Maya Ellison
Plastic plank flooring, also known as vinyl plank flooring, is a popular flooring option due to its ease of installation, durability, and versatility. It is also moisture-resistant, stain-resistant, and comfortable underfoot, making it a preferred choice for families with children and pets. With quick installation, a variety of colours, and low costs, it is an attractive option for those looking to renovate their homes. This guide will provide a step-by-step introduction to installing plastic plank flooring, covering topics such as floor preparation, layout, and the different installation methods available.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right type of vinyl plank flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is a versatile and stylish flooring solution that is durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. It is also a cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $2 to $7 per square foot, and it can be installed as a DIY project. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right type of vinyl plank flooring for your needs:
Installation Method
Vinyl planks can be installed using GripStrip, click-lock, or glue-down methods. GripStrip vinyl planking has a manufacturer-applied adhesive layer that connects the planks, creating a floating floor that does not adhere to the subfloor. Click-lock or interlocking vinyl planking also creates a floating floor with planks that lock together. Glue-down vinyl plank flooring uses adhesives to bond the planks to the subfloor, with hard-set or pressure-sensitive adhesive options available.
Core Materials
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is available with different core materials such as Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) and Stone-Plastic Composite (SPC). WPC offers some cushioning, while SPC provides maximum rigidity and durability. The choice between WPC and SPC depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Waterproof Properties
Vinyl plank flooring is known for its waterproof capabilities, making it ideal for areas with moisture concerns, such as bathrooms and kitchens. However, not all vinyl plank flooring options are created equal when it comes to waterproof properties. Consider the specific needs of your space and choose a vinyl plank flooring option that offers the necessary level of waterproof protection.
Thickness and Wear Layer
While thickness is not the sole indicator of good performance, it is still an important consideration. LVP flooring with a thinner core but made up of hard minerals can sometimes surpass the quality of thicker options. Additionally, consider the wear layer of the flooring, which will impact its durability and resistance to scratches and stains.
Design and Style
Vinyl plank flooring offers a wide range of design and style options to choose from. You can opt for a wood-look finish, imitation stone or ceramic tile, or explore various embossing patterns and colours to find the perfect fit for your aesthetic preferences and existing home decor.
Budget
Vinyl plank flooring options vary in price, so it is important to consider your budget when making your selection. Factor in the cost of the flooring itself, as well as any additional costs for installation if you choose to hire a professional. Compare prices from different brands and retailers to find the best value for your money.
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Preparing the subfloor
Firstly, ensure that your subfloor is compatible with the plastic plank flooring you intend to install. Plastic plank flooring can be installed over various surfaces, including concrete, hardwood, tile, vinyl, or even existing vinyl flooring. However, it is crucial to verify that the previous flooring is in good condition and meet the manufacturer's guidelines for suitable subfloors.
Next, clean and level the subfloor. Vacuum the subfloor to remove any dirt, debris, or residue. Ensure that the subfloor is dry and level within a tolerance of 3/16-inch change per 10 feet. You can use a self-leveller to fill in any low spots and sand down any high spots on wood or concrete surfaces. Remember not to sand vinyl flooring, as it may contain asbestos.
Additionally, consider using an underlayment, especially if you are installing the flooring over concrete or in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms. Underlayment provides extra cushioning, sound reduction, and moisture protection. It also helps compensate for any imperfections in the subfloor. Common underlayment materials include foam, felt, cork, or plywood. When installing the underlayment, ensure that it is perpendicular to the direction in which you will lay your plastic plank flooring.
By following these steps, you will adequately prepare your subfloor, ensuring a smooth and successful installation process for your new plastic plank flooring.
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Removing baseboards
To remove baseboards, start by cutting through any paint sealing the baseboards to the wall using a utility knife. Scoring the caulk along the seams of the baseboard will help to loosen it. Then, use a pry bar to gently pry the baseboards away from the wall. If you are removing baseboards in a room with carpet, be aware that the carpet is likely installed after the baseboards, so you will need to work carefully to avoid damaging the carpet. It is recommended to wear gloves when removing baseboards in a carpeted room, as the tack strips may have small nails protruding from them.
