Installing luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great way to add a beautiful, long-lasting, and durable floor to your home. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is available in a wide range of colors and styles, making it easy to create a custom look that fits your décor. Plus, LVP is easy to install and maintain, making it a great choice for DIYers and professional installers alike. In this guide, we’ll go over the basics of installing LVP flooring, so you can get the job done right.
Types of Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
There are three main types of LVP flooring: click-lock, glue-down, and floating. Click-lock LVP is the easiest to install and requires no adhesive or underlayment, making it a great choice for DIYers. Glue-down LVP requires an adhesive to be applied to the subfloor before installation, and is typically used in commercial applications. Floating LVP uses a locking system to fit together and does not require any adhesive or underlayment. It is the most popular type of LVP and is often used in residential applications.
Preparing to Install Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Before you can install your LVP flooring, you’ll need to prepare the subfloor. Start by inspecting the subfloor for any damage, such as cracks, holes, or uneven surfaces. If you find any damage, repair it before continuing. Next, you’ll need to make sure the subfloor is clean and dry. If there is any moisture, use a dehumidifier to help dry the area. Once the subfloor is ready, you can begin installing the LVP.
Installing Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Once the subfloor is prepared, you are ready to install the LVP. If you are using click-lock LVP, you’ll need to start by laying down the planks in the desired pattern. For glue-down LVP, you’ll need to apply an adhesive to the subfloor before laying down the planks. If you are using floating LVP, you’ll need to start by laying down the underlayment before installing the planks. Once the planks are in place, use a rubber mallet and tapping block to ensure the planks are locked together securely.
Finishing the Installation
Once the LVP flooring is installed, you’ll need to finish the job with a few finishing touches. Start by adding trim pieces around the perimeter of the room to cover any exposed edges. Next, you’ll need to add baseboards around the bottom of the walls to finish the look. Finally, you can add a sealant or finish to the floor to help protect it from wear and tear.
Caring for Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is easy to care for and maintain. To keep your floor looking its best, sweep or vacuum the floor regularly. You can also use a damp mop to clean the floor, but be sure to use a cleaning product that is specifically designed for LVP flooring. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing the floor with a brush as this can damage the floor. Finally, be sure to avoid getting the floor wet as this can cause damage.
Conclusion
Installing luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great way to add a beautiful and durable floor to your home. LVP is easy to install and maintain, making it a great choice for DIYers and professional installers alike. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your LVP flooring is installed correctly and will last for years to come.
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