Laying Vinyl Flooring Step by Step Guide

Vinyl flooring has been a popular choice for many homeowners and business owners for years due to its durability and versatility. Not only is it affordable, but it also comes in a wide range of styles and designs, making it a great choice for any room in your home or business. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and living rooms due to its resistance to scratches and stains. Moreover, vinyl flooring is easy to clean and maintain, making it an ideal option for those who want a low-maintenance flooring solution.
Laying vinyl flooring is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills. The installation process involves preparing the subfloor, cutting the vinyl to size, and adhering it to the floor. However, there are several factors to consider to ensure a successful installation, such as the type of vinyl flooring, the condition of the subfloor, and the tools and materials needed for the job.
In this article, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to help you achieve a professional-looking finish. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional flooring installer, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about laying vinyl flooring, from start to finish.

Step 1: Preparation

Preparing the surface before laying vinyl flooring is a crucial step to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation. In addition to cleaning the subfloor and ensuring it is level, there are a few other important considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, it’s essential to inspect the subfloor to check for any damage or moisture issues. If there are any cracks or gaps in the subfloor, they will need to be filled and smoothed over before laying the vinyl. Moisture can also cause problems, as it can lead to the growth of mould and mildew or cause the vinyl to warp. If you suspect there may be moisture issues, it’s important to address them before laying the flooring.
Another important consideration is the type of underlayment to use. Underlayment can provide added cushioning and soundproofing and can also help to prevent moisture from seeping through to the subfloor. The type of underlayment you choose will depend on the specific needs of your space and the type of vinyl flooring you are installing.
It’s also important to consider the temperature and humidity levels in the space where the vinyl flooring will be installed. Extreme temperatures or high levels of humidity can cause the vinyl to expand or contract, leading to warping or buckling. To prevent this, it’s important to ensure the space is well-ventilated and to keep the temperature and humidity levels within a moderate range.
By properly preparing the surface and considering these important factors, you can ensure a successful installation of vinyl flooring that will provide long-lasting durability and style to your space.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Vinyl

Accurately measuring the length and width of the room is crucial for a successful vinyl flooring installation. However, it’s not just about measuring the square footage of the space. You also need to take into consideration any nooks, corners, or other obstacles that may require additional cuts or waste. It’s recommended to add an extra 10-15% of vinyl flooring to the total measurement to account for these factors.
After purchasing the vinyl flooring, it’s important to let it acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the room. This means leaving the vinyl in the room for at least 24 hours before installation. This will help prevent any expansion or contraction of the flooring after it’s been installed.
When it comes to cutting the vinyl, using a sharp utility knife or vinyl cutter is essential to achieve clean and precise cuts. Additionally, it’s important to leave a 1/4 inch gap between the vinyl flooring and the wall. This gap allows for the vinyl to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity levels. It’s also a good idea to use a straight edge or ruler to ensure straight cuts and maintain consistency throughout the installation process.

Step 3: Apply Adhesive

Before applying adhesive, it’s important to ensure that the subfloor is completely dry and free of any dust or debris. Any moisture or dirt left on the subfloor can cause the adhesive to fail, resulting in a poorly laid vinyl floor. It’s also crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the adhesive you are using, as different types of vinyl flooring require different adhesives.
When applying the adhesive, it’s recommended to use a notched trowel to ensure that the adhesive is spread evenly across the subfloor. The size of the notches in the trowel will depend on the thickness of the vinyl and the manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s important to start in one corner of the room and work your way towards the other side, in small sections, to prevent the adhesive from drying out before the vinyl is laid.
It’s also essential to pay close attention to the drying time of the adhesive. Most adhesives will require a certain amount of time to dry before the vinyl can be laid on top. This is typically indicated on the adhesive packaging and can vary depending on factors such as humidity levels and temperature.
Additionally, it’s recommended to roll the vinyl once it’s been laid to ensure that it adheres properly to the subfloor. A flooring roller can be used to apply even pressure across the entire surface of the vinyl, helping to eliminate any air bubbles and ensuring a tight bond between the vinyl and the subfloor.
Overall, taking the time to properly apply adhesive is key to achieving a long-lasting and beautiful vinyl flooring installation.

Step 4: Lay the Vinyl

After the vinyl flooring is carefully cut and adhesive is applied to the subfloor, it’s time to lay the vinyl in place. As mentioned earlier, starting in one corner of the room and working your way towards the other side is the most efficient way to do it. However, it is important to make sure that the vinyl is properly aligned with the walls and any other features in the room.
As you lay the vinyl, it’s important to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. Doing so will not only improve the appearance of the finished product but also help to prevent tripping hazards or uneven surfaces. To achieve the best results, it’s recommended to work from the centre of the vinyl towards the edges, using a hand roller or other similar tool.
After the vinyl is laid in place, it’s time to make sure that it is firmly attached to the subfloor. Using a flooring roller is the best way to achieve this. Working from the centre of the room towards the edges, the flooring roller should be used to press the vinyl down firmly, ensuring good contact with the adhesive. This will help prevent any air bubbles or gaps from forming under the vinyl, which can cause the vinyl to become loose or unstable over time.

Step 5: Finish and Clean Up

Installing vinyl flooring is a rewarding process that can add a great look and feel to any space. However, it’s important to complete the installation properly to ensure a durable and long-lasting finish. Once the vinyl is fully installed, you’ll want to take a few final steps to complete the project. First, trim off any excess vinyl around the edges of the room using a sharp utility knife. Be careful not to cut into the baseboards or moulding, which will be installed next. Speaking of baseboards or moulding, these are an essential part of any vinyl flooring installation. They are used to cover the gap between the vinyl and the wall, giving the room a finished look. There are many different styles and materials of baseboards and moulding to choose from, so be sure to select the ones that complement your vinyl flooring.
Once the baseboards or moulding are installed, it’s time to do some cleaning. Clean up any excess adhesive or debris from the installation, taking care to avoid scratching the vinyl surface. A damp cloth or mop with mild soap and water can be used to clean the vinyl surface. It’s important to allow the vinyl to set for at least 24 hours before walking on it or moving furniture back into the room. This will allow the adhesive to fully cure and provide a solid bond with the subfloor. After that, you can enjoy your new vinyl flooring for years to come!

Takeaways

Laying vinyl flooring can be a simple and rewarding DIY project. By following these steps you can easily install your own vinyl floor and achieve a professional finish.
Properly prepare the surface
Allow Vinyl to acclimatise
Measure and cut the vinyl accurately
Apply the adhesive with a notched trowel
Lay and then floor roll the vinyl
Victoria’s Best Flooring is a Melbourne-based flooring company that offers a wide range of high-quality flooring products and services. With years of experience in the industry, they have established themselves as one of the most reliable and trusted flooring specialists in the area.