Expert Tips For Installing MSI's Luxury Vinyl Flooring

MSI offers a wide range of beautiful, durable luxury vinyl flooring options suitable for any room in your home. Whether you choose the Dry Back glue down or Rigid Core click lock varieties, proper installation is key to achieving professional-looking results that will last for years. Follow these expert tips for a successful luxury vinyl flooring installation.

Prepare the Subfloor

Regardless of the installation method, a properly prepared subfloor is essential.

• Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, smooth, and free of debris and contaminants.
• For concrete subfloors, use MSI's Concrete and Floor Primer to create an ideal surface for bonding vinyl flooring adhesive.
• Repair any uneven spots, as the subfloor must be flat to within 1/8" per 6 feet.

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Installing Dry Back Glue Down Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Installing dry back glue down luxury vinyl flooring is straightforward. Following these essential steps ensures a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

1. Select the appropriate adhesive for your project, such as MSI's Universal Pressure Sensitive LVT Adhesive or Multi-Use LVT Adhesive.
2. Apply the adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions, using the recommended trowel size and allowing for proper open time.
3. Lay planks parallel to the longest wall.
4. Use a roller to ensure proper adhesion and remove any air bubbles.

See MSI’s Gluedown Installation Guide for full details.

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Installing Rigid Core Click Lock Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Installing rigid core click lock luxury vinyl flooring is a user-friendly process that creates a seamless and professional look when following these key steps.

1. Begin the first row with the tongue side facing the wall, using 1/4" spacers to maintain an expansion gap.
2. Use a rubber mallet and tapping block to gently tap the planks together, ensuring a tight fit.
3. Stagger the end joints by at least 8" for a natural, random appearance.

See MSI’s Rigid Core Installation Guide for full details.

Cutting and Fitting

Achieving a professional finish with your luxury vinyl flooring involves precise cutting and careful fitting, following these essential tips.

• Make precise cuts using a sharp utility knife and straight edge or a power miter saw for more complex cuts.
• When fitting planks around obstacles like door frames, use a pull bar to lock the last row in place.

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Acclimation and Climate Control

Proper acclimation and climate control are crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of MSI's luxury vinyl flooring, especially in areas with variable temperatures.

• While MSI's luxury vinyl flooring does not require acclimation in most residential settings, it's important to maintain a consistent temperature between 65-85°F (18-29°C) before, during, and after installation.
• For installations in areas with more extreme temperatures, such as sunrooms or cabins, allow the flooring to acclimate for at least 12 hours prior to installation.

Finishing Touches

Our Everlife^® luxury vinyl flooring provides a refined finish with transition pieces, trims, and adhesives. These small details significantly impact the overall look of your project, so include them in your plan from the beginning.

When transitioning luxury vinyl planks to stairs, you can choose between an overlapping stair nose and a flush stair nose tread. Both perform the same function, but they look different. The flush stair nose offers a contemporary, clean look, while the overlapping stair nose, with its visible edge, provides a more classic appearance.

Use an end cap or surface reducer to manage height differences for smooth transitions between luxury vinyl and carpet in different rooms. Use an end cap when the doorway and vinyl planks are at the same level and a surface reducer when there's a height difference between the floors.

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Connect with MSI for More Information

Check out our luxury vinyl installation video for more detailed instructions and tips. By following these expert tips and guidelines provided by MSI, you can confidently install your new floors and enjoy its beauty and durability for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, MSI's LVF will continue to look great and perform well in even the busiest households.

Want to learn more about all the luxury vinyl flooring options MSI offers? Chat with us online, visit a nearby MSI showroom, or find a local authorized MSI retailer for more information.

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