Luxury Vinyl Flooring Installation
Whether you hire a Pro or DIY, these tips will ensure a smooth and easy installation.
Installing luxury vinyl tile? The more prepared you are, the more likely it is that you'll experience a high-quality, low-stress installation. Here are some important things to consider before, during and after the floors go in.
Installation Instructions
Before You Buy
Know your installation options.
Installation methods vary among luxury vinyl flooring products, so check the "Installation" section on the product page. Some products come with a self-adhesive that you peel, place and press. Most others offer one of our locking systems, where boards connect to each other and "float" over the subfloor. Many can also be installed with glue, if desired.
Create an accurate budget.
Don't forget to account for things like removal and disposal of your old floor, subfloor repairs, additional tools and materials, and even the cost of moving furniture when budgeting for your project.
Decide whether to DIY or bring in a Professional.
If you are an advanced DIYer or already know how to install luxury vinyl tile or plank flooring, you may feel confident taking on the installation yourself — especially if it's a flooring project in a small spaces like a bathroom or laundry room and no adhesive is required. Products with an easy peel-and-place self-adhesive are ideal for beginner DIYers.
Regardless of your experience level, challenges can arise in any flooring installation. If you want peace of mind that your flooring is installed correctly, we recommend hiring a professional flooring installer.
WHY HIRE A FLOORING CONTRACTOR?
Hiring a Pro? Find the best one for the job.
Ask your retailer to connect you to a local Armstrong Flooring Certified Installer. These contractors are exclusively trained to install our products, so you can rest assured that your new floor will not only look great, but will be installed correctly with guaranteed results.
Preparation
Read the installation instructions.
Carefully review the detailed instructions for your flooring to learn what you'll need and what to expect. Do this well in advance. The instructions will also contain precautionary statements regarding certain types of existing flooring and specific preparation requirements if your's is a remodel project.
Prepare the room.
Clear out furniture. Remove and dispose of old flooring if necessary. Gently remove any wall base, millwork or trim that you'd like to reuse.
Prepare the subfloor.
Be sure the floor you're laying over is dry, clean and flat. If repairs are needed, make those before starting the installation.
Gather additional materials and tools.
Your list could include coordinated trims and moldings, underlayment, a tile cutter or utility blade, and other tools. Check your installation instructions for specifics.
Acclimate flooring according to instructions, if necessary.
Most luxury vinyl tile and planks do not require acclimation. Review your installation instructions, because there may be certain circumstances, such as flooring being stored in extreme temperatures, when a short period of acclimation is necessary. This step gives the flooring time to adjust to the environment of the room where it will be installed.
During Installation
Depending on the type of luxury vinyl floor you’ve chosen, installation instructions will vary. Read every step of the ones provided with your product.
They outline important details and special considerations that might not be obvious, except to an experienced professional, including: subfloor and underlayment requirements, preparing trim, and establishing a starting point.
If you or your professional installer has questions before or during installation, contact our Customer Service team.
After Installation
Once your new floors are in place, clear tools and materials from the area and clean the floor with the recommended cleaner for vinyl floors. Do not wet mop your new floor for at least five days if you used a self-adhesive or glue-down installation.