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
Start by taking off the old baseboards and flooring to have a clear floor to work on.
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 remove it. For other flooring types, follow their specific removal steps.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Cracks or Uneven Spots
Thoroughly sweep and vacuum the subfloor to get rid of all dirt and debris. Check for cracks or uneven spots.
Use a leveling compound to fill any gaps or low areas, and sand down high areas for a smooth surface.
Add Underlayment for More Cushion and Quietness
While not always needed, adding underlayment can make your floor softer and quieter.
If you decide to use underlayment, roll it out over the subfloor and secure it with tape, ensuring there are no gaps or overlaps.
Step 2: Pick a Pattern or Design
Vinyl flooring installation patterns offer various design choices to enhance your space’s look.
From classic to modern, these patterns let you create unique and beautiful floors that match your décor.
Explore some popular vinyl flooring patterns and see how they can improve your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is simple for vinyl flooring. Planks are laid parallel, in the same direction as the walls, creating a clean and uniform look in any room.
Diagonal Pattern
For a more interesting look, try a diagonal pattern. Planks are laid at a 45-degree angle, adding movement and depth. This pattern 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, creating a V-shape. This pattern adds texture and style, making it popular for entryways, kitchens, and dining rooms.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is stylish, with planks laid in a continuous zigzag. It adds a modern touch, perfect for contemporary spaces.
Parquet Pattern
Parquet patterns use geometric shapes like squares or diamonds. These patterns add interest and sophistication, great for formal living rooms and offices.
Mixed Patterns
Mixing different vinyl patterns can create a custom look that shows your style. For example, combine a straight lay with a herringbone border or use contrasting colors for a checkerboard effect.
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
There are different ways to install vinyl plank flooring. Each way has its own benefits and things to consider, based on the vinyl type and your needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, called peel-and-stick too, is easy for DIY installation of vinyl plank flooring.
With GripStrip, each plank has a sticky back. You peel off the cover and stick the plank to the floor.
GripStrip works best with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, which is thicker and stronger.
It’s not ideal for thinner vinyl like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Sheet Vinyl.
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, also called interlocking, uses planks with edges that click together.
This way doesn’t need glue and lets the floor “float” over the subfloor, adjusting to temperature changes.
Click-Lock works for LVP, LVT, and some Sheet Vinyl.
Take Note:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers by the walls for an expansion gap, so the floor can move without issues.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down installation means putting glue on the floor and pressing the planks down.
This way is strong and good for busy areas or where durability is key.
It provides a stable floor that handles heavy use and moisture.
Take Note:
- Pick a glue made for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas to keep the glue sticky.
- Use a roller to press the planks firmly into the glue.
- Let the glue dry before walking on the floor or placing heavy items.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Cut the Short Edge of the First Plank
To start, cut the short edge of the first plank. This helps the plank 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 with expansion due to temperature and humidity. 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 expand.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Score and Snap Planks
To fit planks around corners and edges, use a utility knife to cut along the line you want. Then, snap the plank on that line for a neat break.
For Irregular Cuts
Use a jigsaw or multi-tool for tricky cuts, like around door frames or pipes. These tools make precise cuts and can handle odd shapes. Learn how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe’s size and add one inch. Drill a hole in the plank to fit around the pipe with that size. Leave a half-inch gap for expansion. Install the plank and seal it with silicone caulk.
For Tight Spaces Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to fit planks in tight spots, like under door jambs. This tool makes precise cuts close to the floor, so planks slide in easily.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Fit the Tongue of the Plank into the Groove of the Last Row
To put down the next rows, fit each plank’s tongue into the groove of the last row. This locks them together, making a strong connection.
Tap with a Tapping Block and Soft Hammer
For a snug fit, gently tap the planks using a tapping block and soft hammer. Don’t use a regular hammer directly on the planks as it can harm them.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After all planks are in place, put transition strips at doorways and between rooms. This helps with smooth transitions and protects floor edges. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer for installing these strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
To move to a different floor type, use a T-molding or reducer strip. Attach the 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. This gap allows for movement and prevents buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back and secure them to the wall, not the floor. This allows the floor to expand and contract easily.
Allow the Floor to Acclimate for 48 Hours Before Use
Let the new floor adjust for 48 hours before walking on it or adding furniture. This helps the floor get used to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Areas with Excessive Moisture
Vinyl plank flooring is not good for places with a lot of moisture, like bathrooms. Water can get into the seams and make the planks warp or peel.
Using a Rubber Mallet or Hammer Directly on the Planks
Hitting the planks directly with a rubber mallet or hammer can damage them. Always use a tapping block to keep the planks safe during installation.
Don’t Overlap the End Joints of the Planks in Adjacent Rows
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in rows next to each other. Overlapping can make the floor weak and uneven.
Walking on the Floor During the Acclimation Period
Stay off the floor for 48 hours during the acclimation period. This time helps the floor settle and ensures it lasts a long time.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room carefully and figure out how much flooring you need. Add 10% more for cutting and waste.
- Check each plank before you install it and get rid of any damaged ones. This makes sure it looks great in the end.
- Wear a knee pad while working to protect your knees and stay comfortable.
- Go slow and be careful to avoid mistakes. Hurrying can cause errors and a less nice finish.
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 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 range from $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on how hard it is to install.
You may also need to pay for underlayment, which is $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, and transition strips and trim, which cost $1 to $5 per linear foot for a nice finish.
Do You Need Professional Help With Your Vinyl Flooring Installation Project?
After learning how to install vinyl plank flooring, you’re ready to create a nice, strong floor. If you want help, our team is here for you.
Our flooring installation team handles everything — from getting the subfloor ready to placing planks just right — so you can relax and see great results. We’ll help you pick the best vinyl flooring for your space, like luxury vinyl plank, sheet vinyl, or tile.
Contact us today to book your free in-home consultation and check if we serve your area.
