Do I Need an Underlayment or Moisture Barrier for Silvan?
It depends on your install method. Floating installs require a vapor barrier, with underlayment on top. Glue-down installs skip the underlayment and use a liquid moisture barrier instead.
Floating Installation
A vapor barrier is required for every floating Silvan install. Silvan does not have a pre-attached pad, so an underlayment is strongly recommended on top of the barrier for comfort and sound.
- Vapor barrier: Required over any subfloor type (e.g., concrete, plywood, or existing flooring).
- Underlayment: Strongly recommended for underfoot comfort and sound reduction. Use any underlayment designed for hardwood flooring with a compressive strength above 60 kPa. If installing over radiant heat, ensure the underlayment is also rated for radiant heat use.
Our Acoustic Underlayment with Vapor Barrier covers both requirements in a single product.
Glue-Down Installation
For a glue-down installation, adhere Silvan directly to the subfloor using a compatible adhesive. Do not use an underlayment — it will interfere with the adhesive bond.
We recommend Bona Quantum 851 adhesive (or equivalent) paired with Bona R590 (or equivalent) as your liquid moisture barrier.
For full installation documentation, see the Silvan Resilient Hardwood Installation Guide
Common Questions
Does Silvan come with pre-attached underlayment?
Silvan does not have a pre-attached pad, so an underlayment is strongly recommended for comfort and sound.
Can I skip the vapor barrier if my home feels dry?
No — not for a floating installation. Subfloors release moisture vapor continuously regardless of how dry your home feels, and the vapor barrier is required by Flooret's installation guidelines. Skipping it risks moisture damage that may void the product warranty.
Can I install over radiant heat with underlayment?
Yes — Silvan can be installed over radiant heat. Keep the floor surface temperature below 80°F (27°C), use both a room thermostat and an in-floor sensor to monitor temperatures, and confirm your underlayment is rated for radiant heat use.
How flat does my subfloor need to be?
Within 1/16" over 6 feet. Smooth any high or low spots with leveling compound or grinding before you start.