Vinyl plank flooring is the most popular choice among homeowners. It is durable, water-resistant, and comes in a stylish appearance. However, the best flooring can fail if it is not installed properly. Avoiding common installation mistakes ensures a professional finish that lasts for years. Here are the ten most common mistakes when installing vinyl plank flooring and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping Subfloor Preparation
An uneven or dirty subfloor can cause problems such as spaces, plank lifting, and uneven surfaces. This can be addressed by ensuring that the subfloor is thoroughly cleaned of dust, debris, and grease. Make sure the subfloor is level by filling low spots and sanding down high areas. Consider installing a moisture barrier, especially over concrete. Do not forget that a perfect vinyl plank installation starts from a well-prepared subfloor.
2. Ignoring Moisture Levels
Moisture damage can cause warping, bubbling, peeling planks, discoloration, and even mold growth. To prevent these problems, test the subfloor’s moisture content before installation. Use waterproof underlayment or a moisture barrier where needed. Consider vinyl planks with built-in moisture resistance for extra security. Regular moisture testing, especially in high-humidity areas, can save you from costly repairs down the line.
3. Choosing the Wrong Underlayment
Incorrect underlayment can cause planks to shift, creak, and wear prematurely. To choose the right underlayment, consult the flooring manufacturer’s recommendations. Soundproofing underlayment is ideal for multi-story buildings. Skip additional underlayment if the planks already have attached padding. The right underlayment can enhance the comfort and durability of your floor, so don’t overlook this step.
4. Failing to Acclimate the Flooring
Vinyl planks expand and contract with temperature and humidity. Failure to acclimate the flooring may lead to buckling and gaps. Keep planks in the installation room for 48-72 hours before installation. Maintain room temperature and humidity constant during this period. Acclimating the planks to the room’s conditions ensures that they adapt correctly and avoid future problems.
5. Incorrect Measurement and Planning
Misjudging the size of the room can lead to material shortages or excessive waste. Measure the length and width of the room and multiply them to determine the total square footage. Add 10-15% extra material to allow for cuts and possible mistakes. Plan the layout with care so that narrow planks are not left on the walls. Precise planning prevents costly mistakes and allows you to have enough materials for a smooth installation.
6. Not Leaving Expansion Gaps
Vinyl planks expand and contract with changes in temperature. Without expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room, they can buckle. Apply a 1/4-inch gap around the entire room. Use spacers when installing to maintain consistent gaps that may then be covered by baseboards or trim. Expansion gaps let the planks freely shift without warping and cracking, which means their lifespan is maintained.
7. Misaligned Planks
An uneven first row or skipping a chalk line causes the planks to misalign. Start with a perfectly straight first row. A chalk line is used for accuracy. Stagger plank seams so that it will not only look more natural but professional as well. The tiniest misalignment could become noticeable as you move along, so start with a strong beginning and be precise.
8. Using the Wrong Tools
Improper tools lead to poor cuts and uneven installation. Essential tools are a tape measure, utility knife, spacers, tapping block, and pull bar. You should invest in quality tools to have precise cuts and planks that will hold well. A miter saw or jigsaw will be handy in making good cuts. Quality tools don’t just make the installation high quality but also faster.
9. Improper Adhesive Use (for Glue-Down Planks)
Applying too little or too much adhesive causes installation problems. All manufacturer’s instructions must be followed, and appropriate adhesive application should be accomplished using the recommended trowel. Allow sufficient dry time before using the flooring for a long-lasting attachment. Correct application of the adhesive helps to ensure tight locking of the planks into place, without giving way or loosening.
10. Rushing the Installation Process
Hastily completing the installation process may lead to noticeable seams, irregular planks, and a reduced lifespan for the flooring. It is advisable to adhere to a systematic installation guide, take periodic breaks to mitigate fatigue, and consistently verify alignment and spacing. Patience and attention to detail guarantee a flawless finish. Devoting sufficient time to the installation process yields a more refined, professional result that will endure over time.
Avoiding Installation Pitfalls with Targeted Flooring Solutions
Vinyl Flooring in Greensboro, NC
Homeowners in Greensboro, North Carolina, prefer vinyl flooring because it is durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. Its water-resistant qualities make it suitable for domestic and commercial settings.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring in Charlotte, NC
Luxury vinyl flooring in Charlotte remains the favorite option as it brings a combination of aesthetic appeal and functional practicality. It is truly suitable for modern and traditional houses with superior design and lasting performance.
Vinyl Flooring in Salisbury, NC
The residents of Salisbury like vinyl flooring because it’s affordable and versatile. Whether you’re renovating one room or an entire house, that option will give reliable results without going over budget.
Conclusion
Installing vinyl plank flooring can be a very fulfilling job, but several common mistakes have to be avoided to get the job done with durability and a professional finish. Time devoted to proper subfloor preparation, acclimating the flooring, careful measurement, and following the manufacturer’s instructions can avoid the pitfalls of planks being improperly aligned, adhesive not applied correctly, or gaps for expansion not being sufficient. Patience and attention to detail during the installation are important to achieve a perfect finish.
What happens if you don’t leave an expansion gap for vinyl plank flooring?
The absence of expansion gaps in vinyl plank flooring can cause buckling of the floor during periods of variability in temperature and humidity.
Can you install vinyl planks on an uneven floor?
No, uneven floors cause planks to shift, creak, and break over time.
How long should vinyl planks acclimate before installation?
Ideally, 48-72 hours in the installation room.
What’s the best way to fix misaligned vinyl planks?
The best way to correct misaligned vinyl planks is to remove and realign the vinyl planks. Use chalk lines for accuracy.
Is underlayment required with the vinyl plank flooring?
That depends on the product. Some planks come with attached padding, so no extra underlayment is required.
