Vinyl Flooring Installation Guide

Site Inspection and Pre-Installation Preparations:

The first step for pre-installation inspection is checking the signs of moisture. Although Mike’s Carpets Flooring & Blinds Centre vinyl flooring is waterproof, the subfloor moisture reduces adhesive performance. Ensure that the subfloor is completely dry.

A poor drainage system, leakage in external plumbing, and blocked downpipes will allow moisture to build up under the property. In addition, proper ventilation underneath the structure prevents moisture from building up below the substrate.

Check for leaky equipment, furniture, and fixtures inside your home. Look for watermarks around doors, fridge walls, dishwashers, and washing machines. Make sure that sinks and shower basins are adequately sealed.

Maintain room temperature of 15-30 degrees for optimal laying conditions, and humidity levels should be between 20-70%. Lastly, ensure that the subfloor level meets the Australian standard to ensure correct adhesion. As per AS1884 standard, the subfloor must not exceed 4mm deviation under 2m straightedge. Ensure the subfloor is clean, flat, dry, smooth, and levelled before installation.

Acclimatise your vinyl floors by keeping the delivered packs near or in the installation area for nearly twenty-four hours until the product has reached the ambient room temperature range of 15-28 degrees.

Installation:

Step 1:

Access the layout of the room to determine the starting point and the centre of the room, and mark the line using a chalk line or straighthead.

Step 2:

Measure the total width of the room (wall to wall), and divide the measurement by the width of the tile or plank. If the last plank is shorter than 1/3rd its width, you need to move the centre point accordingly. It will allow plank or tile to be trimmed more than 1/3rd width at the spot where the material meets the wall.

Step 3:

Start cutting the first row once you have determined the layout. Typically, the first board will not be cut in length unless the last board is less than 150mm as per the layout. Initially, dry fit all the rows (without adhesive) to ensure that the layout is aligned, and check where the floor will finish at each wall.

Step 4:

Once you are assured about the starting point, apply the adhesive to the subfloor along the line, where you will install the first few rows. Follow adhesive manufacturer instructions for selecting the proper notched trowel. If any adhesive gets on the vinyl surface during the process, wipe it immediately using an adhesive removal wipe or wet rug.

Step 5:

Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s advice to determine how much “tack-up” time is needed before laying the materials on the adhesive. The time varies depending on the type of adhesive and environmental conditions.

Step 6:

Once the adhesive is ready, start laying the pre-cut rows. You need to ensure that the material remains straight and square during the process.

Step 7:

Cut several rows at a time and apply an adhesive unit until you reach the last row, where the floor meets the wall or other vertical surfaces like the cabinet. You can use a combination square to ensure that the rows are lined up with the previous row.

Step 8:

When cutting the last row to width, you need to place one uncut board on the second last row to determine the perfect size. Place one more board on top of it, but make sure that it’s hard up against the finishing wall. It will give you a clear idea for marking the dry laid board in the second last row and cutting it as per the required size.

Step 9:

You need to repeat step 8 at every vertical surface. When you cannot use the material due to uneven vertical surfaces or unusually shaped objects, use a measuring tape to transfer dimensions onto the board that needs to be cut.

Step 10:

Once you are done with successfully laying all the planks or tiles, use a 45kg roller to roll over the floor in both directions. It will help in bedding the material into adhesive completely and eliminate air pockets if there are any.

This is the basic guideline for installing vinyl planks and tiles. If you are completely unfamiliar with the process, you may need to take advice from a qualified flooring installer.

Preventive Care Tips for Vinyl Flooring (Bonus):

Hybrid flooring is designed to maintain optimum functionality and timeless appeal for a long time. However, your newly installed floor will demand some maintenance care from time to time. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your flooring.

• Clean your vinyl floor using dry cleaning methods, such as a microfibre
• Spray and mop system, soft broom or vacuum with a soft brush attachment.
• Regularly remove grit and dirt from the surface as it will prevent the surface from scratching.
• Use a PH-neutral Floor Cleaner to remove water soluble dirt.
• Use runners or area rugs for the areas where heavy foot traffic is expected.
• Use protective mats at all entrances.
• Avoid using rubber-based furniture as rubber may leach into the floor.
• Sweep or vacuum the floor as often as necessary.
• Use slightly damp mops, and never steam mops to clean the floor.
• Use blinds and curtains to avoid direct exposure to sunlight.

Summary

Vinyl flooring installation is an easy process if you have all the required information and tools with you. We hope this step-by-step guide will boost your confidence in DIY vinyl flooring installation. At Mike’s Carpets Flooring & Blinds Centre, we meet all your flooring requirements in the best possible way. For any questions, contact our expert at 1300 365 887 or email us at contactus@mikescarpets.com.au.