If you are looking at fitting glue-down LVT flooring, also known as dryback LVT, it is important to understand how it should be installed. Unlike laminate flooring or some click vinyl floors, glue-down LVT is designed to be stuck directly to a smooth, solid and properly prepared subfloor using adhesive.

That means the quality of the floor underneath matters much more than adding an underlay.

At Discount Flooring Superstore, we supply affordable glue-down LVT for homes, rental properties, renovations and trade projects across the UK. Here is what you need to know before installation.

---

What Is Glue-Down LVT?

Glue-down LVT is a type of luxury vinyl tile that is fitted using adhesive. Each plank or tile is glued directly onto the subfloor, creating a stable, secure and long-lasting finish.

Because the flooring is bonded directly to the floor underneath, it gives a firm feel underfoot and works well in busy areas.

Does Glue-Down LVT Need Underlay?

In fact, using the wrong underlay under glue-down LVT can cause problems. Glue-down flooring needs a flat and stable surface so the adhesive can bond properly. If you put soft underlay underneath, the floor may move, lift, dip or fail over time.

Glue-down LVT should usually be fitted directly onto a prepared subfloor such as:

• Smooth concrete
• Screeded floor
• Suitable plywood
• A properly prepared existing floor surface

The key is not underlay — the key is subfloor preparation.

Why Doesn’t Glue-Down LVT Need Underlay?

Glue-down LVT works differently from floating floors.

A floating floor, such as laminate or some click LVT, sits on top of the subfloor and may use underlay for support, sound reduction or comfort.

Glue-down LVT is different because it is fixed in place with adhesive. The adhesive needs direct contact with the subfloor. If there is underlay in between, the bond may not work properly.

So while underlay sounds like it would make the floor better, with glue-down LVT it can actually cause more harm than good.

What Should Go Under Glue-Down LVT Instead?

Instead of underlay, you need the correct floor preparation.

The subfloor should be:

Any bumps, dips, cracks or uneven patches can show through the LVT once it is installed. This is sometimes called “telegraphing”, where imperfections from the subfloor become visible through the finished floor.

For the best result, you may need:

• Levelling compound
• Primer
• Plywood over timber floors
• Damp proof membrane if required
• Suitable LVT adhesive

This preparation stage is what gives glue-down LVT its clean, professional finish.

Can You Fit Glue-Down LVT on Concrete?

Yes, glue-down LVT can be fitted over concrete, but the concrete must be properly prepared first.

Concrete should be dry, level and free from dust. If the concrete is uneven, a levelling compound may be needed. If there is moisture in the concrete, a damp proof membrane may also be required before fitting the flooring.

A well-prepared concrete floor is one of the best bases for glue-down LVT.

Can You Fit Glue-Down LVT on Floorboards?

You should not normally glue LVT directly onto uneven floorboards.

Wooden floorboards can move, flex and create an uneven surface. Instead, the usual method is to install suitable flooring-grade plywood over the floorboards first. This creates a smooth, stable base for the LVT adhesive.

Once the plywood is securely fitted and prepared, the glue-down LVT can then be installed on top.

Can You Use Underlay for Soundproofing?

With glue-down LVT, standard foam underlay is not the answer.

If sound reduction is important, speak to a flooring professional about specialist acoustic systems that are suitable for glue-down vinyl flooring. Do not use normal laminate or carpet underlay underneath glue-down LVT.

Using the wrong underlay could cause the floor to fail.

Does Glue-Down LVT Feel Hard Without Underlay?

Glue-down LVT will feel firmer than click flooring with built-in backing or laminate with underlay. That is normal.

However, many people prefer the solid feel because it makes the floor feel secure and stable underfoot. It is also one of the reasons glue-down LVT is popular in commercial spaces and busy homes.

If comfort is your main concern, you may want to compare glue-down LVT with click LVT before choosing. But for durability, stability and value, glue-down LVT is a very strong option.

Is Glue-Down LVT Suitable for Underfloor Heating?

Glue-down LVT can often be used with underfloor heating, but it must be installed correctly.

You need to make sure:

• The LVT is suitable for underfloor heating
• The correct adhesive is used
• The subfloor is prepared properly
• The heating system is commissioned correctly
• Temperature limits are followed

Always check the flooring and adhesive instructions before installation.

What Happens If You Put Underlay Under Glue-Down LVT?

Putting normal underlay under glue-down LVT can cause serious issues.

The flooring may not stick properly because the adhesive is not bonding directly to the subfloor. The underlay may also compress when walked on, which can make the LVT move or lift.

In simple terms: don’t do it. Glue-down LVT needs a solid base, not a soft layer underneath.

Glue-Down LVT vs Click LVT: Which One Needs Underlay?

This is where people often get confused.

So if you have previously fitted laminate or click flooring, do not assume glue-down LVT works the same way. It doesn’t.

The Bottom Line

The better the preparation, the better the finished floor will look and perform.

If you are fitting glue-down LVT, focus on:

• Preparing the subfloor properly
• Using the right adhesive
• Making sure the floor is level
• Checking moisture levels
• Following the fitting instructions

At Discount Flooring Superstore, we offer affordable glue-down LVT flooring for homes, trades and commercial projects. Whether you are renovating one room or buying in bulk, our team can help you choose the right flooring for your space.