Everything You’ll Need
| Tool | Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) | Sheet Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utility Knife | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Tape Measure | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Straight Edge | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Pry Bar | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Spacers | ✔ | ✔ | ❌ |
| Tapping Block | ✔ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Non-Marring Hammer | ✔ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Squeegee | ❌ | ✔ | ❌ |
| Grout Float | ❌ | ✔ | ❌ |
| Notched Trowel | ❌ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Floor Roller | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ |
| Heat Gun | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ |
| Seam Roller | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ |
Step 1: Prepare the Space
Take Off Baseboards and Old Flooring
To get your room ready for vinyl plank flooring, first take off the baseboards and old flooring. This will leave you with a clean floor to start with.
Use a pry bar to gently remove baseboards without harming the walls.
If you are taking out carpet, cut it into pieces with a utility knife and pull it up. Follow proper steps to remove other types of flooring.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Any Cracks or Uneven Parts
Sweep and vacuum the subfloor to get rid of dirt and debris. Check the surface for cracks or uneven areas.
Use a leveling compound to fill gaps or low spots, and sand high spots to make the surface even.
Install Underlayment for Extra Comfort and Quietness
Though not always needed, underlayment can add cushion and reduce noise, making the floor more comfy and quiet.
If you use underlayment, roll it out over the subfloor and secure it with tape, making sure there are no gaps or overlaps.
Step 2: Pick a Pattern or Design
Vinyl flooring patterns give many design choices to make your space look nice.
These patterns, from classic to modern, help you create floors that match your home style.
Discover some popular vinyl flooring patterns and see how they can improve your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is the simplest way to install vinyl flooring. Planks run in the same direction as the walls, giving a neat look that fits any room, like bedrooms or living areas.
Diagonal Pattern
For an exciting look, try the diagonal pattern. Planks are set at a 45-degree angle, adding depth. This can make small rooms look bigger and adds drama to large spaces.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is a classic choice. Planks form a zigzag pattern, adding texture and elegance to any room. It’s great for entryways, kitchens, and dining rooms.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is trendy and modern. Planks form a continuous zigzag. It’s perfect for giving a chic touch to any space.
Parquet Pattern
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
There are many ways to install vinyl plank flooring. Each way has its own benefits, depending on your needs and the type of vinyl.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, or peel-and-stick, is easy and good for DIY projects. Each plank has a sticky back. You peel off the cover and stick it to the floor.
GripStrip works best with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring. It might not work well with thinner vinyl like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT).
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, or interlocking, uses planks that click together. This way, the floor floats over the base, adjusting to temperature changes.
Click-Lock is great for LVP and LVT floors.
Take Note:
- Follow the manufacturer’s guide to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers by walls for expansion gaps, preventing buckling or warping.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down means putting glue on the floor and pressing the planks down. This makes the floor strong and permanent, good for busy areas.
Take Note:
- Use a good adhesive made for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas to keep the glue sticky.
- Press the planks firmly with a roller for a strong bond.
- Let the glue dry well before walking on the floor or placing heavy things.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Cut the Short Tongue Edge of First Plank
To begin, cut off the short tongue edge of the first plank so it fits against the wall. Use a utility knife for a clean cut along the tongue edge.
Place First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from Wall
Put the first plank about 1⁄4 inch away from the wall. This gap helps when the floor changes with temperature and humidity. Use spacers to keep this gap.
Use Spacers for Expansion
Put spacers between planks and walls to keep the 1/4-inch gap. This ensures the floor can expand and contract without problems.
Stagger Plank Ends by 6 Inches
Stagger the plank ends in each row by at least 6 inches. This gives a professional look and helps make the floor stable.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Score and Snap Planks
To fit planks around corners and edges, score the plank with a utility knife. Then, snap it along the line for a clean break.
For Irregular Cuts
Use a jigsaw or oscillating multi-tool for odd shapes, like around door frames or pipes. These tools allow for precise cuts. Learn how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe’s diameter and add an inch. Drill a hole in the plank this size. Cut the plank to fit around the pipe, leaving a half-inch gap. Install the plank and seal with silicone caulk.
For Tight Spaces Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to cut planks for tight spots, like under door jambs. It makes precise cuts close to the floor, allowing planks to fit neatly.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Angle the Tongue of the Plank into the Groove of the Previous Row
To lay the next rows, tilt each plank’s tongue into the groove of the row before. This secures them together tightly.
Use a Tapping Block and Non-Marring Hammer
To fit them snugly, gently tap the planks with a tapping block and non-marring hammer. Don’t use a regular hammer directly on the planks to avoid damage.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying all planks, add transition strips at doorways and between rooms for a smooth change and to protect flooring edges. Follow the maker’s steps for putting in the strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
When changing to a different type of floor, use a T-molding or reducer strip. Connect the strip to the subfloor, not the vinyl planks, for a secure finish.
Leave a 1/4-inch space between the vinyl planks and the strip for movement and to stop buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put back the baseboards, making sure they are attached to the wall, not the floor. This helps the flooring expand and shrink freely.
Allow the Floor to Acclimate for 48 Hours Before Use
Let the new floor sit for 48 hours before walking on it or moving furniture. This time helps the floor match the room’s heat and moisture.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Wet Areas
Vinyl plank flooring is not good for wet places like bathrooms. Water can get into seams and make planks warp or peel.
Using Tools on the Planks
Using a rubber mallet or hammer right on the planks can cause harm. Always use a tapping block to keep planks safe during setup.
End Joints in Rows
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in rows next to each other. Overlapping can make the floor weak and uneven.
Walking During Acclimation
Do not walk on the floor for 48 hours during acclimation. This time helps the floor settle for a lasting setup.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room exactly and figure out how much flooring you need. Add 10% extra for cutting and waste.
- Check each plank before putting it down and get rid of any damaged ones. This helps the floor look perfect at the end.
- Use a knee pad for comfort while installing. It protects your knees and makes the job easier.
- Go slow and be careful to avoid mistakes. Rushing can cause errors and make it look less professional.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Installing vinyl plank flooring has different costs depending on the method:
- Peel-and-stick: Usually $1.50 to $8 per square foot.
- Glue-down: Can be $2.50 to $12.50 per square foot.
- Floating/Interlocking: Typically $3 to $13 per square foot.
Labor costs are $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on how complex the installation is.
Other costs might include underlayment at $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot and transition strips and trim from $1 to $5 per linear foot for a neat finish.
Do You Need Professional Help With Your Vinyl Flooring Installation Project?
Now you’ve learned to install vinyl plank flooring, you’re ready to create a nice, strong floor. But if you want help, we’re here for you.
Our flooring installation team does it all — from getting the subfloor ready to placing each plank perfectly — so you can relax and enjoy great results. We’ll help you pick the right vinyl flooring for your space, like luxury vinyl plank or tile.
Contact us today to book your free in-home consultation and check if we serve your area.
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