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
Remove Baseboards and Old Flooring
Start by taking out the baseboards and old flooring in your room for vinyl plank flooring. This will make your floor clear and ready.
Use a pry bar to gently take off the baseboards without harming the walls.
If you have carpet, cut it into smaller pieces with a utility knife and pull it up. For other floor types, remove them following the right steps.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Any Cracks or Uneven Spots
Thoroughly sweep and vacuum the subfloor to get rid of all dirt. Check for cracks or uneven spots.
Use a leveling compound to fill gaps or low areas, and sand any high spots to make it even.
Add Underlayment for Cushion and Soundproofing
Adding underlayment can make the floor softer and quieter.
If you decide to use underlayment, unroll it over the subfloor and stick it down with tape, making sure there are no gaps or overlaps.
Step 2: Pick a Pattern or Design
Vinyl flooring designs offer many ways to make your space look better.
From classic to modern, these designs help you create special floors that match your home decor.
Check out some popular vinyl flooring patterns to see how they can improve your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is simple for vinyl flooring. The planks go the same way as the walls, giving a clean look that fits any room, like bedrooms or living rooms.
Diagonal Pattern
Try a diagonal pattern for vinyl flooring to make it more interesting. Planks are laid at a 45-degree angle, adding depth and movement. This can make small rooms look bigger and add style to larger spaces.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is a classic choice for vinyl flooring. Planks form a zigzag, creating a V-shape. This pattern adds texture and style to any room, making it great for entryways, kitchens, and dining areas.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is another stylish vinyl flooring option. Planks form a continuous zigzag, adding a modern touch to any space, perfect for contemporary homes.
Parquet Pattern
Parquet patterns use vinyl planks to form geometric shapes like squares or diamonds. These patterns add visual interest and elegance, making them popular for formal living rooms and offices.
Mixed Patterns
Mixing different vinyl flooring patterns in one space lets you create a unique look. You can blend styles to match your personal taste, like combining a straight lay with a herringbone border.
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
There are different ways to install vinyl plank flooring. Each has its own benefits and things to think about, depending on the type of vinyl and your installation needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, also called peel-and-stick, is an easy and DIY-friendly way to install vinyl plank flooring.
With GripStrip, each plank has a sticky back. You just peel off the film and stick the planks to the floor.
This works best with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, which is thicker and more rigid.
It might not be good for thinner vinyl 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 secure fit.
This method doesn’t need glue and lets the floor “float” over the subfloor, adjusting to temperature and humidity changes.
It’s good for LVP and LVT flooring and some Sheet Vinyl types.
Take Note:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers to keep an expansion gap along the walls, letting the floor move without problems.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down installation uses adhesive on the subfloor, then pressing the planks into place.
This gives a strong, lasting bond, good for busy areas or commercial spaces.
It provides a stable installation that handles heavy foot traffic and moisture.
Take Note:
- Use a high-quality adhesive made for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas so the adhesive stays tacky.
- Use a rolling pin or roller to press the planks firmly into the adhesive.
- Let the adhesive cure before walking on the floor or placing heavy items.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Trim the Short Edge of the First Plank
Start by cutting off the short edge of the first plank. This lets 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 helps the floor expand with temperature and humidity changes. Use spacers to keep this gap.
Use Spacers for Expansion
Put spacers between the planks and walls to keep a 1/4-inch gap. This ensures your flooring can adjust properly.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Cut and Snap Planks
To fit planks around corners and edges, use a utility knife to cut a line on the plank. After cutting, just snap the plank along the line for a clean break.
For Curved Cuts
A jigsaw or oscillating tool works better for curved cuts, like around doorframes or pipes. These tools make precise cuts and can handle tricky shapes. Learn how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe’s width and add an inch. Drill a hole in the plank matching this size. Cut the plank to fit around the pipe, leaving a half-inch gap. 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, helping the planks fit neatly.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Connect the Plank Tongue to the Groove of the Last Row
To put down the next rows, tilt each plank’s tongue into the groove of the last row. This will join the planks firmly and smoothly.
Use a Tapping Block and Soft Hammer
For a snug fit, use a tapping block and a soft hammer to gently tap the planks in place. Do not use a regular hammer directly on the planks, as it might harm them.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying all the planks, put transition strips at doorways and between rooms. This will make a smooth change and protect floor edges. Follow the maker’s instructions to install them.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
When switching to a different floor type, use a T-molding or reducer strip. Secure the transition strip to the subfloor, not the vinyl planks, for a strong and neat finish.
Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the vinyl planks and the transition strip for movement. This helps prevent buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back, attaching them to the wall, not the floor. This way, the flooring can expand and contract freely.
Let the Floor Acclimate for 48 Hours Before Use
Let the new floor sit for 48 hours before using it or adding furniture. This helps the floor adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Areas with Lots of Water
Vinyl plank flooring is not good for places with a lot of water, like bathrooms. Water can get into the seams and make the planks bend or come off.
Using Tools Directly on the Planks
Using a rubber mallet or hammer right on the planks can harm them. Always use a tapping block to keep the planks safe during installation.
Don’t Overlap Plank Joints in Nearby Rows
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in nearby rows. Overlapping joints can make the floor weaker and uneven.
Walking on the Floor Before It’s Ready
Do not walk on the floor during the 48-hour settling time. This period is important for making sure the floor lasts long.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room carefully to know how much flooring you need. Add 10% more for cuts and waste.
- Check each plank before you install it and remove any that are damaged. This helps your floor look perfect.
- Wear a knee pad to stay comfortable while working. This protects your knees and makes the installation easier.
- Be patient and work slowly to avoid mistakes. Taking your time gives a better finish.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Installing vinyl plank flooring has different costs based on the method used:
- 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: Typically between $3 and $13 per square foot.
Labor costs vary from $1 to $3 per square foot depending on how complex the installation is.
Other costs may include 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 neat 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 beautiful, strong floor. But if you want experts to do it, we can help.
Our flooring installation team can do everything — from getting the subfloor ready to placing the planks just right — so you can relax and enjoy perfect results. We’ll also help you pick the best vinyl flooring for your place, like luxury vinyl plank, sheet vinyl, or tile.
Contact us today to book your free in-home talk and see if we work in your area.
