Prepare For Installation
Prepare you home for installation by removing all of the furniture and fixtures that may get in the way of your LVP installation. Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring comes with different locking systems so please read manufactures recommendations prior to installation for correct locking method technique. Vinyl plank flooring can be installed over existing flooring such as tile, hardwood, and laminate, or it can be installed directly on concrete. LVP needs a level surface and all cracks and uneven surfaces must be addressed and leveled prior to LVP installation. A floor leveler will help you find if your flooring surface is level. The flooring prep is crucial to installing LVP correctly.
Upon receiving your Vinyl Plank Flooring read the manufacture guide for acclimation requirements as some products will need to sit in your home prior to installation.
Installation Tools
Floor Level
Power Saw (Laminate Cutter)
Table Saw
Crowbar/Pull Bar
Tape Measure
Square Tool
Mallet
Material
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Aquabar/Underlayment (Some products have it installed)
1) Remove flooring and prep your foundation if you have any uneven spots. If you are installing your LVP flooring over existing flooring make sure there are no uneven spots and patch all areas accordingly. LVP flooring requires a flat surface for installation. Self leveling dries quickly so if you have to do repairs you will need to mix and apply quickly. Make sure you vacuum and sweep and leave no debris on your floor prior to installation. Once the floor is prepped, dry, and level you will use a chalk line to create a starting point.
2) Create a 5/16" expansion gap from the end of each wall that is your starting point. Once you have marked this with the chalk line you can move onto measuring and calculating the width of your final row. This is only necessary if you are looking to have the same width on the starting and finishing rows. (Be aware that not all walls are even and this is why creating a starting point is important.)
3) Starting your first row correctly will help in providing a solid starting point and is crucial to having a successful installation. You can remove the tongue on your 1st row and place the vinyl plank boards along your marked line. You may use spacers in assisting you with this part as planks will move while you are installing and this is why it's very important to have a starting point marked correctly.
4) Follow the installation by installing the next plank to the side of the previous. Make sure you lock it into place (some require a mallet to lock in but most can be locked in by hand easily). Continue to the next rows and create off-setting starting vinyl plank pieces to provide varied plank look. You will get a staircase look if you are using the same sizes in repeating rows. To fit the final piece at the end of the row you will use a power saw/laminate cutter/utility knife.
5) Continue your installation throughout and keep variable sizes throughout. When working in the kitchen or other areas you will have the option to put transitions and trim pieces in place around cabinets and other areas. You will need to nail the trim pieces into the wall and glue the transition pieces in into the floor.
6) Once your project is complete go back and touch up any areas you need by using caulk or putty for nail holes. Clean the floor thoroughly and prepare to bring your furniture back into your home. While vinyl plank flooring is durable you should take precautions to protect your flooring by putting felt pads on the bottom of all of your chairs, tables, and anything that may be dragged across causing damage to your LVP.