How Flat Does Floor Need To Be For Vinyl Plank?

When it comes to installing vinyl plank flooring, having a flat surface is essential. This is why many people ask, “How flat does the floor need to be for vinyl plank?” The answer is that it depends on the type of vinyl plank flooring you are using. Here, we’ll explore the different requirements for different types of vinyl plank flooring and discuss the best practices for preparing and laying down vinyl plank flooring.

Different Types Of Vinyl Plank Flooring

When it comes to vinyl plank flooring, there are two main types: glue-down vinyl plank flooring and click-together vinyl plank flooring. Each type of vinyl plank flooring has its own set of requirements when it comes to floor preparation.

Glue-Down Vinyl Plank Flooring Requirements

For glue-down vinyl plank flooring, the floor must be level to within 1/8th of an inch over a 10-foot span. If the floor is not level, you will need to use a self-leveling compound to make sure the floor is even before laying down the vinyl plank flooring.

Click-Together Vinyl Plank Flooring Requirements

For click-together vinyl plank flooring, the floor must be level to within 1/16th of an inch over a 10-foot span. Since click-together vinyl plank flooring is designed to interlock, any imperfections in the flooring can cause the planks to not fit together properly and can lead to gaps or buckling.

Preparing The Floor For Vinyl Plank Flooring

Before laying down any vinyl plank flooring, it is important to make sure the floor is properly prepared. This means making sure the floor is clean, dry, and free of any dirt or debris. It is also a good idea to inspect the floor for any cracks or other damage that may need to be repaired before laying down the vinyl plank flooring.

Laying Down The Vinyl Plank Flooring

Once the floor is properly prepared and level, it is time to begin laying down the vinyl plank flooring. For glue-down vinyl plank flooring, you will need to apply adhesive to the back of each plank and press it firmly into place. For click-together vinyl plank flooring, you will need to make sure each plank is properly aligned before pressing it into place.

Conclusion

When it comes to laying down vinyl plank flooring, the first step is making sure the floor is level. For glue-down vinyl plank flooring, the floor must be level to within 1/8th of an inch over a 10-foot span. For click-together vinyl plank flooring, the floor must be level to within 1/16th of an inch over a 10-foot span. Once the floor is level, you can begin laying down the vinyl plank flooring.