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 Away Baseboards and Old Floor
Start by removing any baseboards and old floor materials to prepare the room for vinyl plank flooring. This will leave you with a clean base to begin.
Use a pry bar gently to take off the baseboards without harming the walls.
If pulling up carpet, cut it into smaller pieces with a utility knife and lift it. Follow the right steps to remove other types of flooring.
Clean the Subfloor and Fix Cracks or Uneven Spots
Thoroughly sweep and vacuum the subfloor to get rid of all dirt and bits. Check for any cracks or uneven spots on the surface.
Fill any gaps or low spots with a leveling compound, and sand down high spots for a smooth surface.
Add Underlayment for More Cushion and Quietness
Adding an underlayment isn’t always needed, but it can give extra cushion and reduce noise, making the floor more comfy and quiet.
If you decide to use underlayment, roll 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 patterns offer many design choices to improve your space’s look.
From classic to modern, these patterns help create unique and beautiful floors that match your décor.
Explore popular vinyl flooring patterns to enhance your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is simple for vinyl flooring. The planks are laid parallel to the walls, creating a clean look that suits any room.
Diagonal Pattern
For a lively look, try a diagonal pattern. Planks are laid at a 45-degree angle, adding movement and depth. This can make small rooms look bigger and give 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, great for entryways and kitchens.
Chevron Pattern
The chevron pattern is another stylish option. Planks are laid in a continuous zigzag. Chevron adds a modern touch, perfect for contemporary spaces.
Parquet Pattern
Parquet patterns use vinyl planks in geometric shapes like squares or diamonds. These patterns add interest and are great for formal rooms and offices.
Mixed Patterns
Mixing different patterns in the same space can create a unique look. Combine styles for custom designs that show your personal style, like a straight lay with a herringbone border.
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 and your needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip, or peel-and-stick, is an easy method for installing vinyl plank flooring.
With GripStrip, each plank has a sticky back. You peel off the film and stick the plank to the floor.
This works well with thick Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, which handles the stickiness well.
It might not be good for thin or flexible vinyl like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Sheet Vinyl.
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock, or interlocking, uses planks with edges that click together tightly.
This way doesn’t need glue and lets the floor “float” over the subfloor, changing with temperature and humidity.
Click-Lock works for both LVP and LVT flooring and some Sheet Vinyl.
Take Note:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid gaps or uneven seams.
- Use spacers along walls to keep an expansion gap, letting the floor move freely.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down uses adhesive on the subfloor to stick the vinyl planks.
This gives a strong hold, ideal for busy areas or commercial spaces needing durability.
It provides stable installation that handles heavy traffic and moisture.
Take Note:
- Pick a high-quality adhesive for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas so the adhesive stays tacky.
- Use a roller to press the planks into the adhesive for a firm bond.
- Let the adhesive cure before walking on the floor or placing heavy items.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Cut Off the Short Tongue Edge of the First Plank
To begin the first row, cut the short tongue edge of the first plank. This helps it sit flat against the wall. Use a utility knife for a clean cut along the tongue edge.
Place the First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from the Wall
Put the first plank about 1⁄4 inch from the wall. This gap lets the floor expand with temperature and humidity changes. Use spacers along the wall to keep this gap.
Use Spacers to Keep Expansion Gap
Put spacers between the planks and the walls to keep a 1/4-inch gap for expansion. These spacers help your floor adjust.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Cut and Break Planks
To cut planks for corners and edges, use a utility knife to mark the cut line. After marking, just break the plank along the line for a clean split.
For Odd Shapes
A jigsaw or multi-tool works better for odd shapes, like around doors or pipes. These tools make exact cuts and handle tricky 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 size plus the extra inch. Then, cut the plank to fit around the pipe, leaving a half-inch gap. Install the plank and seal the cut with silicone caulk.
For Small Spots Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to cut planks for small spots, like under door jambs. A jamb saw makes exact cuts close to the floor, so the planks fit neatly.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Place the Plank’s Tongue into the Groove of the Last Row
For the next rows, tilt each plank’s tongue into the groove of the last row. This locks them together securely.
Tap with a Block and Soft Hammer
For a snug fit, gently tap the planks with a block and soft hammer. Don’t use a regular hammer on the planks, as it might damage them.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying all the planks, put transition strips at doorways and between rooms for a smooth change and to protect floor edges. Follow the maker’s steps for installing transition strips.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
Use a T-molding or reducer strip when moving to another floor type. Attach the strip to the subfloor, not the vinyl planks, for a secure and neat finish.
Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the planks and the strip for movement and to stop buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back, making sure they are fixed 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 floor adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Areas with Too Much Moisture
Vinyl plank flooring is not good for places with too much moisture, like bathrooms. Water can get into the seams and make the planks bend or peel.
Using Tools Directly 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.
Avoid Overlapping End Joints
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in adjacent rows. Overlapping can make the floor weak and uneven.
Do Not Walk During Acclimation
Stay off the floor during the 48-hour acclimation time. This period is important for the floor to settle and last longer.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- Before starting, measure the room and figure out how much flooring you need. Add an extra 10% for cuts and waste.
- Check each plank before you install it and throw away any damaged ones. This will help make it look perfect.
- Use a knee pad to stay comfortable while working. It protects your knees and helps you feel better while you work.
- Go slowly and be careful to avoid mistakes. Rushing can cause errors and make it look less professional.
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: Costs are between $3 and $13 per square foot.
Labor costs range from $1 to $3 per square foot depending on installation complexity.
Extra costs might include underlayment for $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 strong, nice-looking floor. But if you want experts to do it, we’re here to help.
Our flooring installation team takes care of everything — from getting the subfloor ready to placing each plank perfectly — so you can relax and enjoy perfect results. We’ll also help you pick the right vinyl flooring for your place, like luxury vinyl plank or sheet vinyl.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home consultation and check if we serve your area.
