Laying Vinyl Plank Flooring: The Complete Guide

Laying vinyl plank flooring is a great way to upgrade your home. It’s less expensive than hardwood, easier to install than tile, and comes in a variety of colors and styles. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty of vinyl plank flooring in any room of your home.

Preparing for Installation

Before you begin laying your vinyl plank flooring, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a measuring tape, a utility knife, a straightedge, a chalk line, and a hammer. You should also have a flooring installation kit that contains a tapping block, a pull bar, and a rubber mallet. You can buy these items online or at your local home improvement store.

Measuring and Cutting

Once you have all your tools and materials, it’s time to measure and cut your vinyl plank flooring. Start by measuring the width and length of the room. Then, divide the width and length measurements by the width of the planks you’re using. This will give you the number of planks you need for the entire room. Once you have the number of planks, you can use a straightedge and a utility knife to cut the planks to size.

Laying the Flooring

Now it’s time to start laying the flooring. Start at the corner of the room and work your way out. Make sure to lay the planks in the same direction as the longest wall in the room. When you come to the end of a row, use a tapping block and a rubber mallet to fit the planks together tightly. You can also use a pull bar to make sure the planks are flush.

Seaming the Planks

If the room is too large for one piece of vinyl plank flooring, you may need to seam the planks together. To do this, you will need a seam roller and a tube of vinyl adhesive. Start by applying a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the plank and then use the seam roller to spread it evenly. Place the two planks together and press firmly until the adhesive dries.

Finishing Touches

Once the planks are laid, it’s time to add the finishing touches. You can use a pencil and a chalk line to mark the edges of the planks. This will give the room a neat, professional look. You can also use a hammer and a nail punch to add decorative trim around the edges of the room. This will give your room a finished, polished look.

Caring for Your Vinyl Plank Flooring

To keep your vinyl plank flooring looking its best, you should regularly sweep and mop it. You can also use a damp cloth to spot clean any spills or stains. To prevent damage, you should avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals on your vinyl plank flooring. With regular care and maintenance, your vinyl plank flooring will look beautiful for years to come.