How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring on an Uneven Floor

Are you considering installing vinyl plank flooring in your home but are concerned about laying it on an uneven floor? Vinyl plank flooring is a fantastic option for homeowners who want a durable, affordable, and easy-to-install flooring solution. However, uneven floors can definitely present a challenge. Don’t worry, though! In this article, we will share some expert tips on how to install vinyl plank flooring on an uneven floor, so you can achieve a beautiful and smooth finish.

Assess the Floor

Assessing a subfloor’s suitability for a Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) floor is essential to ensure a successful installation. First, it’s important to ensure that the subfloor is level and flat. Any bumps or dips can cause issues with the installation and the appearance of the finished floor. Use a level to check for any uneven areas.
It’s also essential to check the moisture content of the subfloor, as excessive moisture can damage the LVT or LVP floor. To check for moisture, use a moisture metre or a calcium chloride test. The recommended moisture level for LVT or LVP flooring is typically less than 5% for concrete subfloors and less than 12% for wood subfloors. If the subfloor has a moisture issue, it’s important to address the problem before proceeding with the installation.

Level the Floor

Uneven subfloors can cause issues with the flooring’s durability and lifespan, and may even cause it to fail so it’s important to rectify any problems before laying your LVP floor. There are several methods you can use to level a subfloor, depending on the extent of the unevenness.
First, there is a self-leveling compound. It’s an excellent choice for small to medium-sized areas with minor unevenness. This liquid is poured onto the floor, and it self-levels to create a smooth surface.
Another second option is to use a floor patching compound. This is used to fill in low spots on the floor and again works well for small to medium-sized dips.
Finally, if you have larger areas with significant unevenness, a subfloor system may be the best choice. A subfloor system involves installing a layer of plywood or other materials over the existing floor to create a level surface. For example, a popular subfloor system is the DRIcore Subfloor system, which consists of panels made of high-density polyethylene and oriented strand board, designed to create a flat, stable surface for vinyl plank flooring installation.
By assessing your subfloor’s condition and using the appropriate levelling method, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting vinyl plank flooring installation.

Install the Vinyl Plank Flooring

Once the floor is level and any debris, dust, or dirt that may affect the adhesive’s performance has been removed you are almost ready to install your Vinyl planks. There is one easy step to complete first, acclimatising your LVPs. Acclimating the flooring means allowing it to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity levels, which helps prevent the planks from expanding or contracting after installation. It’s recommended to let the flooring acclimate for at least 48 hours before commencing your installation.
After acclimating, you can install a foam underlayment, which helps level the surface and provides additional sound insulation. There are various types of underlayment available, including cork, felt, and foam. Once the underlayment is in place, you can begin laying the planks. It’s essential to start at one end of the room and lay the planks parallel to the longest wall. Using a tapping block and a rubber mallet, connect the planks together, ensuring that they fit tightly and securely. Don’t forget to leave a small gap between the planks and the wall to allow for expansion and contraction!

Cutting the planks is an important step when installing vinyl plank flooring, especially if you have obstacles like doorways or corners. One of the easiest and most efficient tools for cutting the planks is a utility knife. Make sure to use a sharp blade and a straightedge to make clean, accurate cuts. If you have more complex cuts to make, such as curves or intricate shapes, a saw might be a better choice. A jigsaw, circular saw, or handsaw can all be used to cut the planks to fit your space precisely.

Finishing Touches

Once you have installed the vinyl plank flooring, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Installing trim around the edges of the room is an excellent way to give the space a polished and professional look. There are several types of trim to choose from, including quarter-round and skirting board. Quarter-round moulding is a popular choice because it covers the gap between the vinyl plank flooring and the wall, giving the space a finished appearance. Skirting board is another great option that can add height to your room and provide a seamless transition between the floor and the wall. You can also use a combination of skirting board and quarter-round moulding if the gap between the LVP and wall is on the larger side.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, installing vinyl planks on an uneven floor isn’t impossible, it just requires a little preparation. By using the right tools and techniques, you can self install the perfect flooring for your home. It all starts with assessing your floor’s condition and ensuring it’s level before beginning the installation process. With a level surface and proper installation techniques, you’ll have a flooring that’s not only visually appealing but also durable and easy to maintain. So why wait? Get started on your project today and enjoy the benefits of vinyl plank flooring in your home for years to come!
Victoria’s Best Home Flooring is a reputable flooring company based in Melbourne, Australia. They offer a wide range of flooring solutions to homeowners, including vinyl plank, hardwood, laminate, and carpet flooring. With years of experience in the industry, Victoria’s Best Home Flooring has earned a reputation for providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Their team of flooring experts is knowledgeable and experienced, and they work closely with their clients to ensure that they get the perfect flooring for their homes. Whether you’re looking to update your living room or completely renovate your home’s flooring, Victoria’s Best Home Flooring has the expertise and resources to help you achieve your vision.