This step-by-step illustrated guide will show you how to install Vapor 3-in-1 Blue underlayment.
Underlayment is the cushion between your subfloor and your laminate flooring. There are a variety of types of underlayment available. Vapor 3-in-1 Blue underlayment is one of the most popular choices in underlayment because of how much protection it provides.
3-in-1 underlayment options offer a barrier level to protect your flooring. In addition, they guard against moisture and minimize sound pollution when walking on your floors. This type of underlayment is most commonly used when there is a risk of some moisture seeping into the floor and there is a desire for a quieter walking surface.
Installing Vapor 3-in-1 Blue underlayment is easy when you know the right steps to take.
How to Install Vapor 3-in-1 Blue Underlayment
The first thing you will want to do is get organized. Putting together your tools and getting all of the necessary pieces in place will make your installation run a lot smoother.
You will also want to create some climate control in the area where you will be installing the new floors for at least 48 hours before the installation. To do this, keep the room temperature at at least 65°F and the relative humidity below 65%.
Now that you’re ready, let’s get started!
Gather Your Tools And Supplies
To install your underlayment, you will need:
- Vapor 3-in-1 Blue underlayment
- Your Flooring
- Broom and Dustpan
- Tape
- Scissors or a Utility Knife
Step 1: Clean Your Subfloor
If you try to install the underlayment over dirt, dust, or debris, you risk damaging your underlayment and flooring. Clean your subfloor using your broom and dustpan so that it is free of any foreign objects.
Do a Visual Inspection of Your Subfloor
Once cleaned, you can do a visual inspection of your subfloor. Check for damages, such as dents, cracks, holes, protruding objects, uneven flooring, or moisture. All of these can damage your flooring if you try to install your underlayment and laminate on top.
Step 2: Roll Out Your Underlayment
Roll your underlayment next to the wall. Start in the corner to keep it as even as possible across the room.
Put the tape strip next to the wall and the overlapping film outwards toward the open room.
Step 3: Cut the Section
Once you have your underlayment firmly in place, cut the section using your scissors or utility knife.
Step 4: Roll Out the Next Section
Roll out the next section with the tape side over the overlapping film on the previous section.
Step 5: Butt Underlayment
Butt your underlayment sections together so that the tape side is flush up against the other piece of underlayment and on top of the overlapping film. Keep the overlapping film facing outwards throughout your project.
Don’t overlap! Although you want your underlayment sections to be next to each other, be careful you do not overlap the sections beyond the overlapping film. This can cause the flooring to raise up in sections around the room, making it uneven and unstable.
Step 6: Cut Section
Cut the next section of underlayment. If necessary, use tape to hold the underlayment firmly in place while you cut. You can use additional tape if necessary, beyond what is already on the underlayment.
Step 7: Install Your Flooring
By now you should have acclimated your flooring for at least 48 hours before installation by cross stacking the boxes. If you have not done that, pause before you continue. If you have, install your laminate flooring using the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 8: Continue Installation
Continue installing the underlayment and flooring together until your room is complete.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed your Vapor 3-in-1 Blue underlayment. Did we miss a step? Do you have a pro tip to share with others installing underlayment on their own? Share it in the comments below!
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More Installation Tips:
- If the First Row of Flooring is Not Straight Can I Continue a Laminate Flooring Installation?
- Where to Start: Beginning a Laminate Flooring Installation
- Types of Moldings for Laminate Flooring Installation
