A How-To-Guide for Luxury Vinyl Plank Installation

Installing your Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring by yourself? No need to stress, we'll help you through it!

Installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is a relatively straightforward process if you have some basic DIY skills and the right tools. Here's a general guide on how to install LVP flooring:

Materials and Tools Needed

1. Luxury vinyl planks

2. Underlayment (if required)

3. Utility knife

4. Tape measure

5. Straightedge

6. Hammer or mallet

7. Pry bar

8. Spacers

9. Flooring adhesive (if applicable)

10. Tapping block

11. Rubber mallet

12. Saw (jigsaw, circular, or handsaw depending on your preference)

13. Safety equipment (gloves, knee pads, safety glasses)
    

Installation Prep

1. Prepare the Subfloor

• Ensure that your subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Remove any existing flooring and address any unevenness or imperfections in the subfloor.
  

1. Acclimate the Flooring

• Let the LVP planks acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. This helps prevent expansion or contraction after installation.
  

1. Install Underlayment (if required)

• Some LVP flooring products require an underlayment for additional cushioning and sound absorption. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the underlayment if needed.
  

1. Plan the Layout

• Plan the layout of the planks, considering the orientation of the room and any obstacles like doorways. Start from the longest wall and work towards the opposite wall. Use spacers to maintain expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room.
  

1. Cut Planks as Needed

• Measure and cut the first plank to fit against the starting wall, leaving the necessary expansion gap. Use a utility knife and a straightedge to make precise cuts. Remember to stagger the joints of the planks for a more natural look.
  

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Ready to install

1. Begin Installation

• Start laying the planks from one corner of the room, clicking the tongue of the first plank into the groove of the second plank at a slight angle. Use a tapping block and rubber mallet to gently tap the planks together until they lock into place.
  

1. Continue Installation

• Continue installing the planks row by row, ensuring each plank is tightly locked together. Use the tapping block and rubber mallet as needed to close any gaps.
  

1. Trim the Last Row

• Measure and cut the last row of planks to fit against the wall, leaving the necessary expansion gap. Use a pry bar or pull bar to snugly fit the last row into place.
  

1. Install Transition Strips (if needed)

• Install transition strips where the LVP flooring meets other types of flooring or transitions between rooms. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing transition strips.
  

1. Finishing Touches
   

• Once all the planks are installed, remove the spacers and reinstall any baseboards or molding that were removed before installation.

And remember...

Always refer to the specific installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of your LVP flooring for detailed guidance, as different products may have specific requirements or recommendations. If you're unsure about any step of the process, it's advisable to consult with a professional installer.