10 Best Underlayment For Vinyl Flooring 2025 in the United States

This STEICO Wood Fiber Flooring Underlayment is a natural choice for those installing vinyl, laminate, LVT, LVP, or hardwood floors and looking to improve comfort and durability. At 6mm (1/4 inch) thick, it provides a solid base that helps prevent floor squeaks and supports the click-lock system well, reducing any springy feeling underfoot. Made from pure wood fibers with no added glue or harmful chemicals, it’s an environmentally friendly option that also meets strict soundproofing standards, so it effectively reduces noise, especially on concrete slabs without additional ceiling layers. The underlayment’s breathable design uses “Vapor Open” technology, allowing air to circulate beneath your flooring to prevent moisture buildup, which is important but it doesn’t act as a full moisture barrier against heavy water exposure. This means you’ll want to ensure your subfloor is dry before installation.

Covering a large area (2160 sq ft per pallet) and sold in manageable 24-piece packages, it suits bigger projects well. However, it is heavier than some synthetic alternatives, so handling might require some effort. While it’s great for sound absorption, comfort, and protecting your floor’s locking system, those specifically needing a high-level moisture barrier may need to add an extra vapor barrier layer. This wood fiber underlayment is a solid, eco-friendly option that enhances soundproofing and floor stability for vinyl and similar floors, especially in dry environments.

The QuietWalk LV Underlayment is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their vinyl flooring experience. One of its standout features is the superior sound reduction, thanks to the use of recycled fibers that absorb noise effectively. This makes it an excellent fit for homes or apartments, where minimizing sound transfer can significantly increase comfort and privacy. Its compression-resistant design ensures that it retains its shape even under heavy foot traffic, which is a crucial factor for durability in busy areas.

In terms of moisture protection, the DriWick technology prevents moisture from becoming trapped, which is especially beneficial for installations over concrete subfloors. This feature is paired with a vapor barrier that further protects your floor, addressing a common concern with vinyl installations.

Another advantage is its versatility; it works with various installation methods, including floating, glue-down, and nail-down, making it suitable for a wide range of flooring types, including luxury vinyl, laminate, and wood floors. Additionally, it's compatible with in-floor radiant heating systems, allowing for a more comfortable living space. However, its thickness may be slightly less than some users expect for sound absorption when compared to other underlayment options. This may not be an issue for most, but those looking for maximum sound dampening might want to consider thicker alternatives. Also, while it does cover a substantial 360 square feet per roll, larger projects may require multiple rolls, which can increase the overall cost.

It's environmentally friendly, made from recycled synthetic fibers and certified for clean indoor air quality—no VOCs or off-gassing here, which is a plus for health-conscious consumers. The QuietWalk LV Underlayment serves as a comprehensive solution for anyone interested in enhancing their flooring while addressing sound, moisture, and comfort needs.

The QuietWalk Underlayment is designed for use with laminate and floating wood floors, boasting an array of features that enhance flooring performance. It has a thickness of 0.12 inches and is made from recycled synthetic fibers, offering both environmental benefits and durability. One of its significant strengths is the superior sound reduction capability, which helps to minimize noise transmission between rooms, creating a quieter living space.

The underlayment is compression resistant, maintaining its structure even under heavy foot traffic, which helps to prolong the life of your flooring. The attached vapor barrier and Dri-Wick technology provide moisture protection, making it suitable for use over both concrete and wood subfloors, ensuring that moisture does not harm the flooring. Additionally, it is compatible with in-floor radiant heat systems, allowing for even heat distribution without risking damage to the floor covering.

A notable drawback is its specific compatibility limitations; it is not suitable for luxury vinyl flooring, for which the manufacturer recommends the QuietWalk LV. This product comes in a convenient roll size, covering 200 square feet. While it excels in sound reduction, moisture protection, and durability, if you have vinyl flooring, you will need to look at alternative options. This underlayment is ideal for those installing laminate or floating wood floors seeking a robust solution with excellent sound and moisture control.