No matter if you are new to home improvement or an expert at DIY in the home, many steps can go wrong when it comes to the installation of luxury vinyl flooring. It can even happen to professional installers, so it’s best to know what kind of things can go wrong and identify them before it all goes a different shape than what you are expecting.
If you are planning on installing vinyl on your own, you should always consult with a professional fitter or joiner in regards to risks towards installation. However, the most common mistakes can be a mix of easy and not so easy to identify.
Underfloor Heating
Having underfloor heating is a great bonus for your home and helps to save on heating costs, but a big mistake that happens is in not identifying if the floor you put over it is right for the job.
If you have invested in real hardwood flooring, then that implementation of underfloor heating is a huge waste of your budget. Solid wood floors cannot withstand temperature fluctuations due to being a natural mineral, which means the wood will begin to contract and expand and very quickly your floor planks will begin to rise and split.
Many other types of flooring can handle an underfloor heating system, with Quick-Step luxury vinyl offering the authentic replicated look of natural wood whilst not being victim to its weaknesses.
Moisture Levels
When it comes to moisture and humidity, your floor can be faced with a threat in kitchens and bathrooms.
Many hardwood floors fall victim to sustained water and moisture in the air where damage to the boards will soon follow. As these rooms are constant for the element of water, you need to be sure the floor is high in water resistance and changes in the room temperature. Solid or engineered wood is not a good product for these rooms as it will swell and absorb liquids. Laminate and vinyl flooring are much safer due to their protective qualities as well as their replicated look.
Luxury vinyl flooring can also provide a look of stone or ceramic in its planks and tile ranges.
Joining
If you have purchased luxury vinyl flooring that utilises a tongue and groove design for installation, then you need to prepare your subfloor by levelling it out.
Doing this task ensures it is clear of debris or broken tiles so that you can then begin to lay your floor right, but this will require the use of an adhesive that is suitable. Many brands of flooring have their preferred adhesive so be sure that you use the right solution and not one that is not recommended for the particular brand.
If in any doubt over your work, be sure to contact a professional for guidance and advice. Avoiding these common mistakes when it comes to vinyl flooring goes a long way to ensuring the product lasts its expected lifespan and looks great.