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 Out Baseboards and Old Flooring
Start by removing the baseboards and old flooring in your room. This clears the area for new vinyl plank flooring.
Gently use a pry bar to remove the baseboards without harming the walls.
If dealing with carpet, cut it into smaller pieces with a utility knife and pull 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 all dirt. Look for cracks or uneven spots.
Use a leveling compound to fill gaps or low areas and sand down any high spots to make the surface even.
Add Underlayment for More Cushion and Quietness
Adding underlayment is optional but can make your floor softer and quieter.
If you decide to use it, unroll the underlayment 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 design choices to make your space look better.
These patterns help create special and beautiful floors that match your home style.
Let’s look at some popular vinyl flooring patterns and see how they can improve your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is the simplest way for vinyl flooring. The planks line up straight, moving in the same way as the walls. This gives a neat, even look that fits any room, from bedrooms to living areas.
Diagonal Pattern
Try a diagonal pattern for a lively and interesting look. The planks sit at a 45-degree angle to the walls, adding movement and depth. Diagonal patterns can make small rooms seem bigger and add drama to large spaces.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is a classic choice for vinyl flooring. The planks form a zigzag, creating a V-shape. Herringbone patterns bring texture and elegance to any room, often chosen for entryways, kitchens, and dining rooms.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is another stylish choice, similar to herringbone. The planks create a continuous zigzag. Chevron patterns offer a modern and chic look, perfect for contemporary spaces.
Parquet Pattern
Parquet patterns are detailed designs made by arranging planks in shapes like squares, rectangles, or diamonds. They can be simple or complex based on the effect you want.
Parquet patterns add interest and elegance to floors, popular for formal living rooms, offices, and commercial areas.
Mixed Patterns
Mixing vinyl flooring patterns in one space can create a unique look. Mixing patterns lets you design spaces that show your personal 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 floors. Each way has its own benefits, depending on the vinyl type and your installation needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, also called peel-and-stick, is an easy DIY installation method for vinyl planks.
With GripStrip, each plank has sticky backing, so you peel off the film and stick the planks to the floor.
This works best for Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, which is thicker and more rigid for the adhesive.
It might not work well for thinner or more flexible vinyl like Sheet Vinyl.
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, or interlocking, uses planks with tongue-and-groove edges that snap together tightly.
This doesn’t need glue and lets the floor “float” over the base, moving with temperature and humidity changes.
Click-Lock works for both LVP and some Sheet Vinyl.
Take Note:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for plank alignment and locking to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers along walls for the expansion gap, so the floor can move without buckling.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down involves applying adhesive to the floor and pressing the vinyl planks in place.
This method is strong and good for busy areas or commercial spaces needing durability.
It gives a stable installation that handles heavy traffic and moisture.
Take Note:
- Pick a high-quality adhesive for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas to keep the adhesive sticky during installation.
- Use a roller to press planks into the adhesive for proper bonding.
- Let the adhesive cure before walking on the floor or adding heavy items.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Trim the Short End of the First Plank
Begin the first row by trimming the short end of the first plank. This allows the plank to sit smoothly against the wall. Use a utility knife to trim along the edge.
Position the First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from the Wall
Place the first plank about 1⁄4 inch away from the wall. This space allows the floor to expand with temperature and humidity changes. Use spacers to maintain this gap.
Utilize Spacers for Expansion
Insert spacers between the planks and walls to keep the 1/4-inch gap. These spacers help the floor adjust properly.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Cut Planks
For cutting planks to fit corners and edges, score the plank with a utility knife along the line you want to cut. After scoring, snap the plank along that line for a clean break.
For Curved Cuts
Use a jigsaw or oscillating multi-tool for curved cuts, like around door frames or pipes. These tools make precise cuts and handle more complex shapes. Learn how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe’s diameter and add an inch to this size. Drill a hole in the plank that matches this measurement. 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 Spaces Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to fit planks in tight spots, like under door jambs. A jamb saw makes precise cuts close to the floor, allowing the planks to slide in place easily.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Slide the Tongue of the Plank into the Groove of the Last Row
To put in more rows, slide each plank’s tongue into the groove of the last row. This will connect the planks securely and smoothly.
Use a Tapping Block and Soft Hammer
For a snug fit, use a tapping block and soft hammer to gently tap the planks into position. Don’t 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, add transition strips at doorways and between rooms. This makes the floor edges smooth and safe. Follow the instructions from the maker to put in the transition strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
When changing to another flooring 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 to allow movement and avoid buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put back the baseboards, making sure they are attached to the wall, not the floor. This allows the flooring to move without any problems.
Allow the Floor to Acclimate for 48 Hours Before Use
Let the new floor sit for 48 hours before using it or adding furniture. 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 bend or peel.
Using Tools on the Planks
Do not use a rubber mallet or hammer directly on the planks. Always use a tapping block to keep the planks safe during installation.
End Joints in Rows
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in nearby rows. Overlapping joints can make the floor weak and uneven.
Walking on New Floors
Avoid walking on the floor during the 48-hour settling period. This time is important for the floor to settle and last a long time.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room accurately and figure out how much flooring you need. Add an extra 10% for cutting and waste.
- Check each plank before you start and throw away any that are damaged. This helps make it look perfect.
- Wear a knee pad for comfort when installing. It will protect your knees and make the job easier.
- Take your time and be careful to avoid errors. Rushing can cause mistakes and a less professional finish.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Installing vinyl plank flooring has different costs based on the method:
- 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 $3 to $13 per square foot.
Labor costs are $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on installation difficulty.
Extra costs may include underlayment at $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 on your way to making a lovely, strong floor. But if you’d rather have experts do it, we can help.
Our flooring installation team takes care of everything — from getting the subfloor ready to placing each plank just right — so you can sit back and enjoy perfect results. We’ll also assist you in picking the right vinyl flooring for your space, like luxury vinyl plank or sheet vinyl.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home consultation and find out if we serve your area.
