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
To prepare your room for new vinyl flooring, take off the baseboards and old flooring. This gives a clean area to start.
Use a pry bar to gently remove the baseboards without damaging the walls.
For carpet, cut it into pieces with a utility knife and pull it up. Use the right method for other types of floors.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Cracks or Uneven Spots
Sweep and vacuum the subfloor well to remove all dirt and debris. Check for cracks or uneven areas.
Fill any gaps or low spots with a leveling compound, and sand down high spots to make it smooth.
Add Underlayment for Comfort and Quiet
Underlayment is optional but can make the floor more comfy and quieter.
If you use underlayment, roll it over the subfloor and tape it down, ensuring no gaps or overlaps.
Step 2: Pick a Pattern or Design
Vinyl flooring styles give lots of design options for a nice look.
These styles can be easy or modern, helping you make floors that match your home’s vibe.
Here are some popular vinyl flooring styles to enhance your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is the easiest way to put down vinyl flooring. The planks run parallel to the walls, giving a tidy look that suits any room.
Diagonal Pattern
Use a diagonal pattern for a fun look. Planks are set at an angle, making rooms seem larger and adding energy to the space.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is timeless and classy. Planks make a zigzag pattern, adding texture and style to spaces like hallways or kitchens.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is a trendy choice. Planks create a continuous zigzag, offering a modern look perfect for contemporary areas.
Parquet Pattern
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
You can lay vinyl plank flooring in several ways. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks based on the vinyl type and what you need.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, or peel-and-stick, is simple for DIY work.
Each plank has a sticky side. Just peel the cover and stick the plank down.
This is good for Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) because it is thick and strong.
It may not suit thinner vinyl like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT).
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, or interlocking, uses planks with snapping edges.
No glue is needed, so the floor can “float” and adjust to changes.
This method works for both LVP and LVT.
Take Note:
- Follow instructions for proper plank alignment to avoid gaps.
- Use spacers to maintain an expansion gap along walls.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down uses glue on the floor, then pressing planks on top.
This method is strong and great for busy areas.
It makes a stable floor that handles heavy use and moisture well.
Take Note:
- Choose a good glue made for vinyl floors.
- Work in small sections to keep the glue sticky.
- Press planks down firmly with a roller for strong bonding.
- Let the glue dry fully before using the floor.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Trim the First Plank’s Short Tongue Edge
Start the first row by trimming off the short tongue edge of the first plank. This helps it sit against the wall. Smoothly cut along the tongue edge with a utility knife.
Position the First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from the Wall
Place the first plank around 1⁄4 inch away from the wall. This gap lets the flooring expand with temperature and humidity changes. Use spacers to maintain this gap along the wall.
Use Spacers for Gap
Put spacers between the planks and walls to keep the 1/4-inch gap. This ensures your floor can expand and shrink without bending.
Stagger Plank Joints by 6 Inches
For a stable and nice floor, stagger the plank end joints by at least 6 inches in each row. This prevents seams from aligning, creating a random pattern.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Score and Snap Planks
To cut planks around corners, score the line with a utility knife, then snap for a clean edge.
For Irregular Cuts
For tricky shapes, like around door frames, use a jigsaw or oscillating tool for precise cuts. Learn how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe, add an inch, drill a hole in the plank, cut for the pipe, and leave a half-inch gap. Seal with silicone caulk.
For Tight Spaces Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw for tight spots like under door jambs. It cuts close to the floor for a neat fit.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Slide the Plank’s Tongue into the Groove
To lay more rows, slide each plank’s tongue into the groove of the previous one. This helps them hold together well.
Tap with a Block and Soft Hammer
To make them fit tight, use a block and a soft hammer to gently tap the planks. Avoid using a regular hammer directly to prevent damage.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying all the planks, put transition strips at doorways and room edges. This keeps the edges safe and makes the change smooth. Follow the maker’s instructions for the transition strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
For different floors, use a T-molding or reducer strip. Fix it to the subfloor, not the vinyl planks, for strong results.
Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the vinyl planks and the strip to let the floor move and prevent buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back, attaching them to the wall, not the floor. This allows the floor to 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. This helps the floor get used to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Wet Areas
Vinyl plank floors are not good for wet areas, like bathrooms. Water can get into the seams and damage the planks.
Using a Rubber Mallet or Hammer
Using a rubber mallet or hammer can damage the planks. Use a tapping block to protect them when installing.
End Joints of Planks
Do not overlap the end joints of planks next to each other. This makes the floor weak and uneven.
Walking on the Floor Too Soon
Wait 48 hours before walking on the floor to let it settle. This helps the floor last longer.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room exactly to know how much flooring you need. Add 10% more for any errors and waste.
- Check each plank before installing and throw away any damaged ones. This ensures a perfect look.
- Wear a knee pad for comfort during installation. It protects your knees and makes work easier.
- Take your time and be careful to prevent mistakes. Going slowly gives a better finish.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
The cost of installing vinyl plank flooring varies by method:
- Peel-and-stick: Costs between $1.50 and $8 per square foot.
- Glue-down: Ranges from $2.50 to $12.50 per square foot.
- Floating/Interlocking: Costs $3 to $13 per square foot.
Labor costs range from $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the installation’s complexity.
Additional costs may include underlayment priced at $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, with transition strips and trim ranging from $1 to $5 per linear foot for a polished 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 have a strong, nice-looking floor. If you’d like experts to handle it, we can help.
Our flooring installation team takes care of everything — from getting the subfloor ready to placing the planks just right — so you can sit back and enjoy perfect results. We also assist in picking the best vinyl flooring for your area, like luxury vinyl plank or sheet vinyl.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home visit and check if we cover your location.
