Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Installation

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Installation


The installation process for Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is relatively straightforward, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:
 

1. Preparation

 
  • Acclimation: Allow the LVP to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity by storing it in the space where it will be installed for at least 48 hours.
  • Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Remove any old flooring if necessary and repair any imperfections.
  • Gather Tools and Materials: You’ll need a utility knife, tape measure, spacers, a straight edge, tapping block, pull bar, rubber mallet, and a jigsaw or miter saw for cutting planks.
 

2. Planning

 
  • Measure and Layout: Measure the room to determine the number of planks needed. Plan the layout to ensure the planks are staggered, giving a more natural look and avoiding aligning seams.
  • Expansion Gap: Leave a 1/4-inch expansion gap around the perimeter of the room to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the flooring.

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3. Installation

 
  • First Row: Start by placing the first row of planks along the longest wall. Ensure the first plank's tongue side faces the wall, and use spacers to maintain the expansion gap.
  • Stagger Joints: Begin the second row by cutting a plank to start with a different length, ensuring staggered seams for a more natural look. Continue laying planks row by row, clicking them into place.
  • Cutting Planks: Use a jigsaw or miter saw to cut planks as needed for fitting around obstacles or to complete the final row.
  • Tapping: Use a tapping block and rubber mallet to gently tap the planks into place, ensuring they lock together tightly.
 

4. Finishing

 
  • Last Row: Measure and cut the planks to fit the last row, maintaining the expansion gap. Use a pull bar to snugly fit the last row into place.
  • Trim and Moldings: Install baseboards or quarter-round moldings to cover the expansion gaps and complete the look.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Installation available in Waukesha, WI from My New Floors Inc.

5. Post-Installation

  • Clean-Up: Remove spacers and clean the floor to remove any dust or debris from the installation.
  • Allow for Settling: Wait at least 24 hours before placing furniture on the newly installed floor.