Tips for DIY Vinyl Floor Installation
If you've decided to install your own vinyl flooring, you already know that it will be easy to care for and will hold up to everyday traffic, but what you may not know is that with a few tips, the installation can be quick and easy too.
Whether you've chosen vinyl sheet or tiles, always make sure you are starting with a clean surface. If you are installing over existing vinyl, make sure it is clean and free of any wax or polish, as this will prevent adhesives from sticking. If your flooring is going over bare sheeting or other wood, sweep the area and check for anything that might create uneven spots, like staples, uneven joints, or knots. Your best bet is to remove any staples or pound them down so your new flooring will lie flat. Sand down knots or high spots to avoid waves.
Start with any sides or edges that will need to be trimmed or cut to fit around appliances or other fixtures. This gives you a good fit and helps the middle of the room or space stay flat and true. Working from one side of the room to the other is always a good method, too. Going all the way around the outside of the room can work, but if you are using tiles, you may end up with partial tiles in the middle of the room, which might not be the look you are hoping for!
Not everyone chooses to use adhesive with sheet vinyl. Some spaces, such as bathrooms can work without it, if you tuck the ends under a bathtub, or vanity or use a vinyl transition strip from that floor to the next room. One thing to remember if you do use adhesive is to check the label for drying time. Using an adhesive that sets very quickly can leave you scrambling if you need to adjust your vinyl. Also watch out for applying the adhesive to thickly. Depending on the thickness of your flooring, this can cause bubbles or waves. Allow adequate drying time for adhesives to prevent any shifting or sliding of your new floor.
One major snag you can run into is pattern. If you are using a patterned vinyl, make sure you have purchased enough to match the pattern if you need to piece in around fixtures or doorways.
Once you have your vinyl floor in place, install transition strips that bridge the gap between your vinyl floor and the floor of the next room. These are made for vinyl to wood, vinyl to carpet, and vinyl to tile applications and come in different finishes to match the look of your area.
Installing vinyl flooring can be an easy way to change the look of any room, and with the tips we've given, you will have plenty of time to sit back and enjoy or move on to your next project!