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 | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ |
We offer Luxury Vinyl, Laminate, and Tile flooring. Financing options are available, and you can visit our showroom.
Step 1: Prepare the Space
Take Off Baseboards and Old Flooring
Start by removing baseboards and any old flooring. This clears the area for the new vinyl planks.
Use a pry bar gently to take off the baseboards without harming the walls.
If you are taking out carpet, cut it into small pieces with a utility knife and lift it up. Follow the right steps for other flooring types.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Cracks or Uneven Spots
Thoroughly sweep and vacuum the subfloor to clear away all dirt and mess. Check for cracks or uneven spots.
Use a leveling compound to fill gaps or low areas, and sand down any high spots to make it even.
Add Underlayment for More Cushion and Quietness
Adding underlayment can make the floor softer and quieter, though it’s not always needed.
If you use underlayment, roll it out over the subfloor and stick it down with adhesive tape, making sure there are no gaps or overlaps.
Step 2: Pick a Pattern or Design
Vinyl flooring patterns offer many design choices to make your space look nice.
From traditional to modern, these patterns let you create unique and beautiful floors that match your home’s style.
Explore 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 are laid parallel to the walls, creating a clean, uniform look that suits any room, like bedrooms or living areas.
Diagonal Pattern
For a lively look, try a diagonal pattern. Planks are laid at a 45-degree angle, giving a sense of movement and depth. This can make small rooms look bigger and add drama to larger spaces.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is a classic choice. Planks are laid in a zigzag to create a V-shape. This pattern adds texture and elegance, perfect for entryways, kitchens, and dining rooms.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is stylish, with planks in a continuous zigzag. This adds a modern touch, ideal for contemporary spaces.
Parquet Pattern
Parquet patterns use planks in geometric shapes like squares or diamonds. These patterns can be simple or detailed, adding interest and elegance to floors. They are popular in formal living rooms, offices, and commercial spaces.
Mixed Patterns
Mixing different patterns in the same space can create a unique look. This allows you to design floors that show off your personal style.
For example, you can combine a straight lay pattern with a herringbone border or create a checkerboard pattern with different colors.
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
There are different ways to install vinyl plank flooring. Each way has its own benefits, depending on the type of vinyl flooring and your needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, also called peel-and-stick, is an easy installation method for vinyl plank flooring.
Each plank has a sticky back. You just peel off the film and stick the planks to the floor.
GripStrip works well with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), which is thicker and can handle the sticky back.
It might not work well with thinner types like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Sheet Vinyl.
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, also known as interlocking, uses planks with edges that click together for a tight bond.
This method doesn’t need glue and lets the floor “float” over the subfloor, adjusting to temperature and humidity changes.
Click-Lock works for both LVP and LVT flooring and some Sheet Vinyl.
Take Note:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper plank alignment and locking to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers along walls to keep the right expansion gap, letting the floor move without buckling.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down means putting adhesive on the subfloor and pressing the planks in place.
This method gives a strong, lasting bond, good for busy areas or commercial spots needing durability.
It offers a stable setup that handles heavy use and moisture.
Take Note:
- Pick a high-quality adhesive recommended for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small parts so the adhesive stays sticky during installation.
- Use a roller to press the planks into the adhesive for a good bond.
- Let the adhesive cure before using the floor or putting heavy items on it.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Trim the Short Edge of the First Plank
Start the first row by cutting off the short edge of the first plank. This helps it fit against the wall. Use a utility knife for a clean cut.
Place the First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from the Wall
Put the first plank about 1⁄4 inch from the wall. This gap allows the floor to expand with temperature and humidity changes. Use spacers to keep this gap.
Keep Spacers Along the Walls for Expansion
Put spacers between the planks and walls to keep the 1/4-inch gap. This ensures your flooring can expand properly.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Cut and Break Planks
To make planks fit in corners and edges, score the plank with a utility knife along the line you want to cut. Then, snap the plank along that line to break it cleanly.
For Odd Shapes
For odd shapes like around door frames or pipes, use a jigsaw or oscillating multi-tool. These tools make precise cuts and handle complex shapes. Learn 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 for the pipe, using this size. Cut the plank to fit around the pipe, leaving a half-inch gap for expansion. Install the plank and use silicone caulk to secure the cut piece.
For Tight Spots Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to cut planks for tight spots, like under door jambs. A jamb saw makes precise cuts close to the floor, so the planks fit neatly.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Put the Tongue of the Plank into the Groove of the Last Row
For the next rows, put each plank’s tongue into the groove of the last row. This locks the planks together and makes a strong, smooth connection.
Use a Tapping Block and Soft Hammer
To make sure they fit well, use a tapping block and soft hammer to gently tap the planks into place. Don’t use a regular hammer directly on the planks, as it may cause damage.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying all the planks, put in transition strips at doorways and between rooms. This helps with smooth transitions and protects the edges. Follow the maker’s instructions for putting in transition strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
When moving to another flooring type, use a T-molding or reducer strip. Attach 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. This gap allows for movement and prevents buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back in place, making sure they are attached to the wall, not the floor. This lets the floor expand and contract 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 helps the flooring get used to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Wet Areas
Vinyl plank flooring is not good for wet areas like bathrooms. Water can get into the seams and make the planks warp or peel.
Using Tools on the Planks
Hitting the planks with a rubber mallet or hammer can damage them. Always use a tapping block to keep the planks safe when installing.
End Joints in Rows
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in rows next to each other. Overlapping can weaken the floor and make it uneven.
Floor Acclimation Time
Do not walk on the floor for 48 hours after it’s installed. This time helps the floor settle for a long-lasting finish.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room carefully to know how much flooring you need. Include an extra 10% for cutting and waste.
- Check each plank before you start and remove any damaged ones. This keeps the floor looking perfect.
- Wear a knee pad for comfort while working. It protects your knees and makes the job easier.
- Go slowly and be careful to avoid mistakes. Taking your time helps achieve a good finish.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Putting in vinyl plank flooring includes different costs based on how you install it:
- Peel-and-stick: Usually costs $1.50 to $8 per square foot.
- Glue-down: Prices range from $2.50 to $12.50 per square foot.
- Floating/Interlocking: Costs are generally $3 to $13 per square foot.
Labor costs can be $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on how complex the job is.
You might also need to pay for underlayment, which is $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, and transition strips and trim, costing $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 lovely, strong floor. If you want experts to do it for you, we can help.
Our flooring installation team can do it all — from preparing the subfloor to placing each plank perfectly — so you can sit back and enjoy perfect results. We’ll also assist you in picking the best vinyl flooring for your area, whether it’s luxury vinyl plank, sheet vinyl, or tile.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home consultation and check if we serve your location.
