Posted by Paul_B_O'Dell on December 06, 1999 at 20:56:38:
In Reply to: Putting Underlayment Over Kitchen Carpet posted by brosling on November 25, 1999 at 21:07:52:
: We are in the process of putting down new vinyl in kitchen. Kitchen carpet has been removed, but there is still a thin layer of foam left that the installer of the vinyl said could be left since we are putting 1/4 inch underlayment down before the vinyl is installed. The process of removing is too costly and timely according to installer. The area is 12feet by 5 feet.
: Should the thin layer of foam be removed? Installer states that nailing the underlayment every inch will keep it tight and from moving. Thank you!!!
Sounds to me like your installer is trying to get out of doing a good job or is way to busy to do extra work. Or he is lazy.
The carpet backing WILL create movement in your subfloor that can cause staple heads to pop up through the vinyl, patch to crack out where the subfloor seams are, and possible delamination and/or deterioration of the subfloor and vinyl over time. He is just banking on it lasting one year ... because thats all he needs to guarantee the installation for by law. He is correct in his statement that it will cost more though.
GET HIM TO DO IT RIGHT OR GET ANOTHER INSTALLER THAT CARES.