There are several steps that you need to take in order to install vinyl plank flooring properly. First, you must make sure that the subfloor is level and clean. Next, you need to lay underlayment. This may be cork, plywood, or foam. Depending on your specific circumstances, choose the most appropriate type.
Staggering rows
Staggering rows of vinyl planks can provide a more visually appealing and structurally sound floor. It also prevents sagging, buckling, and separation. The exact spacing between planks depends on the manufacturer. You can also stagger your planks if you’d like to create a more random look.
You can install staggered rows of vinyl plank flooring yourself if you’re comfortable with DIY tasks. For example, if your planks are 2 to 3 inches wide, you may want to stagger them by six inches. However, if you’re using thicker planks, you may want to stagger your rows by eight to 10 inches. This style of flooring is also durable, water resistant, and phthalate-free. It’s also Green Guard Gold certified, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Staggering rows of vinyl planks can also create a pattern. You can also stagger the rows by using the cut ends of the planks. This will give a natural wood floor appearance. You should stagger each row so that the ends do not line up with the seams in the previous row. After you’ve finished installing the floors, you can install baseboards and finish molding. If necessary, you can even install doors.
Another way to stagger rows of vinyl plank flooring is to buy extra boards. You should buy about 10 percent more than you need. This way, you will have less waste at the end of the installation. However, you should still make sure that you buy enough flooring to complete your job.
Once you have cut the planks, you can start the second row. The first row of vinyl planks should be staggered by six inches, and the second row should be staggered by six inches. After the first row is completed, you can cut the remaining planks to fit into the gaps.
You can also stagger your rows of vinyl plank flooring by using the same starter pieces, but with varying spacing between rows. The spacing should be at least six inches apart, avoiding an H-joint. Then, use the remaining plank from the first row to begin the next row. Make sure the first plank of the new row is two to three inches longer, but not more than six inches. By staggering the rows, you can create a more visually appealing floor.
Working around a jamb
When installing vinyl plank flooring, it is sometimes necessary to work around a doorjamb. For this, you need to first cut a plank to fit around the jamb. Make sure you cut it lengthwise. Then, lift it up so it fits the door jamb and doorstop. Lastly, slide the new flooring over the jambs.
The width of the first row of planks should be smaller than the width of the second row, so you may need to trim the last row to fit. If you have a wide room, you can use a scrap piece of flooring to help you measure. You can also use shims to make a gap between the flooring and walls. This will make it easier for the flooring to expand and contract with temperature changes. In addition, the first row should start perpendicular to the longest wall to minimize cutting.
You can also use a utility knife to score the vinyl plank. Always remember to score each plank at the same location when you cut it. Using a power saw to rip or crosscut the vinyl flooring is another option. Just make sure to work outdoors if possible to avoid the dust. Make sure you have a good dust extraction system to get rid of any leftover debris.
If you have a door jamb in a hallway, make sure to make sure that the floor is long enough to fit around it. The threshold of the door should be hidden when the door is closed, and you don’t want to see your finished floor through the door.
When installing laminate flooring around a doorway, you will need to take extra care when installing the floor. After you cut the flooring, make sure you use a framing square to measure the depth of the jamb. You’ll also need to measure the trim on the door.
Once you’ve cut and leveled the first row, you can begin installing the second row. The second row should be staggered by six inches. You should be able to work around a jamb by installing planks at an angle to the first row. Holding the new plank at an angle of 15 degrees to the first plank will allow the tongue of the new plank to fit in the groove of the second plank.
Work around a door opening
Working around a door opening can be tricky but is not impossible. The easiest way to do so is to work parallel to the jamb. Mark the first plank and then use a taping block to push it under the jamb. Once the jamb is secured, you can begin installing the second plank.
The first row should be laid straight and then the second row should be staggered six inches apart. Start the second row in the middle of the room. Start the second row of vinyl plank flooring from the middle and work your way out. If the first row is difficult, use a tapping block to press down the previous row of boards. This method is simple enough for a DIY homeowner to complete in a day or two. However, if you have a door jamb, the installation may take longer.
If your floor is too narrow, you can always cut the flooring to fit around the door. The key to cutting the flooring is to make sure the flooring is flat and level. Then, use a circular saw with a carbide-tipped blade to score the plank flooring. Once the score line is scored, simply follow the score line with the saw blade.
If you have an existing door jamb, work around the door opening with extra care. Depending on the size of the door jamb, vinyl plank flooring may need to be bent in different directions. For example, the last row may need to be cut lengthwise to fit around the door jamb. This requires a cut about 1/4 inch away from the wall.
Once you have the door jamb cut, you can install the next row of flooring. Make sure that you use the first row of flooring as a guide to cut through the jamb. You may have to trim the moldings if the door case is raised. This step is important because you do not want to damage your trim.
Cost of installing vinyl plank flooring
Installing vinyl plank flooring can be very expensive. Prices can run from $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on the design and the size of your room. Before you decide to install vinyl plank flooring, make sure that you have a level surface. If your floor has low spots, you may need to add self-leveling concrete or use elastomeric caulk to fill the cracks. Self-leveling concrete can cost you about $5 to $6 per square foot, while crack repairs can cost about $1 to $3 per linear foot.
You can lay vinyl plank flooring directly on top of existing flooring, or you can install it over an existing subfloor. It is important to level the subfloor, as any unevenness will show through the vinyl. If your subfloor is made of plywood, use a floor-leveling compound.
The cost of installing vinyl plank flooring will vary depending on where you live, as material and labor prices vary wildly in different parts of the country. For instance, the labor cost in New York City may be higher than in Seattle than in the Midwest. Likewise, the materials and subfloor preparation may vary significantly from state to state, as transportation costs can greatly affect the price.
Although vinyl plank flooring is considered a budget-friendly option, additional costs can quickly add up. It is important to get quotes from several installers before you commit to installing your new flooring. While the lowest bid may seem appealing, it is best to choose a contractor that values quality work. A contractor dedicated to quality workmanship will take the extra steps necessary to ensure the flooring installation is done correctly.
While the average cost of vinyl plank flooring varies by location, the installation process is generally quite simple. Depending on the level of difficulty and the level of expertise, it may cost anywhere from $1.50 to $6 per square foot. The cost will depend on the type of installation method and the amount of glue needed to adhere the vinyl planks to the floor. If you’re able to complete the project yourself, you can save a significant amount of money.
In addition to purchasing vinyl plank flooring, you’ll also need to purchase trim. Some manufacturers will include these pieces with their floors while others will require you to purchase them separately. The vinyl adhesive itself can cost as much as $30 per gallon. One gallon is enough for approximately 150 square feet of flooring.