How to install vinyl plank flooring as a beginner?
Tools to install vinyl plank flooring
- LifeProof Vinyl Plank Flooring in the color of your choice. ...
- Matching Reducer or T-mold (as needed).
- Matching Stair nose (if installing on the staircase)
- Quarter Round – for around cabinets (match to flooring or get pre-primed)
- Flooring installation kit (includes spacers, tapping block, S-bar, and a mallet)
- Shop Vacuum
How to choose the right vinyl plank flooring?
The Best Vinyl Plank Flooring Picks for Your Home
- Hardwood Flooring Cons. Hardwoods are synonymous with luxury because — you guessed it — they’re expensive. ...
- A Quick Guide to Vinyl Plank Flooring. ...
- Best for Pets + Kids. ...
- Best for Kitchens + Bathrooms. ...
- Easiest DIY Installation. ...
- Best for Scratch + Stain Resistance. ...
- Most Convincing Wood Finish. ...
Are vinyl planks better than laminate?
Vinyl plank flooring is more waterproof than laminate because all of the layers of material used in the floor are waterproof. Laminate flooring is also made up of multiple layers but on the inside, it is made from pressed wood. If that layer of the flooring gets wet, it is going to ruin the board.
How to lay vinyl plank over existing flooring?
How to Install a Vinyl Plank Over an Uneven Floor
- Sand or Level Any Deformities. If you are installing vinyl planks over a concrete subfloor, you first need to level or sand any deformities.
- Remove All Baseboards. ...
- Clean the Debris and Dust. ...
- Take Measurements. ...
- Install Tongue and Groove Vinyl Flooring. ...
- Reinstall the Baseboards. ...
What is better laminate or vinyl plank flooring?
Vinyl stands up the best against excess moisture and spills, and it can be less expensive than laminate. However, laminate gives a more realistic wood look to enhance the design aesthetic in your home.
What is vinyl wood plank?
Rather than a thin layer of very flexible vinyl, vinyl plank flooring is a much thicker flooring material that is fabricated in long planks with a modified tongue-and-groove connection system that snaps together, usually called click-lock.
What is the difference between plank flooring and vinyl flooring?
With vinyl plank flooring, the core layer is a thicker, multi-layer PVC vinyl. Luxury vinyl flooring comes in planks or tiles that interlock side-to-side to form a floating floor....Vinyl Flooring.ItemPurposeBuilt-in UnderlaymentSoft layer helps with uneven subfloors5 more rows•Jun 1, 2022
Is vinyl plank flooring a good idea?
Vinyl is the most popular form of resilient flooring (a category that also includes linoleum and cork) because it's low-maintenance, water-resistant, cost-effective, and long-lasting. It also has the perfect balance of firmness and “give,” meaning it springs a bit when you walk on it for a comfortable feel underfoot.
What are the problems with vinyl plank flooring?
Problems include crumpling at the edges, as the adhesive has loosened, or, as in case of LVT, problems with abatement chemicals which can react adversely with these flooring materials. If you are installing click-lock vinyl planks, uneven substrate can lead to lifting of the flooring's edges and joints.
What are the disadvantages of vinyl flooring?
Some disadvantages of vinyl flooring include:Cannot be repaired.Can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs)Shorter lifespan than wood floors.No impact, or negative impact, on home resale value.Difficult to remove, especially if adhesive is used during installation.Not eco-friendly; difficult to recycle.
Can you mop vinyl plank flooring?
Wet-mop to remove grime One of the best vinyl plank flooring cleaners is a cup of apple cider or white vinegar in a gallon of hot water. Dampen your mop, and mop your vinyl plank flooring in the direction of the planks. The vinegar will tackle dirt, grime, and stains without leaving behind streaks or a sudsy mess.
Which is better wood or vinyl flooring?
Hardwood flooring is a natural, durable but expensive flooring option for homes. Vinyl flooring is cheaper, but a less durable, synthetic alternative. Hardwood floors are usually favored for their durability, better aesthetic and resale value.
Which is better vinyl tile or plank?
Both vinyl plank and ceramic tile are known to be durable flooring options. However, ceramic can chip and crack over time. Ceramic tile is more prone to damage (think dropping something heavy on the surface) than vinyl plank. Vinyl plank is also a better option if you have children or pets.
Can you put heavy furniture on vinyl plank flooring?
Placing heavy appliances on top of click-lock vinyl will inhibit the floor from expanding and contracting, resulting in buckling and damaging the locking systems. Heavy furniture on the other hand, is perfectly fine to place on top of this type of vinyl.
How long will vinyl plank flooring last?
5 to 25 yearsVinyl floors can last anywhere from 5 to 25 years, depending on their quality and how they're installed and maintained.
Do vinyl floors look cheap?
LVT will never look “cheap” — it will make your life easier and enhance the look and comfort of your home.
What Is Plank Vinyl Flooring?
At its core, plank vinyl floor, also called luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl floor (LVF), is simply vinyl flooring that comes in long, narr...
Features of Quality Luxury Vinyl Plank
Along with graphics, surface embossing is the quality that makes vinyl plank look more like wood plank. If you hold the product to an angle, you se...
