7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring
When installing vinyl planks at home, a few mishaps can be the difference between a long-lasting floor and a weak floor.
Today, Mersey Flooring will discuss each common mistake and how to avoid them when installing your own vinyl flooring. This will help you achieve a professional-level installation on a budget.
1. Not Preparing the Subfloor Properly
The subfloor is one of the most important parts of flooring installation. It sets the base for your planks and determines whether the floor will live up to its lifespan.
This can also cause noticeable imperfections in your new floor if you fail to remove any old screws or sand down uneven spots. To spot unevenness, use a level or straightedge to look for variations in height.
Sand and fill any small dips in the floor and self-levelling compound for major concerns. A moisture barrier is also essential for areas with high humidity. Failing to install one can lead to dampness and buckling. For this, choose a vapour barrier sheet for your subfloor.
2. Skipping the Acclimation Period
Vinyl, like most flooring materials, is sensitive to temperature and humidity changes.
Skipping the acclimation period can cause planks to expand or contract after installation, leading to gaps, warping, or buckling. To avoid this, place the planks in the room 48–72 hours before installation.
This will allow it to adjust to the room's temperature and moisture levels. For this, you can remove the vinyl planks from their packaging and lay them flat on the floor in small stacks.
3. Incorrect Plank Placement and Pattern Alignment
Poor plank placement can result in messy and uneven floors, weakening the structure and causing an inconsistent look.
Misaligned planks can also lead to uneven wear, as certain areas of the floor may take more stress. When laying your planks, pay attention to the patterns, textures, and gradients on the planks.
Space out identical planks and create a randomised layout to avoid repeating patterns. It’s best to create a layout before installing the planks so you have a general idea of where to put them.
4. Incorrect Use of Adhesives or Fasteners
Using the wrong adhesives or fasteners for your vinyl plank flooring can lead to shifting, lifting, and damage to both the floor and the subfloor.
Different types of vinyl require different adhesives. For glue-down vinyl planks, use a vinyl adhesive with moisture-resistant properties (ideal for bathrooms and kitchens).
If you’re installing a floating floor or a click-lock mechanism, using glue can damage the plank's flexibility. Planks need room to expand and contract, so using glue can lead to gaps and lifted edges.
When it comes to fasteners, use of these is generally not advised for vinyl plank flooring. However, if extra stability is needed, nails or screws can be used sparingly around the perimeter of a room.
5. Not Leaving Room for Expansion and Contraction
Like any flooring, vinyl plank flooring expands and contracts according to temperature and humidity changes.
Adding expansion gaps allows the planks to shift without damaging the floor's structural integrity. Kitchens and bathrooms with high humidity levels may require larger expansion gaps.
An expansion gap of around 6-10mm (1/4–3/8 inch) is recommended. To create this gap, use spacers to secure the planks in place while installing to prevent any movement. Expansion gaps should be placed around doors, cabinets, and along walls.
6. Failing to Protect the Floor After Installation
Many people think that once the flooring is installed, your work is done. However, there are a few crucial after-installation steps to take to enhance the durability of your new flooring.
The first is to allow your floating floor or adhesive to set before walking on it. Heavy furniture should not be placed on a glue-down vinyl floor until at least 24 to 48 hours have passed. This guarantees a strong foundation by enabling the adhesive to fully connect.
For floating flooring, a day should be plenty for the planks to settle. When placing furniture down, place felt pads under the legs to prevent denting and scratching.
Rugs can make a home feel more cosy. Opt for rugs with non-slip felt or fabric backings, as rubber or latex-backed rugs can trap moisture and cause discolouration.
7. Not Purchasing Extra Material
When it comes to floor installation, mistakes are bound to happen. That’s why it’s important to purchase extra material to account for these errors.
We recommend purchasing 5 to 10% extra material so you won’t run short. For rooms with regular shapes or complex layouts, purchase additional material on top of that.
Plus, purchasing extra vinyl planks can come in handy for any future replacements.
Upgrade your Floors with Mersey Flooring
If it’s time to replace your old floors, then you’ve come to the right place.
Mersey Flooring offers a wide range of high-quality floors, including vinyl, engineered, and herringbone flooring. With us, upgrading your home is made simple.
Browse our wide collection of styles today to find the perfect match for your home. Contact our team for professional advice or more information.