Luxury vinyl wood flooring has become a popular choice due to its durability, affordability, and realistic wood
appearance. Whether you are planning to revamp your home or renovating a commercial space, vinyl wood flooring
provides an excellent solution that replicates the look of traditional hardwood without the high cost or
maintenance. This guide will walk you through the process of installing luxury vinyl wood flooring, step by step.
1. Prepare the Subfloor: Begin by cleaning the subfloor thoroughly to ensure a solid base for your vinyl planks.
Remove any existing flooring, debris, or level irregularities. Make necessary repairs to the subfloor and ensure
it is dry and smooth. It is recommended to use a self-leveling compound for any minor imperfections on the floor.
Sanding high spots may also be required to achieve a level surface. For concrete subfloors, consider applying a
moisture barrier to prevent any moisture-related issues.
2. Acclimate the Flooring: Unbox the luxury vinyl wood planks and allow them to acclimate to the room’s
temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the planks to adjust to the
environment, reducing the risk of expansion or contraction after installation.
3. Plan the Layout: Before installation, plan the layout of your vinyl wood flooring. Start by finding the
midpoint of the room and use a chalk line to mark it. Dry lay the planks from the centerline to the walls on
both sides, ensuring a balanced appearance. It is advisable to use staggered placements rather than aligning
seams directly, as this adds stability and enhances the visual appeal of the flooring.
4. Install the Flooring: Begin the installation process by applying a suitable adhesive to the subfloor. Follow
the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended adhesive type and spreading technique. Start laying the
planks from the centerline and work towards the edges, connecting them tightly by aligning the tongue and groove
system. To cut the planks to fit around obstacles, use a utility knife or a vinyl cutter. For a professional
finish, leave a small expansion gap around the perimeter of the room to accommodate any potential movement. Once
all the planks are installed, roll the flooring with a heavy roller to ensure proper adhesion.
5. Finishing Touches: After installing the luxury vinyl wood flooring, it is important to take some finishing
steps. Install transition strips to cover any gaps between the vinyl and adjacent flooring materials. Use a
suitable trim or baseboard to hide the expansion gap along the walls. Lastly, clean the flooring with a
recommended vinyl cleaner to remove any adhesive residue or marks.
Luxury vinyl wood flooring provides an excellent solution for achieving the aesthetic of traditional hardwood.
By following these steps, you can install your luxury vinyl wood flooring and transform your space into a
stylish and sophisticated environment. Remember to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully as they may
have specific recommendations or variations depending on the product you have chosen.