So technically if you are installing vinyl plank flooring onto concrete you already have a subfloor.
Installing vinyl tile over concrete.
If you want to install the tiles properly you should prepare the floor making sure that the surface is clean without any remains of sealers adhesive or anything else.
Always be sure the existing surface has been cleaned and leveled.
Then use a level to find any spots where the ground is uneven and apply concrete self leveling compound to even it out.
This additional layer can improve insulation and should make your vinyl plank flooring warmer and less resonant.
While you can install tile directly on concrete problems erupt when the concrete cracks or shifts.
Any minor bumps can be removed with a masonry chisel and small sledgehammer.
Ceramic tile over wood tile concrete or vinyl should be installed by using appropriate products that will allow the right adhesion between surfaces.
The strength of the product is similar to concrete.
You can easily install it over any rigid and level surface including concrete wood or even up to one layer of other vinyl.
Use a self leveler on low spots and or sand high spots of wood or concrete.
You can lower high spots with a grinder.
Sheet vinyl can be installed over concrete if the surface of the concrete is clean smooth and dry.
If you were to remove a cracked tile from concrete undoubtedly you would see the same crack pattern below.
Don t sand vinyl flooring as it may contain asbestos.
Self adhesive tiles can reduce the installation time offering you a fully professional look.
Installing self adhesive vinyl tiles over concrete is not always easy especially if you remove carpets from the concrete base.
Cracks in concrete immediately become cracks in the tile.
The concrete floor must also be free of cracks or the vinyl tile will eventually sag into the gap.
Repair any holes or cracks.
To install vinyl plank flooring on concrete you ll first need to clean the concrete with soap and water and fill in any cracks with concrete filler.
Tape a large piece of plastic over the concrete floor securing all edges with duct tape.
Although vinyl flooring is flexible it will separate if you install it over an uneven surface so if the concrete has high spots you need to grind them down and if it has low spots or cracks you need to fill them with concrete patching compound.
Self leveler is available in powder and pre mixed form and is used to create a flat smooth surface in flooring projects.