How to install vinyl flooring in your home as a DIY project
Vinyl floors are fashionable and practical, and suitable for all rooms in the home, not just for kitchens and bathrooms. In this article, we walk you through the simple steps involved in laying a perfect vinyl floor.
Step 1: Preparation
As with all DIY projects, preparation is key. Start by removing the toilet, the basin pedestal, any existing floor covering and all other obstacles. Ensure that the subfloor is clean and dust-free, and that any rough areas or nails sticking up are fully dealt with.
It’s much easier to trim the bottom of the door frame, to allow the vinyl to fit underneath it, than it is to try to cut the vinyl to fit the door frame mouldings, so take time to do this, before starting to lay the flooring.
Step 2: Use a paper template
It’s tempting to skip this stage, but creating a full-size paper template will save time in the long run, and give a professional finish. It can be used to cut both the base and the vinyl itself.
Step 3: Lay the base
Use smooth plywood to create a good base for the flooring. Cut the plywood to shape, using the paper template, taking care with all the tricky bits, such as around doors, basin pedestals and so on. Use a professional staple tool to fix the plywood to the subfloor, so that there are no surface protrusions that could compromise the look of the vinyl, once it’s laid on top. Once the plywood is fixed in place, use caulk to carefully fill any tiny seams between the plywood sheets and around the edges.
Step 4: Lay the vinyl
Take care to read the flooring manufacturer’s instructions, as the method for cutting vinyl can vary from product to product. Online retailers, like UK Flooring Direct (http://www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk/), will always be able to offer professional advice on any special tools you need. You can even watch instructional videos on Youtube, if you need to.
If the vinyl has a pattern, consider how to initially position the vinyl for best effect, once it’s laid. Once you’ve cut the vinyl, roll it back halfway, and spread flooring adhesive evenly on the underfloor. Re-roll the floor, and then repeat with the other half.
Use caulk to finish all edges.
