A Complete Guide to Installing Cali All In One Underlayment for LVP Floors

Introduction to Cali Complete All In One Underlayment

Installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors on a budget. LVP provides the look and feel of real wood or stone floors, while being more affordable and easy to install than traditional hardwood or tile. A key component in any LVP installation is the underlayment. Choosing the right underlayment is critical for providing a smooth, quiet, and well-insulated floor.

One of the best LVP underlayments on the market is Cali Complete All In One Underlayment. Cali underlayment is a foam cushioned underlayment that acts as a moisture barrier, sound barrier, and thermal insulator all in one. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the benefits of using Cali underlayment for LVP floors and provide tips on how to properly install it.

Benefits of Using Cali Underlayment

Here are some of the top benefits of using Cali Complete underlayment for LVP floors:

Noise Reduction

Cali underlayment is excellent at absorbing sound and limiting noise transfer. This is important for condos, apartments, and multi-level homes where excess noise transfer can be an issue. The dense foam cushioning absorbs foot traffic noise and other impacts, giving you a quieter floor.

Moisture Protection

The underlayment features a built-in moisture barrier that prevents moisture from seeping through to your LVP flooring. Moisture can warp and damage floor boards over time. Cali's moisture barrier keeps the floor protected.

Insulation

Cali underlayment provides thermal insulation to help keep floors warmer in the winter and cooler in summer. This can help reduce heating and cooling costs and keep your feet comfy year-round.

Smooth Surface

The foam cushioning creates a smooth, seamless subfloor surface for installing LVP planks. This allows for a smooth, even installation without lumps or bumps telegraphing through the floor.

Easy Installation

Cali underlayment is lightweight and easy to cut with just a utility knife. The puzzle-piece edges click together simply to create a connected underlayment surface.

High Quality

This underlayment is made from durable, high-density foam that won't break down or compress over time. It's built to last the lifetime of your floor.

How to Install Cali All In One Underlayment

Installing Cali underlayment is a straightforward process but there are some important tips to follow:

Subfloor Preparation

The subfloor surface must be cleaned, leveled, and prepped before installing the underlayment. Fill any cracks or gouges with floor leveling compound. Make sure the surface is clean of debris, dust, and grease.

Lay Out Underlayment

Roll out the Cali underlayment with the moisture barrier side facing down toward the subfloor. The overlapping joins allow you to gradually unroll and connect each section seamlessly.

Trim to Fit

Use a utility knife to trim and fit the Cali underlayment around the edges of the room. Cut openings for vents, pipes, and other openings as needed.

Seal Seams

Use the provided seam tape to cover and seal the joins between underlayment sheets. This creates a moisture barrier across the entire subfloor surface.

Install Flooring

Once the underlayment is fully installed, you can begin clicking your LVP planks into place on top per the flooring manufacturer’s instructions. The underlayment provides cushioning and helps absorb any imperfections.

Transition Pieces

Use tapered transition strips to transition from areas with underlayment to areas without, such as doorways or tile floors. This allows for the height difference.

Tips for Installing Cali Underlayment

Cheap Tools That Get the Job Done

You don't need fancy tools to install Cali underlayment. A simple utility knife does the trick for cutting the foam. Use a wallpaper seam roller to flatten joins and ensure strong seams.

Stagger the Sheets

When unrolling multiple sheets of the underlayment, be sure to stagger the seams like laying bricks. This prevents any large gaps or weak points in the coverage.

Give Yourself Extra

Have some extra Cali underlayment on hand for any mistakes or last-minute adjustments. It's better to have a little extra than to find yourself just short.

Check for Damage

Inspect each sheet for rips, tears, or gaps in the moisture barrier before installing. This prevents damaged areas once the flooring is laid.

Tight Seams

Be diligent about sealing every seam with tape for a complete moisture barrier. Don't leave gaps where moisture could infiltrate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is special adhesive required?

No. Cali underlayment is designed with an overlapping, puzzle-edge join that clicks sheets together securely. No adhesive is needed for the underlayment itself.

Can this be installed on concrete?

Yes, Cali underlayment can be installed over concrete subfloors. The moisture barrier helps protect the LVP flooring from any moisture seeping up from concrete slabs.

What thickness should I choose?

Cali Complete is available in 2mm, 3mm, and 5mm thicknesses. For LVP flooring, the 2mm thickness is recommended for general use and provides excellent cushioning.

Is underlayment needed for LVP?

While LVP doesn't require an underlayment, it is highly recommended. Underlayment protects against moisture, absorbs sound, and creates a smooth subfloor for the flooring to be installed on.

How is this different than laminate underlayment?

Laminate underlayments are similar but are designed specifically for laminate flooring installation. Cali Complete works for both laminate and LVP flooring with its high density foam and moisture barrier.

Conclusion

Upgrading to beautiful, durable LVP flooring is easier than ever with the innovative Cali Complete All In One underlayment. This underlayment eliminates the need for separate moisture, sound, and insulation layers by providing everything an LVP floor needs in one easy-to-install product. Following the tips above will ensure a smooth, long-lasting installation.

FAQs

What thickness of Cali underlayment should I use?

For most LVP flooring installations, the 2mm thickness of Cali Complete underlayment is recommended. It provides adequate cushioning and insulation without being too thick.

Can I install radiant heating underneath Cali underlayment?

Yes, Cali Complete underlayment is compatible with radiant heating systems installed beneath the subfloor. The underlayment helps distribute and retain heat.

Is Cali underlayment suitable for bathrooms or basements?

Yes. The moisture barrier in Cali underlayment helps protect LVP flooring from moisture damage in damp areas like bathrooms or basements.

What tools do I need to install Cali underlayment?

You'll need basic tools like a utility knife, wallpaper seam roller, and tape measure. No special tools are required to install this underlayment.

Can I walk on the flooring right after installing it over Cali?

It's best to avoid walking on the finished flooring for 24 hours after installation to allow the planks to adhere properly.