protects against water vapor and spills
• High-density recycled fibers provide lasting compression resistance

Unlike single-purpose underlayments, this one prioritizes flexibility and broad compatibility. The tradeoff is slightly less coverage per roll compared to the largest options.

Small rooms, hallways, or patch repairs often require underlayment that is easy to handle and doesn't leave excess waste. Choosing the right size and compatibility is crucial for efficient installation and effective sound reduction.

Quiet Walk LV 100 Sq Ft Underlayment is a smart pick for compact areas and targeted projects. Its manageable roll size and broad compatibility with luxury vinyl, laminate, and engineered wood make it a practical choice for DIYers and those tackling smaller jobs.

• 100 sqft coverage: Ideal for small rooms or repairs without leftover material
• Wide flooring compatibility: Supports LVP, laminate, engineered wood, and more
• Eco-friendly recycled fibers: GREENGUARD Gold Certified for safer indoor air

Compared to larger rolls, this underlayment is easier to maneuver and reduces waste, but it may not be cost-effective for whole-home installations.

Moisture is a leading cause of basement floor issues, and sometimes a straightforward vapor barrier is all that’s needed. This underlayment film provides a durable, easy-to-install solution for homeowners who want basic moisture protection without added complexity.

ROBERTS Moisture Barricade is ideal for installations under vinyl, laminate, or engineered wood where a separate underlayment isn’t required. It’s especially useful for floors with pre-attached pads or when you want to keep costs and installation time low.

• 6 mil thickness exceeds industry requirements for vapor barriers
• 10 x 12 ft roll is manageable for small to medium rooms
• Adhesive seam strip ensures a tight moisture seal

Compared to multi-layer underlayments, this film is simple and budget-friendly. The tradeoff is that it doesn’t offer sound or thermal insulation.

For busy homeowners or DIYers, ease of installation can make or break a flooring project. This underlayment offers a self-sticking adhesive and lightweight design, making it a go-to for fast, hassle-free setups.

AMERIQUE 400SQFT 2MM 3-in-1 is ideal for those who want a balance of sound reduction, moisture protection, and quick application. It’s especially suitable for floating floors and vinyl installations where time and simplicity matter.

• Self-adhesive tape streamlines installation and reduces setup time
• 2mm foam with anti-crush technology maintains support underfoot
• 3-in-1 design combines cushioning, vapor barrier, and sound reduction

Compared to more complex or multi-layered options, this underlayment prioritizes speed and simplicity. The tradeoff is slightly less thickness and premium feel than some competitors.

Eco-conscious buyers often seek underlayment that balances performance with sustainable materials. This product solves the need for a non-toxic, durable base layer that also supports family health and environmental goals.

Eco Cork Foam Floor Underlayment is a strong pick for those prioritizing eco-friendliness, waterproofing, and sound insulation. It’s well-suited for homes where indoor air quality and long-term durability are key concerns.

• Proprietary cork and foam blend offers comfort and non-toxic protection
• Built-in 6-mil vapor barrier ensures waterproof performance
• Self-sealing tape and overlap simplify installation and enhance coverage

Compared to standard foam or fiber options, this underlayment emphasizes sustainability and comfort. The tradeoff is a potentially higher price point and different feel underfoot.

Some flooring projects demand extra cushioning for comfort and minor subfloor imperfections. This underlayment offers a thicker profile, making it a solution for those who want a softer feel underfoot and added support.

AMERIQUE 400SQFT 3.5MM 3-in-1 is best for homeowners prioritizing comfort and a more forgiving installation base. It’s particularly useful in bedrooms or living areas where underfoot softness is valued.

• 3.5mm thickness provides additional cushioning and support
• 3-in-1 design combines vapor barrier, sound reduction, and padding
• Large 400 sq. ft. roll covers big projects efficiently

Compared to thinner or more basic options, this underlayment prioritizes comfort and coverage. The tradeoff is that extra thickness may not be suitable for all LVP products or tight transitions.

Basements with high moisture or heavy foot traffic need an underlayment that can withstand both. A premium, waterproof option offers peace of mind and long-term protection for finished floors.

DRICORE Certiguard Premium Underlayment is engineered for demanding environments, supporting up to 6,600 pounds per sq. ft. Its 100% waterproof, high-density plastic construction and Air Gap Technology ensure year-round moisture defense and positive airflow beneath floors.

• Supports 6,600 lbs/sq ft: Handles heavy loads and high traffic
• 100% waterproof: Prevents water damage in wet basements
• Air Gap Technology: Maintains airflow to reduce mold risk

Compared to standard foam or film barriers, this underlayment offers superior durability and moisture protection, but its robust build may be more than needed for low-moisture areas.