Vinyl / Resilient Flooring Installation – WFCA

Life would be some much easier if we all had magicians in the family. You know someone who could levitate the furniture while rolling out our new vinyl flooring and then, with a mere wiggle of the nose, the job would be done! We all know it's not that easy and it can be stressful. But knowledge is power. Here's our list of what you can expect before, during and after installation.

The No-Stress Pro

Sure your ex-girlfriend's brother's uncle can do this for you wholesale, but trust your retailer to recommend a professional to install your new flooring. It's not an easy process. In fact, even the best Do-It-Yourselfers should resist the urge.

Click here to find a professional vinyl flooring installer in your area.

The Shape of Your Substrate

The surface on which the vinyl flooring will be laid is called the substrate. Are you installing over wood, concrete or old vinyl? Each has its own special preparation. Your substrate may require an underlayment. No, not an undergarment but it is an additional layer. An underlayment will add height to your floor and may affect your appliances and counters.

In order for your warranty to be upheld, many manufacturers require moisture testing if you are installing vinyl over concrete. Make sure your installer can do this for you.

And if you are still thinking about doing this yourself, only a true professional will be able to tell if you can install your new vinyl over your old vinyl. Be sure to ask.

Hows your subfloor?

Your existingsubfloor may need to be prepared to receive the vinyl flooring, or a new subfloor may be required. We suggest you discuss this with your retailer and, if subfloor work is necessary, that it be done by qualified professionals. It is important that the subfloor be as clean and level as possible. That helps insure your new vinyl flooring will be beautiful and well supported.

Installation Methods

There are three methods used to install vinyl flooring depending on the manufacturer and the style:

Before the Big Day

Call a friend, hire a team, do whatever you need to do, but make sure you remove furniture and other stuff from the room in which your new vinyl flooring will be installed. You probably dont want installers handling your precious things and they may charge you extra for the opportunity.

If you have gas appliances, contact the Gas Company about safely disconnecting and reconnecting these pieces. Ask your retailer about disconnecting and reconnecting such items as icemakers, stereo equipment and computers; and the removal of heavy items like pianos.

Also, consult with your retailer to determine if you will be charged to have your toilet moved out and replaced if your are putting new flooring in your bathroom. If they cant do it, you may need a plumber.

Good Temps

The area of installation must be climate controlled (heated or air conditioned). Indoor humidity should be maintained between 45-65%.

The Old Flooring

Will your new flooring be installed over your existing floor covering, or do you want your existing floors or carpets removed before the new one is put in? Removal of old flooring or carpeting can be time consuming and someone has to haul it away and dispose of it responsibly. Be sure to discuss the situation with your installer and assume that at least one day will be spent on removal, cleanup and preparation.

Choose a Trim

Doors

Interior doors often have space at the bottom to accommodate new flooring. If yours do, then youre good to go. If yours dont or theyre cut for something lower than the floor youre installing, you may need a qualified carpenter to cut or shave the bottom of each affected door. Check with your installer about their door policy.

Clean Up

Vinyl flooring installation results in lots of trash old carpets or floors, plastic wrapping, remnants, fast food containers. Talk to your retailer or installer about his or her clean up policy and what is done with remnants. You may want to save some leftover pieces of vinyl for future repairs just in case.

Take A Day Off

Its a good idea to be home on the day your new floor is installed. Inevitably, questions will be asked. Decisions will need to be made. And nobody has an eye for the details of your home like you do. So take a vacation day, call in sick, work from home just be there.

Watch From A Distance

Razor blades and stringy glue can make your vinyl installation area hazardous to the health of your children and pets. Find a comfortable space in another room or outdoors while the work is taking place.

Conduct A Walk-Thru

Before your installer leaves, walk through the installation area together to ensure that every last detail meets or exceeds your expectations. Ask questions and make sure that you approve of both the product and the installation before making your final payment.

After the Install

Madness to the Method

Final Tips

The hard part is over. Its time to relax and enjoy your new floor.

Photo: Armstrong - Multi Stone - Carmel Gold

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Vinyl / Resilient Flooring Installation - WFCA