Once the paint or caulk has been scored, gently tap on the handle of a rubber mallet while placing the tapered end of a painter's tool into the seam. The baseboard should start to separate from the wall. Work your way down the length of the baseboard, loosening it as you go. Be careful not to break the baseboards if you plan to reuse them.
After removing the baseboards, prepare the subfloor by ensuring it is clean, dry, and level. Use a self-leveller on low spots and/or sand high spots of wood or concrete. It is important to note that you should not sand vinyl flooring as it may contain asbestos.
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Staggering the joints
To stagger the joints, start by leaving a small expansion gap of about a quarter of an inch between the first row of planks and the wall. This gap will prevent the planks from buckling as they expand and contract with changes in humidity.
The next step is to ensure that the joints between the planks are staggered. The general rule is to maintain a minimum distance of 6 inches between end joints in adjacent rows. However, this distance can be increased to 8 or 10 inches if you are using wider planks, but be mindful that spacing greater than 10 inches increases the chances of creating an undesirable H-joint pattern.
To avoid H-joints and step patterns, lay the planks randomly, ensuring that the spacing between joints is not replicated in adjacent rows. Start each new row with a plank that is at least 2 inches longer or shorter than the starting planks of the previous two rows. You can use offcut planks from previous rows to start new rows, but be mindful of creating repetitive patterns.
By following these steps and staggering the joints correctly, you will achieve a visually appealing and durable plastic plank floor.
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Cutting and connecting the planks
Cutting the Planks
Before you begin cutting, it's important to measure and mark the cut lines accurately. Use a measuring tape and a straightedge to mark the desired length or width of the plank. You can use a chalk or crayon to make a clear, visible line. Once you've made your marks, use a utility knife to score the plank along the cut line. Scoring creates a groove that guides the cut and prevents the plank from splintering. After scoring, you can use a jigsaw or miter saw for more complex cuts, but for straight cuts, simply apply pressure and snap the plank along the scored line.
Connecting the Planks
There are different methods for connecting vinyl plank flooring, including GripStrip, click-lock, and glue-down. GripStrip vinyl planking features a manufacturer-applied adhesive layer that connects the planks without adhering to the subfloor, creating a floating floor. Click-lock, or interlocking vinyl plank flooring, also creates a floating floor by using a modified tongue and groove connection that locks the planks together. For glue-down vinyl plank flooring, you can use either hard-set or pressure-sensitive adhesive. Hard-set adhesive is spread onto the subfloor before laying the planks, while pressure-sensitive adhesive is already on the bottom of the plank and bonds when pressed into place.
Staggering the Joints
It's important to stagger the joints of your vinyl flooring by at least 6 inches to ensure a strong and aesthetically pleasing installation. Start by cutting the tongue off the first row of vinyl planks using a utility knife. Set the first plank with the cut side toward the wall, maintaining the expansion gap. For the next plank, hold it at a slight angle and connect the short end to the previous plank, then fold it down to click it into place. Continue this process, staggering the joints and maintaining the expansion gap.
Finishing Rows
To ensure a neat finish, calculate the width of the last row. If it's less than 1/3 of a plank, adjust the first row accordingly by cutting about 1/3 of the plank off. This will help you achieve even starting and finishing rows. For the final piece, score it with a utility knife and snap the plank to fit. Ensure that the end piece is at least 6 inches long. If it isn't, adjust the first plank accordingly.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a utility knife, measuring tape, a chalk or crayon, a straightedge, a vacuum, a tapping block, a rubber mallet, a pry bar, and safety goggles. You may also need vinyl floor adhesive and a notched trowel, depending on the type of flooring you are installing.
You can install plastic plank flooring on concrete, hardwood, tile, or existing vinyl flooring, as long as the surface is flat and clean.
No, you do not need to remove your baseboards. However, if you choose not to, you will need shoe mouldings to cover up the expansion gap.
It can take between two hours and two days to install plastic plank flooring, depending on the size of the room and the type of flooring.
GripStrip and click-lock plastic plank flooring are suitable for novices and can be laid over any rigid and level subfloor.
