How To Lay Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Concrete

How to Professionally Install Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Concrete

Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. While it can be installed over various subfloors, this article will focus specifically on the steps involved in laying vinyl plank flooring over concrete.

Materials Required:

Vinyl plank flooring
Underlayment (vapor barrier or acoustic underlayment)
Moisture barrier (if necessary)
Spacers
Utility knife
Tapping block
Hammer
Tape measure
Chalk line

Step 1: Prepare the Concrete Subfloor

Ensure the concrete subfloor is clean, level, and dry. Remove any debris or dirt using a vacuum cleaner or broom. Check for any cracks or unevenness, and fill or level them with a suitable concrete patch.

Step 2: Install the Underlayment

Roll out a vapor barrier or acoustic underlayment over the concrete subfloor. These underlayments provide moisture protection and reduce sound transmission.

Step 3: Determine the Starting Point

Snap a chalk line perpendicular to the longest wall in the room. This will serve as your starting point for the first row of planks.

Step 4: Install the First Row

Place spacers along the wall to create an expansion gap. Remove the tongue from the end of the first plank and insert it into the corner. Tap the plank into place using a tapping block and hammer.

Step 5: Continue Laying the Planks

Align the tongue of the next plank with the groove of the previous plank. Angle the plank slightly and tap it into place with the tapping block. Repeat this process, staggering the joints for stability.

Step 6: Cut and Install Around Obstacles

Use a utility knife to trim the planks around obstacles such as door frames and pipes. Measure and mark the cut lines on the planks, then score and snap the planks along the lines.

Step 7: Trim the Perimeter

After laying the last row of planks, measure and trim them to fit along the perimeter of the room. Use a utility knife or a circular saw for precise cuts.

Step 8: Remove Spacers and Clean

Once the flooring is complete, remove the spacers and vacuum or sweep the floor to remove any debris. Enjoy your newly installed vinyl plank flooring!

Tips:

Allow the flooring to acclimate to the room for 24-48 hours before installation.
Use a tapping block to avoid damaging the planks.
Stagger the joints of adjacent rows to create a more stable floor.
Leave an expansion gap of 1/4 inch around the perimeter of the room to allow for contraction and expansion.
Clean the floor regularly with a damp mop and a mild cleaning solution.