Visqueen Vapor Barrier Underlayment

Protection from moisture has never been easier using this thin, durable and affordable vapor barrier! Use the Visqueen BVapor barrier for laminate, vinyl, hardwood and engineered hardwood floors over concrete or any subfloor with potential moisture issues.

Most commonly, the Visqueen Vapor Barrier will be used with solid hardwood floors or laminates with pre-attached underlayment. Follow these easy instructions to get your vapor barrier installed correctly!

Good organization will help to start your project smoothly. Gather all of your supplies for both the underlayment and flooring installation.

• Visqueen Vapor Barrier Underlayment
• Tape
• Scissors or Utility Knife
• Broom or ShopVac

Step 1: Properly Prepare your Subfloor

Before you start installing the vapor barrier, properly prepare your subfloor. Use these requirements for wood and concrete subfloors. Your area should be completely free of dust and debris.

Step 2: Lay the First Row of Underlayment

Roll the vapor barrier out parallel to the direction you are installing your floor. We recommend working from left to right. You will want to overlap the vapor barrier equal to 2 inches or more on the wall.

Step 3: Is the Underlayment Folded?

Sometimes the roll of vapor barrier will be folded up to three times over. Once the first row is laid, check to see if the material is folded. If so, measure the length, cut, and unfold. You will use these pieces when installing the next few rows.

Step 4: Second Row

Either roll out a new roll or use a folded over piece that is already cut. Unlike other underlayment installations, you want to overlap the vapor barrier. The goal of this underlayment is to block vapor and moisture, so an overlapping, tight seal will prevent any moisture damage through the barrier. The overlap should be 4-6 inches.

Step 6: Seal

Once the second row is in place, use industrial grade tape to seal the seams. Make sure you leave no gaps.

Step 7: Start the Flooring Installation

Install your laminate or hardwood flooring following the manufacturer’s instructions. Work in sections, installing a few rows of flooring and a few rows of underlayment.