Many people choose to install vinyl flooring themselves, but it is important to be educated and prepare properly before you start your flooring project. Otherwise, you are bound to encounter frustration and spend much more time than anticipated completing your flooring installation. If you follow these simple steps you will be sure to set yourself up for success.

Choose your Flooring

Although this may seem like an obvious point, a lot more goes into the selection of vinyl flooring than you may think. It is important to consider, for example, the type of room you will be installing your vinyl flooring. This will affect how durable you need the vinyl to be, which will be affected by the thickness of the flooring.

Make a Sketch of the Room

It’s important to make a sketch of the room that you will be installing the vinyl flooring in. Make sure that your measurements are accurate to the room’s dimensions. Take this drawing and measurements with you to the manufacturer or retail store to help you figure out the amount of vinyl you need for your project. A good tip is to add a few inches to each dimension…it’s better to have too much (or extra) material than not enough.

Prepare the Subfloor

Check on the condition of the subfloor before you begin your installation project. Make sure that the subfloor is in good condition and nothing needs to be repaired or replaced. This means that the floor should be level and dry. Fill in any holes or low-lying areas with appropriate patching compounds and wait for them to dry before laying your vinyl flooring.

Cut the Vinyl Flooring

Lay out the vinyl flooring and mark the areas where excess will need to be trimmed. Use a strong and sharp utility knife to cut away the edges and make sure to save any scrap pieces. You never know when they may come in handy during the installation process or down the road to replace damaged pieces.

Lay the Vinyl Flooring

Place the vinyl in position on the floor and make what are called relief cuts around any obstructions in the room (support beams, that sort of thing).

Roll out Craft Paper

This isn’t a joke. Roll back the vinyl flooring and expose the subfloor. You are going to then use craft paper to create a template along the wall and apply double-sided tape to secure the vinyl flooring to the craft paper template.

Cut the Vinyl

Once you have lifted the vinyl with the craft paper template attached, carefully trim away the edges of the vinyl flooring. It’s recommended to use a piece of scrap wood underneath your cutting line so that you don’t damage the flooring if the knife slips or cuts too deep.

Adhere the Vinyl

Once you have your vinyl trimmed appropriately, you are ready to spread adhesive material around the perimeter of the floor. Make sure to spread it evenly and then gently press the vinyl flooring down. You can use a wooden block wrapped in a towel to apply even and firm pressure around the perimeter of the room in order to secure the adhesive. If you are having trouble installing vinyl flooring in your home The Floor Shop has a talented team that would be more than happy to help. Give us a call today and don’t spend any more time worrying about your renovation.