How To Install Luxury Vinyl Flooring To Get Professional Results

The rise in popularity of Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF) among homeowners can be attributed to its outstanding characteristics and adaptability. LVF seamlessly merges the visual appeal of natural elements like wood and stone with the functionality of contemporary flooring solutions. At MSI, our wood-look luxury vinyl planks and natural stone-look luxury vinyl tiles go a step further, boasting 100% waterproof properties and an array of additional advantages. These benefits include effortless maintenance and exceptional durability, thanks to our exclusive CrystaLux^™ protection layer technology. Furthermore, our extensive array of colors and designs positions us as the preferred choice for those in search of a captivating and enduring flooring solution.

Another primary reason homeowners are increasingly opting for luxury vinyl flooring is its hassle-free installation process. You don't need prior experience or complex machinery to complete your project in a top-notch manner. Even if you're a DIY enthusiast, achieving professional results is within your reach. Here, we'll explore some valuable tips for installing your new vinyl flooring, drawing insights from our online installation guidelines. 

Types of Luxury Vinyl Flooring

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Before you begin, it's crucial to determine which type of vinyl flooring you'll be installing: glue-down or a locking system. MSI offers both options for residential and commercial use. The Dryback Line is a flexible glue-down LVF with authentic wood looks, while the Rigid Core is a 100% waterproof LVF featuring an easy-install locking system, available in both wood and natural stone looks.

If you opt for glue-down vinyl flooring, make sure to use the appropriate products to prepare the floor and achieve the best results. MSI offers a range of products, including Concrete and Floor Primer to enhance bonding, Multi Use Vinyl Adhesive for strong bonding with low odor and water resistance, and Universal Pressure Sensitive LVF Adhesive for an aggressive tack with enhanced mold and mildew resistance. The Adhesive Cutback Sealer is also available for a clean surface resistant to mold and mildew. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for their use.

Preparing Your Floors

The first step towards a successful LVF installation is to prepare your floor or sub-floor adequately. The surface must be clean, smooth, flat, and dry. You should thoroughly vacuum or sweep the area and inspect for any squeaks or protruding screws. Depending on which type of flooring you have chosen, your LVF will be either glued down or locked in.

In the past, a vital step in the preparation process was allowing all vinyl flooring some time to acclimate, enabling it to adjust to the environmental conditions of the room. With our cutting-edge "no acclimation" technology, available on all of our rigid core vinyl flooring options, you can now purchase and install your new vinyl flooring on the very same day. This represents a substantial advantage for individuals looking to expedite the installation process!

Measuring and Cutting

When laying the floor, it's a common practice to run the LVF parallel to the longest wall in the room. To ensure a seamless installation, measure to check for any wall bulges. You can do this by measuring three inches out from the wall and using a laser to connect your markings. Re-measure along the wall to ensure everything aligns correctly.

Maintain a 1/4-inch gap around the perimeter of the room. This gap serves both expansion and contraction purposes and provides the flexibility to replace a damaged plank with a new one.

To maintain a square installation, build a few rows at a time. It's advisable to cut your tiles from the left side, as they will fit neatly under the trim. Rather than scoring and snapping the tiles, consider using a laminate floor cutter for quick, clean cuts. You can typically rent this tool at your local hardware store for an affordable price.

Locking In Click-To-Lock Tiles

If you're working with locking vinyl tiles, installation becomes more straightforward. While these pieces are designed to lock together automatically, using a small piece of plank instead of a tapping block and giving them a light tap ensures a secure fit. To secure the end joints, use a hand or seam roller.

Keep in mind that tapping can cause the floor to shift. To facilitate installation, ensure your floors are properly aligned and secure the flooring by screwing it down every six inches near the edge of the tile, where the quarter round will cover it. You can remove these screws once the installation is complete, leaving you with a smooth surface.

Complete the Look

To add the finishing touches to your new floor, explore our exquisite range of luxury vinyl flooring accessories! You'll discover a treasure trove of meticulously crafted add-ons designed to enhance the beauty and functionality of your luxury vinyl flooring. From coordinating trims and moldings that ensure a seamless transition between rooms to underlayment options that provide additional comfort and sound reduction, our accessories are tailored to meet your specific needs. We invite you to explore our collection, where every detail matters, and where you'll find the perfect finishing touches to make your flooring project a true masterpiece.

Unlock the Beauty of Luxury Vinyl Flooring

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MSI’s luxury vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for affordable and durable flooring that can withstand the demands of busy households. It comes in a variety of on-trend colors and patterns, allowing you to achieve the stylish look you desire quickly. Before you know it, your new flooring will be installed with ease.

If you're seeking a straightforward way to replace laminate, tile flooring, or carpet, luxury vinyl installation is an ideal choice. With proper prep work, step-by-step instructions, essential tips, tools, and materials, you can achieve professional, polished results. You can get started today and complete the project in just a few days, all while enjoying the benefits of a stunning new floor. If this approach appeals to you, explore our Installation Best Practices for more professional tips.

For those interested in delving deeper into luxury vinyl flooring, you can find comprehensive information in our online vinyl flooring guide. Additionally, we offer numerous vinyl flooring videos available to further educate yourself on LVF flooring styles, installation techniques, and maintenance. With these insights and resources at your disposal, you're well-equipped to embark on a successful LVF flooring installation project.

If you have questions or need additional information on MSI’s luxury vinyl flooring products and installation, reach out to us through our online chat option, visit a nearby MSI showroom, or contact your local authorized MSI retailer.

READ MORE ABOUT LUXURY VINYL FLOORING

Luxury Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide: Cost, Durability, and Design
How to Clean Your Luxury Vinyl Flooring Like a Pro
Revolutionize Your Surfaces with MSI's Top 5 Innovative Technologies
A Guide to MSI’s Real Wood and Wood-Look Flooring Collection