Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) click flooring has become a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability, ease of installation, and attractive appearance. If you’re considering installing LVT click flooring in your home, here’s a comprehensive guide covering all you need to know to ensure a successful installation.
Why Choose LVT Click Flooring?
LVT click flooring, known for its simple locking system, allows planks to seamlessly snap together. This installation method eliminates the need for adhesives, making it less messy and quicker than traditional glue-down methods. Moreover, its construction offers superior comfort and noise reduction compared to traditional flooring options.
Preparing for Installation
Tools and Materials Needed
To install LVT click flooring, you’ll need:
- A utility knife
- A rubber mallet
- Tapping block
- Spacers
- Measuring tape
- A pencil for marking
Pre-Installation Steps
- Acclimate the Flooring: Keep the LVT packages in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours prior to installation. This stabilizes the material, reducing expansion and contraction post-installation.
- Prepare the Surface: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any bumps or depressions can affect the locking mechanism, so thorough preparation is critical.
- Plan Your Layout: Measure the room and plan the layout to avoid narrow plank widths at the walls which can compromise stability and aesthetic.
Installation Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start at a Corner: Beginning in a corner of the room, place the first plank with its tongue side facing the wall. Use spacers to maintain a gap of about 10mm between the plank and the wall to allow for expansion.
- Lock the Planks: Insert the tongue of the next plank at an angle into the groove of the already placed plank. Lower it down and apply pressure until it clicks into place. Use a tapping block and rubber mallet to ensure a snug fit if necessary.
- Cut to Fit: When you reach the end of a row, you’ll likely need to cut the final plank to fit. Measure and mark where to cut, and use a utility knife to score and snap the plank.
- Continue the Process: Start the next row, ideally with the offcut from the last piece of the previous row to stagger the seams for added stability and visual appeal.
- Finish the Perimeter: Once all rows are placed, remove the spacers and add baseboards or quarter-round moulding to cover the expansion gap, securing them to the wall, not the flooring.
Post-Installation Tips
After installation, it’s important to care for the LVT flooring properly:
- Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratching.
- Lift rather than slide furniture when moving it.
- Regularly sweep and clean the floor with approved products.
- Wipe up spills promptly to avoid slips or stains.
Conclusion
Installing LVT click flooring can dramatically transform any room, enhancing its functionality and style. By understanding the essential pre-installation preparations, installation process, and maintenance tips, homeowners can ensure a successful installation and enjoy the long-term benefits of their beautiful, new LVT click flooring. Whether a novice or seasoned DIY enthusiast, the click-in-place design assures a feasible project with stunning results.