Price Ranges: Moderate to High
Rarely, if ever, will vinyl plank floor reach the level of actual wood plank prices. After all, lower prices are one of the major reasons why homeo...
What About Inexpensive Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring in the rock-bottom pricing range can be found at commodity flooring retailers like BuildDirect, Lumber Liquidators, and Home D...
Are vinyl plank flooring and luxury vinyl flooring the same thing?
More or less. Any company can use the term “luxury” when marketing vinyl plank flooring. Some companies have cheaper flooring simply dubbed vinyl p...
Are all vinyl plank floors waterproof?
No, but most are water-resistant. It depends on the brand and collection, but you won’t have any problem finding waterproof planks.
Are rugs safe to use on vinyl plank flooring?
Most manufacturers advise against using rugs with a latex or rubber backing as it could potentially stain your floor. Look for vinyl-backed mats, w...
Will heavy furniture or appliances damage luxury vinyl flooring?
It shouldn’t be an issue unless you’re dealing with an unusual amount of weight. Just remember to keep felt pads beneath those objects to prevent s...
What is vinyl plank flooring?
Rather than a thin layer of very flexible vinyl, vinyl plank flooring is a much thicker flooring material that is fabricated in long planks with a modified tongue-and-groove connection system that snaps together, usually called "click-lock.".
What is the difference between sheet vinyl and vinyl plank flooring?
But structurally this is a different product. Sheet vinyl is generally flexible vinyl with a printed top layer covered by a clear wear layer, while vinyl plank flooring is a multi-ply product that features four layers: A topmost layer of aluminum oxide, designed to prevent light scratching and scuff s.
How much does vinyl plank flooring cost?
Prices for materials usually range from $2.50 to $5 per square foot.
What is LVP flooring?
At its heart, plank vinyl floor, also called luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl floor (LVF), is simply vinyl flooring that comes in long, narrow strips rather than the traditional square tile shapes. But structurally this is a different product.
What is a plank floor?
At its heart, plank vinyl floor, also called luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl floor (LVF), is simply vinyl flooring that comes in long, narrow strips rather than the traditional square tile shapes. But structurally this is a different product. Sheet vinyl is generally flexible vinyl with a printed top layer covered by a clear wear layer, while vinyl plank flooring is a multi-ply product that features four layers: 1 A topmost layer of aluminum oxide, designed to prevent light scratching and scuffs 2 A clear film layer that protects against more severe ripping and tearing 3 A design layer that provides the photo-realistic look of wood or stone 4 A backing layer made of fairly rigid vinyl, comprising almost 90 percent of the total thickness of luxury vinyl
What are the drawbacks of laminate flooring?
One of the biggest drawbacks to laminate flooring is the way it clicks and clatters under hard footsteps—unless it is installed with a resilient foam underlayment. Early forms of vinyl plank flooring were perfectly smooth, without the texturizing found in many laminate flooring products.
How thick is vinyl plank?
Vinyl flooring planks typically are 48 or 36 inches long.
What is the closest material to vinyl plank flooring?
The closest material from a composition standpoint to vinyl plank flooring is luxury vinyl tile. Here are the layers that comprise vinyl plank flooring from the bottom to the top.
What is luxury vinyl plank?
They have an intriguing price point and bring unique designs to the table, including shades that would be tough to pull off with wooden boards. There are some drawbacks, however, so we’re going to take a quick look at the pros and cons of LVP.
What is LVP flooring?
Otherwise known as luxury vinyl flooring or LVP, it’s the most popular style found in homes today. There’s a good reason for that, but before we talk about what makes this flooring special, ...
What is the wear layer on a floor plank?
Wear Layer. The wear layer is another part of the plank that can increase the price and not something you should overlook. This transparent layer will vary in thickness and protects your floor from the rigors of daily life. That includes scuffs and scratches from pet paws.
What is a topcoat on a floor?
The topcoat is another optional layer typically found on premium products. The topcoat acts as an additional layer of protection and features various technologies from a simple PU layer to a ceramic bead overlay. If you expect your flooring to see a lot of daily foot traffic, consider a company that offers products with a topcoat.
Does LVP outlast wood?
Top-quality LVP can actually outlast laminate and wood when properly cared for – especially in areas that are prone to moisture. Style – Another reason we are big fans of vinyl plank flooring is the fact it’s available in so many styles.
Is vinyl plank flooring waterproof?
Others provide a bit more flexibility, but most are completely waterproof. The core has a significant impact on vinyl flooring, so pay close attention to the middle layer when torn between two brands.
What is Vinyl Flooring made from?
When you hear the word “vinyl” a number of things can come to mind. This miraculous material is used in everything from records to siding and seat covers but is incredibly useful in the flooring industry as well. Simply put, vinyl refers to flooring made from PVC, which brings some unique properties to the table.
Types of Vinyl Flooring
Most homeowners today are only familiar with one form of vinyl flooring which is a form of luxury vinyl. While different manufacturers use a variety of techniques to set their products apart from the competition, all vinyl flooring sold today falls under one of two categories.
