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 Flooring
Start by removing any baseboards and old flooring in your room. This clears the floor for new installation.
Use a pry bar to gently take off the baseboards, taking care not to harm the walls.
For carpet, cut it into smaller pieces with a utility knife and pull it up. Use the right method for other floor types.
Clean Subfloor and Fix Cracks or Uneven Spots
Sweep and vacuum the subfloor well to get rid of dirt and debris. Look for any cracks or uneven spots.
Use a leveling compound to fill gaps or low areas, and sand down high spots to make the surface even.
Add Underlayment for More Cushion and Quiet
Though not always needed, underlayment can give extra cushion and reduce noise, making the floor softer and quieter.
If you use underlayment, lay it out on the subfloor and secure it with adhesive tape, making sure there are no gaps or overlaps.
Step 2: Pick a Pattern or Design
Vinyl flooring patterns offer many design choices to make your space look better.
These patterns help you create special and beautiful floors that match your room’s style.
Check out some popular vinyl flooring patterns to see how they can improve your home.
Straight Lay Pattern
The straight lay pattern is a simple way to install vinyl flooring. The planks go in the same direction as the walls, giving a neat look that fits any room.
Diagonal Pattern
Try a diagonal pattern for a lively look. The planks are at a 45-degree angle to the walls, adding movement and depth. This pattern can make small rooms look bigger.
Herringbone Pattern
The herringbone pattern is a classic choice. The planks form a zigzag, making a V-shape. This pattern adds texture and elegance to any room.
Chevron Pattern
Chevron pattern is similar to herringbone but in a continuous zigzag. This pattern is modern and stylish, great for contemporary rooms.
Parquet Pattern
Step 3: Choose an Installation Method
There are different ways to install vinyl plank flooring. Each way has benefits, depending on the vinyl type and your needs.
GripStrip Method
GripStrip is easy and great for DIY. Each plank has sticky backing for simple installation.
GripStrip works well for Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, which is thicker and stronger.
It’s not the best choice for thinner vinyl like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Sheet Vinyl.
Click-Lock Method
Click-Lock uses planks with edges that snap together. No glue needed, and it “floats” over the floor.
It’s good for LVP, LVT, and some Sheet Vinyl.
Take Note:
- Follow instructions to align and lock planks correctly to avoid gaps.
- Use spacers to keep a gap along walls for floor movement.
Glue-Down Method
Glue-down involves glue on the floor, then press planks in place. It is strong and good for busy areas.
This method is durable for heavy use and wet areas.
Take Note:
- Use good glue for vinyl flooring.
- Work in small areas so glue stays sticky.
- Press planks with a roller for strong hold.
- Let glue dry before walking on it.
Step 4: Lay the First Row
Cut the First Plank’s Short Tongue Edge
Start the first row by cutting the short tongue edge of the first plank. This helps the plank fit well against the wall. Use a utility knife for a neat cut.
Place First Plank 1⁄4 Inch from Wall
Put the first plank about 1⁄4 inch from the wall. This space lets the floor expand with changes in temperature and humidity. Use spacers to keep this gap.
Use Spacers for Expansion
Put spacers between the planks and walls to keep the 1/4-inch gap. This gives the floor room to expand and shrink without bending.
Stagger Plank End Joints by 6 Inches
To make the floor look nice and strong, stagger the plank end joints in each row by at least 6 inches. This stops seams from lining up and looks more natural.
Step 5: Cutting Planks to Fit
Use a Utility Knife to Score and Snap Planks
To cut planks for corners and edges, use a utility knife to score the line where you want to cut. Then, snap the plank along that line for a neat break.
For Irregular Cuts
For tricky cuts, like around door frames or pipes, use a jigsaw or oscillating multi-tool. These tools help you make precise cuts for complex shapes. Learn how to use a jigsaw here.
Cutting Planks Around Pipes
Measure the pipe and add an inch to it. Drill a hole in the plank that size. Cut the plank to fit around the pipe, leaving a half-inch gap for expansion. Secure it with silicone caulk.
For Tight Spaces Like Under Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to cut planks for tight spots, like under door jambs. This saw makes precise cuts close to the floor so the planks fit well.
Step 6: Laying Subsequent Rows
Fit the Tongue of the Plank into the Groove of the Previous Row
To lay the next rows, fit each plank’s tongue into the groove of the last row. This connects the planks securely.
Use a Tapping Block and Soft Hammer
To make a snug fit, use a tapping block and soft hammer to gently tap the planks. Do not use a regular hammer directly on the planks to avoid damage.
Step 7: Finishing the Installation
Install Transition Strips
After laying down the planks, add transition strips at doorways and between rooms. This makes the floor smooth and protects the edges. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Transitioning to Other Flooring
Use a T-molding or reducer strip when moving to a different type of flooring. Secure the transition strip to the subfloor, not the vinyl planks, for a neat finish.
Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the vinyl and transition strip to allow movement and prevent buckling.
Reinstall Baseboards
Put the baseboards back on the wall, not on the floor. This allows the floor to move as needed without any barriers.
Allow the Floor to Acclimate for 48 Hours Before Use
Let the new floor settle for 48 hours before walking on it or putting furniture. This helps it adjust to the room’s conditions.
Common Things to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Floors
Areas with a Lot of 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 Tools Directly on the Planks
Do not use a rubber mallet or hammer directly on the planks. Use a tapping block to keep the planks safe during installation.
Avoid Overlapping End Joints
Do not overlap the end joints of planks in nearby rows. Overlapping can make the floor weak and uneven.
Walking on the Floor Before It Settles
Do not walk on the floor during the 48-hour settling time. This is important to make sure the floor lasts a long time.
Tips for a Successful Vinyl Flooring Installation
- First, measure the room right to know how much flooring is needed. Add 10% extra for cutting and waste.
- Check each plank before laying it down and discard any damaged ones. This keeps the floor looking great.
- Use a knee pad for comfort during installation. It protects your knees and makes the job easier.
- Take your time and be careful to prevent mistakes. Rushing can make it look less nice.
Installation Costs for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Installing vinyl plank flooring has various costs depending on how it’s done:
- Peel-and-stick: Usually $1.50 to $8 per square foot.
- Glue-down: Ranges 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 the complexity of the job.
Additional costs may include underlayment, costing $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, and transition strips and trim, at $1 to $5 per linear foot, for a clean finish.
Do You Need Professional Help With Your Vinyl Flooring Installation Project?
You’ve learned how to install vinyl plank flooring, so you’re ready to make a beautiful, long-lasting floor. But if you’d like experts to handle it, we’re here to assist.
Our flooring installation team manages everything — from preparing the subfloor to placing planks perfectly — so you can relax and enjoy perfect results. We’ll also assist you in picking the right vinyl flooring for your area, whether it’s luxury vinyl plank, sheet vinyl, or tile.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home consultation and check if we serve your area.
