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re: Vinyl Plank Flooring (Update on page 1)

Posted on 6/17/21 at 8:16 am to
Posted by gumbeaux
Member since Jun 2004
4785 posts
Posted on 6/17/21 at 8:16 am to
The question I have is if the vapor barrier is really necessary with the backing already on the underside of the plank. I know it can’t hurt but is it really necessary? It seems that the vapor barrier will be a hassle trying to keep it in place and from bunching up while walking on it and also driving the planks into place with the mallet.
Posted by Clames
Member since Oct 2010
17796 posts
Posted on 6/17/21 at 10:22 am to
Might depend on the brand, I know with some they specifically state not to use a plastic film vapor barrier as they have it built in and a separate plastic layer inhibits proper installation. I think with most LVL systems it's unnecessary and making sure the sub-floor is clean, level, and free of major defects is more important.
Posted by dragginass
Member since Jan 2013
2989 posts
Posted on 6/17/21 at 1:01 pm to
My thoughts too. With an underslab barrier, an additional barrier on top is just sandwiching in any moisture that makes it's way to slab. Probably why there was mold prior to your installation.
Posted by bapple
Capital City
Member since Oct 2010
12133 posts
Posted on 6/17/21 at 1:59 pm to
quote:

Meh, you didn't nub back the shoe mold where it meets the casing on that door. Do it again


I’ll admit my amateur contractor skills. I followed how the previous quarter round was cut but the previous owners of this house were notoriously cheap. That’s probably a good depiction of it.

quote:

The question I have is if the vapor barrier is really necessary with the backing already on the underside of the plank. I know it can’t hurt but is it really necessary?


I was informed by LL Flooring that it was needed to retain my warranty for this specific type of plank (not sure if that’s the case for all of them).

A contractor buddy of mine said the best method to seal the concrete is a paint-on vapor barrier, that way you’re not battling it rolling up and such. That was out of the cards for me because I have two toddlers and can’t have them out of the house that long for the fumes to clear.

I will admit it wasn’t terribly difficult dealing with the plastic barrier. The first few rows were annoying because it wanted to move but once there was weight on it things got easier. I did my kids’ bedroom after the hallway and it was considerably easier being square-shaped rather than L-shaped and the barrier stayed in place easier in there.
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