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
The first step to get your room ready for vinyl plank flooring is to take off any baseboards and old flooring. This leaves you with a clean floor to start with.
Use a pry bar to gently take off the baseboards, being careful not to harm the walls.
If you’re taking out carpet, cut it into smaller pieces with a utility knife and pull it up. For other flooring, follow the right steps to remove it.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Cracks or Uneven Spots
Sweep and vacuum the subfloor well to get rid of all dirt and debris. Check the surface for cracks or uneven spots.
Use a leveling compound to fill any gaps or low areas, and sand down high spots to make an even surface.
Add Underlayment for More Cushion and Quiet
Though not always needed, adding underlayment can give more cushion and quiet, making your floor comfy and quiet.
If you want 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 installation patterns offer many ways to make your space look nice.
These patterns can match any style, from old to new, and make your floors look special and beautiful.
Check out some popular vinyl flooring patterns to see how they can improve your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is the simplest way to install vinyl flooring. The planks go in the same direction as the walls, giving a neat and even look that fits any room, from bedrooms to living spaces.
Diagonal Pattern
A diagonal pattern is more exciting and looks interesting. The planks go at a 45-degree angle, adding movement and depth. This pattern can make small rooms look bigger and adds drama to big spaces.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is a classic choice. The planks form a zigzag, creating a V-shape. This pattern adds texture and elegance to any room, making it great for entryways, kitchens, and dining areas.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is stylish too. The planks create a continuous zigzag. This pattern gives a modern and chic feel, perfect for contemporary spaces.
Parquet Pattern
Parquet patterns arrange vinyl planks in shapes like squares or diamonds. These patterns can be simple or fancy, depending on what you want.
They add interest and elegance, making them popular for formal living rooms, offices, and commercial areas.
Mixed Patterns
Mixing different patterns in the same space creates a unique look. You can design custom patterns that show your style.
For example, combine a straight lay with a herringbone border or make a checkerboard with different colors.
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
There are different ways to install vinyl plank flooring. Each way has its pros and cons, based on the vinyl type and your needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, or peel-and-stick, is an easy method for DIY vinyl plank flooring installation.
Each plank has a sticky back, so you peel off the film and stick it to the floor.
GripStrip works best with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) because it’s thicker and stiffer for the adhesive.
It might not work well for thinner vinyl like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Sheet Vinyl.
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, or interlocking, uses planks with edges that snap together tightly.
This method doesn’t need glue and lets the floor “float,” so it adapts to temperature and humidity changes.
Click-Lock works for LVP, LVT, and some Sheet Vinyl.
Take Note:
- Follow the instructions for aligning and locking the planks to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers by the walls for the right expansion gap, so the floor can move without buckling.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down involves putting adhesive on the floor and pressing the planks on top.
This method gives a strong, lasting bond and is good for busy areas or commercial spaces.
It provides a stable floor that handles heavy use and moisture.
Take Note:
- Pick a good adhesive made for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas to keep the adhesive sticky while installing.
- Use a roller to press the planks into the adhesive for a good bond.
- Let the adhesive dry before walking on the floor or placing heavy items.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Cut the Short Tongue Edge of the First Plank
Begin the first row by cutting off the short tongue edge of the first plank. This helps the plank fit snugly against the wall. Use a utility knife to cut the tongue edge neatly.
Place the First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from the Wall
Put the first plank about 1⁄4 inch away from the wall. This gap lets the flooring expand with temperature and humidity changes. Use spacers to keep this gap consistent.
Put Spacers by the Walls for Expansion
Use spacers between the planks and walls to keep the 1/4-inch gap for expansion. These spacers help your flooring adjust properly.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Cut and Break Planks
To fit planks around corners, use a utility knife to cut along the line you want. Then, just snap the plank on the line to break it cleanly.
For Odd Shapes
For odd shapes like around doors, use a jigsaw or multi-tool. These tools cut precisely and handle tricky shapes. See how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe’s size and add an inch. Drill a hole in the plank that fits this size. Cut the plank to fit around the pipe, leaving a half-inch gap. Put in the plank and fix the cut piece with silicone caulk.
For Tight Spots Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw for tight spots, like under door jambs. The saw makes precise cuts close to the floor, helping planks fit well.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Slide the Tongue of the Plank into the Groove of the Last Row
To lay the next rows, slide the tongue of each plank into the groove of the last row. This locks the planks and makes a solid, smooth join.
Tap with a Tapping Block and Soft Hammer
For a snug fit, gently tap the planks into place using a tapping block and a soft hammer. Don’t use a regular hammer directly on the planks, as it might damage them.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying the planks, put transition strips at doorways and between rooms. This will make a smooth change and protect the floor edges. Follow the maker’s instructions for putting in the transition strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
When changing to another floor type, use a T-molding or reducer strip. Connect the transition strip to the subfloor, not the vinyl planks, for a secure finish.
Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the vinyl planks and the transition strip for movement and to avoid buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back, making sure they are attached to the wall, not the floor. This lets the floor move and adjust freely.
Allow the Floor to Acclimate for 48 Hours Before Use
Let the new floor sit for 48 hours before using it or putting furniture on it. This time helps the floor adapt to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Areas with Lots of Water
Vinyl plank flooring isn’t good for places with a lot of water, like bathrooms. Water can get into the seams and make the planks bend or peel.
Using a Rubber Mallet or Hammer on the Planks
Hitting the planks with a rubber mallet or hammer can harm them. Always use a tapping block to keep the planks safe during installation.
Don’t Overlap End Joints of Planks in Rows
Don’t overlap the end joints of planks in rows next to each other. Overlapping can weaken the floor and make it uneven.
Walking on the Floor Before It’s Ready
Avoid walking on the floor for 48 hours while it settles. This time is important for a lasting installation.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room right and figure out how much flooring you need. Add 10% more for cuts and waste.
- Check each plank before you start and throw away any damaged ones. This helps get a perfect look.
- Wear 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 nice.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Putting in vinyl plank flooring has different costs based on how you do it:
- Peel-and-stick: Usually costs $1.50 to $8 for each square foot.
- Glue-down: Price can be $2.50 to $12.50 per square foot.
- Floating/Interlocking: Normally $3 to $13 per square foot.
Labor costs change from $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the job’s difficulty.
Extra costs might be underlayment, $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, and transition strips and trim, $1 to $5 per linear foot, for a nice finish.
Do You Need Professional Help With Your Vinyl Flooring Installation Project?
Now that you know how to install vinyl plank flooring, you’re ready to make a strong and nice-looking floor. But if you want experts to do it, we can help.
Our flooring installation team takes care of everything — from getting the floor ready to putting the planks in the right place — so you can relax and enjoy perfect results. We’ll also assist you in picking the best vinyl flooring for your room, like luxury vinyl plank or tile.
Contact us today to book your free home visit and check if we work in your area.
