The surface you are installing the vinyl plank flooring over must be flat. Remove the existing flooring and examine the underlying surface carefully to see if it can be reused. If not, it will have to be removed using a pry bar. Any nails left behind will need to be banged down so that the heads do not protrude. Patch any damaged parts in the subfloor with a piece of plywood of the same thickness.
If you are installing a floor for the first time, you can use a floor scraper or a belt sander to ensure there are no high spots in the subfloor. After you have scraped or sanded the floor, sweep or vacuum the surface to remove any traces of dirt or debris.
Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Another Flooring Material
You can install your new vinyl flooring over another floor, such as tile, as long as it is flat and in good condition. You would have to go over the existing floor with a self-levelling compound to make sure that all the grout joints are flush first. This will ensure that your new floor will lie flat and that there will not be any tell-tale indentations in your new floor.
Perimeter of the Room
Leave a gap around the perimeter of the room so that the materials in your floor can expand and contract with changes in temperature. The gap near the baseboards should be between 1/4-3/4”and will be covered up when the baseboards are in place. You have some flexibility, depending on the thickness your baseboards.
If you are installing vinyl plank flooring in a bathroom and the plank will be against the bathtub or a cabinet instead of a baseboard, leave a gap as you normally would. The space would be filled with caulking instead of covered over by baseboard material.
Laying vinyl plank flooring can be done by a homeowner, but if you prefer to have the work done for you, Tony’s Flooring Centre offers professional installation services. Contact us to schedule your installation appointment.]]>
What should Toronto homeowners know about laying vinyl plank flooring?
When considering laying vinyl plank flooring, evaluate durability, maintenance requirements, and cost per square foot for your specific needs. Tony’s Flooring Centre at 268 Royal York Rd offers expert advice and free estimates to help you make the right choice for your Toronto home.
Is luxury vinyl plank waterproof?
Yes, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is 100% waterproof, making it ideal for Toronto kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Unlike laminate, LVP will not swell or warp when exposed to moisture, even during seasonal humidity changes.
Can vinyl plank be installed over existing floors?
In most cases, yes. LVP can be installed directly over existing hard surfaces like tile, concrete, or old vinyl using a click-lock floating system. This saves time and money on demolition. A smooth, level subfloor is required for best results.
Need Help Choosing the Right Flooring?
With over 60 years of experience, Tony’s Flooring Centre makes choosing the right floor easy. From hardwood and carpet to eco-friendly cork and marmoleum, we carry it all. Visit us at 268 Royal York Rd, call (416) 255-9631, or contact us online.
