LUXURY VINYL INSTALLATION
What to expect and how to prepare your luxury vinyl flooring installation.
Preparation & Planning
Taking the time to prepare your room for your luxury vinyl flooring installation will help ensure a smooth, efficient, and successful experience.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Scheduling and Timelines
Your retailer will work with you to schedule an installation date and time that works for you. Your retailer may have an in-house installer or may work with you to find an installer for your luxury vinyl flooring installation project.
Room Preparation
Before the installers arrive, you'll need to clear the room of all furniture and belongings. Remove any existing flooring, such as old carpet or tile. For large or heavy items, consider asking for assistance or professional moving services. All of these services may be provided by the installer but may not be included in the initial installation price.
Subfloor Preparation
Before installation begins, your subfloor will need to meet certain requirements and may need some additional prep work. One of the keys to a successful installation is proper subfloor prep. This step should never be skipped!
Pre-Installation Tips
Make sure to inspect the flooring material for any visible defects prior to installing. Undercut door jambs and always work from multiple cartons to achieve a uniform appearance. To avoid future issues ALWAYS leave an expansion space around the perimeter of your floor. Expansion space may vary based on the type of luxury vinyl floor that is being installed.
Choosing Your Installer
While luxury vinyl flooring is DIY-friendly, professional installation is always an option.
QUESTIONS TO ASK
Experience and Certifications
- How many years of experience do you have installing vinyl flooring?
- Are you certified by any industry organizations?
Licensing and Insurance
- Are you bonded and insured?
- Can you provide proof of insurance?
Warranty Information
- What warranties do you offer on your labor?
References and Portfolio
- Can you provide references from previous clients?
- Do you have a portfolio of your installation work?
Cost Estimates and Payment Terms
- Can you provide a detailed cost estimate including additional labor for old flooring removal and subfloor prep?
- What are your payment terms?
The Installation Process
Below you'll find a general overview of the vinyl flooring installation process:
Pre-Installation
Your vinyl flooring should be inspected prior to installation. While acclimation is not required, your luxury vinyl flooring should be installed in a climate-controlled environment. Correct preparation and planning is a major part of a successful installation.
Will I Need to Provide Tools?
Your installer will bring all the tools they need to complete your installation. If you plan to DIY this project, be sure to reference the installation documents on this page to ensure that you gather the right tools. You've invested in your flooring purchase, don't take shortcuts with tools.
Subfloor Preparation
Subfloor preparation work may need to be completed prior to your vinyl flooring installation. Your installer should outline the steps they will be taking to ensure your subfloor is ready for your new vinyl flooring. This step may add some time to the project but it's worth the wait!
Underlayment
If an underlayment is needed, your installer will lay this out prior to beginning installation or as they begin installing. The selection of the underlayment should be something discussed with your retailer when you're making your vinyl flooring purchase. Not all floors will require underlayment so be sure to ask!
Getting Started
Remove all doors and shoe moldings, undercut door casings, determine the starter wall and direction for your vinyl flooring. Always be sure to allow for the proper expansion space around the perimeter of your room and fixed objects. This will vary based on vinyl type.
Finishing Touches
Once your floor is installed, you can add accessories such as quarter rounds, transition strips and baseboards. The use of transition strips not only provides a pleasing finished look, it also protects the edges of the planks. The use of felt pads under furniture legs or heavy items is recommended.
Installation Guides
The installation procedure you use will depend on the type of floor you've selected. Product-specific installation guidelines can be found on the product pages on our website or you can find it listed here. If you're unsure of what installation procedure you should follow, you can chat with one of our friendly technical support specialists using the chat feature below.
LUXURY VINYL FLOORING INSTALLATION FAQS
Yes, in many cases, you can install LVT/LVP over existing flooring, provided the surface is flat, clean, and in good condition. It's essential to follow the Shaw installation guidelines and recommendations before installing.
Yes! Be sure to choose a product specifically designed for such environments, such as Shaw Floors’ Floorté Classic Series, and follow the Shaw installation instructions meticulously.
The time required for installation depends on the chosen method, room size, and your experience. Keep in mind that subfloor preparation could add some time to your project but it is necessary to ensure a successful installation.
While luxury vinyl is DIY-friendly, professional installation is always a safe option, especially if you're not confident in your skills or if you have a large or complex area to cover.
RESOURCES
The preparation, planning, and overview steps listed on this page do not cover all carpet installation scenarios. Always refer to the downloadable guidelines for detailed installation information.