Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring

Introduction

Vinyl planks look very much like wood flooring but are less expensive. In basements and other areas where moisture is an issue, they have the advantage of being waterproof. Vinyl plank flooring is easy to install. You can use either regular vinyl planks or the self-adhering type. Self-sticking planks are thinner and a little less durable. To begin, measure the room and calculate the square footage, including closets and entryways. Add about 10 percent to allow for trim to find how much you need to purchase. Other supplies you need are sub-floor primer/sealant, patching compound and wood putty. For tools, you should rent a vinyl tile cutter. You can use a utility knife and T-square for small rooms. A chalk line for orienting the planks is helpful, along with a floor scraper and citrus-based adhesive solvent if you need to strip old vinyl. If you choose to use regular rather than self-adhesive vinyl plank flooring, you will need vinyl floor adhesive, a notched trowel and a floor roller.

Preparation

Start by removing baseboards and thresholds. If you need to remove old vinyl flooring, use a floor scraper and a citrus-based floor adhesive remover--these are less toxic. Examine the surface on which you'll be installing vinyl plank flooring and use a patching compound to fill any cracks using a putty knife. Smooth off these spots and use sandpaper to level them out if need be. Give the room a good sweep and mop. You need a smooth, even surface for your new flooring. Finally, put down a coat of floor primer to act as a moisture seal.

Installation

Choose the wall that is in the main line of sight of the room. Most often, this is the wall opposite the main entrance. Snap the chalk line along the length of this wall to make sure it is completely straight. If not, you'll need to use the chalk line to orient the planks. If the wall is not straight, leave a gap to install partial planks cut to fit. The idea is the planks should line up in a straight line to produce the best appearance. Start in one corner and peel off the paper backing and position the plank on the floor. Press down firmly to make the adhesive stick to the sub-floor. Lay a single line of vinyl planks end to end using the chalk line as a guide. To start the second row, cut a plank in half. By alternating whole and half planks to start each line, you'll stagger them and create a more authentic appearance. Finish installing the flooring by measuring each gap at the end of the room and along the sides and cut pieces to fit.

Using Adhesive

The steps to install vinyl plank flooring using a separate adhesive are the same except for the adhesive itself. Always use an adhesive recommended by the vinyl plank manufacturer. Vinyl flooring adhesives are "product specific" and may not work well with other brands. Spread a small area--2 or 3 planks' worth--with adhesive using a small notch trowel held at a 45-degree angle. Install the planks just as you would the self-stick type. When you are done, use a heavy floor roller to smooth out the flooring and make sure it's solidly bonded to the sub-floor.

Resources

• Overview: Vinyl Tile and Plank Flooring