Where is Vinyl Flooring Used?
Some flooring surfaces are only suitable for certain areas in a home, while others are far more versatile. If you are wondering where the best place to use vinyl flooring is, the answer is anywhere. That’s partly because of its construction, but also thanks to an array of colors and styles.
Vinyl Flooring Pros and Cons
Vinyl flooring may sound like it’s the best type of flooring on the market, but there are also a few cons that go along with any type of flooring in this category. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider before deciding to use vinyl flooring in your home or business.
Conclusion
As the most popular form of synthetic flooring on the market today, vinyl is at the top of most homeowners' shopping lists. It’s a material we highly recommend for high-traffic areas, but one that will work in any area of your home. If you are considering installing new vinyl flooring, take a look at our list of the best brands in the industry.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Flooring Contractors
Let’s take a closer look to see what the best vinyl plank flooring options are for your needs.
Types of Vinyl Plank Flooring
There are three categories of vinyl plank flooring (or VPF): luxury VPF, rigid core VPF and waterproof VPF. Here is a look at the different types:
Best Vinyl Plank Flooring
High-traffic areas are not only used often, but they are seen often. That’s why you’ll want a surface with a rigid core that can hold up to foot traffic and also maintain a beautiful appearance year after year. This is an especially good option for homes that feature an open-concept floor plan. Pros
How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring Tips
How to install your vinyl plank flooring is very easy to install. Since they are considered floating floors, glue and nails are not required. Plus, your own weight will keep them in place. Typically, you can install vinyl plank flooring in a day or so.
The Advantages of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Not only is vinyl plank flooring easy to install on your own, but they are designed to resemble hardwood floors without the hassle of natural wood. They are also water-resistant, stain-resistant and easy to maintain.
The Disadvantages of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Although there are many pros to vinyl plank flooring, there are some cons to consider. For instance, vinyl plank flooring is not always easy to remove due to its adhesive. They also can be inconsistent when installing due to the thickness of the vinyl planks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Vinyl Plank Flooring
Regardless of what brand you choose for your vinyl plank flooring, or where it’s going to be installed, there are several key factors that you must first consider:
How much does vinyl plank flooring cost?
The cost of vinyl plank flooring is usually in the friendly $2-5 per square foot range. Compare that to some wood and stone options that can potentially be 2-3 times that cost.
What is the easiest flooring to clean?
Low-Maintenance and Easy to Clean. Vinyl planks might be the easiest flooring type of all to clean and maintain. It can be vacuumed, swept, or mopped with mild detergents to keep looking beautiful for years to come.
Is standard 2 vinyl flooring waterproof?
These planks are completely waterproof, highly durable, and resistant to dents, making them ideal for any room of the home.
Does vinyl fade in sunlight?
2. May Fade Slightly in Direct Sunlight. Over time, many floor types may slightly fade in direct sunlight, including vinyl and wood. If the area will be exposed to lots of UV, consider a wood-look tile instead.
Is vinyl flooring biodegradable?
Overall, vinyl is a very durable product, and since it is not organic like wood flooring, it will not biodegrade. Consider eco-friendly flooring if this is important to you. 5. Can be Difficult to Remove. Some vinyl plank floors do not have the click lock method of installation, so they have to be glued down instead.
What is vinyl plank flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring is a modern miracle that gives homeowners the luxurious look and longevity of hardwood floors without the warping, water damage, staining or scratching. The look of classic hardwood floors for less money and upkeep?
What are the different types of vinyl plank flooring?
There are three main types of vinyl plank flooring: luxury vinyl plank flooring, rigid core vinyl plank flooring and waterproof vinyl plank flooring. Each of these options has similar characteristics, but some may be better equipped for your home than others based on your needs. Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP)
Why is vinyl plank flooring important?
It’s important to invest wisely when selecting floors for a home blessed with active kids and pets. These vinyl plank floor picks are built to withstand all the action in high-traffic areas and lively households with textured finishes, sound-minimizing cores and scuff-proof design.
What is click and lock flooring?
Roll up your sleeves, throw on some work gloves and transform your home over a weekend with easy click-and-lock vinyl plank flooring. The unique click design allows for quick and seamless DIY installation atop any existing flat subfloors including granite, tile, laminate and cement.
Is solid hardwood flooring considered luxury?
Solid hardwood floors have an extensive history steeped in status and luxury that dates back hundreds of years. The posh plank flooring continues to be one of the most revered and sought-after interior features for homeowners and designers today — and for good reason. Hardwood flooring provides homeowners with endless versatility, ...
Do hardwood floors need to be refinished?
Hardwoods are susceptible to scratching and scuffing in high-traffic areas (or homes with pets and kids!) and are vulnerable to water damage and the warping, creaking and leaking that comes with it. Wood floors require vigilant care to maintain appearances and will require repair and refinishing over the years.
Is vinyl plank flooring waterproof?
The life-proof planks are also waterproof and serve as a fail-proof flooring solution for open floor plan designs. Waterproof vinyl plank flooring — or WPC — is similar to rigid core and luxury plank floorings but distinct in their advanced, 100-percent waterproof engineering.
