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Choosing the right flooring for your home is a crucial decision. It can affect the look, feel, and resale value of your property significantly. If you are considering installing vinyl flooring, then this blog post will help you avoid seven mistakes that many homeowners make when installing it themselves!
Installing vinyl plank flooring for the first time? Here are 7 beginner mistakes and how you can avoid them! Click To TweetMistake #01: Forgetting insulation when installing vinyl plank flooring over plywood
When installing vinyl flooring, it is easy to forget about insulation.
Vinyl flooring can be an excellent option for homeowners who want attractive floors without the high cost of carpet installation or hardwood floor refinishing. However, if you do not follow proper insulation guidelines and install your new vinyl planks too close together, then you will soon regret it.
Mistake #02: Using the wrong underlayment
If you are installing vinyl flooring in a room used for cooking, then be sure to install the product over an underlayment such as cork or rubber. This option allows your hardworking kitchen staff (or family members) better traction and protects the vinyl planks from being scratched by pots and pans.
Mistake #03: Not measuring before laying vinyl plank flooring
Before you start installing vinyl flooring, be sure to measure the room carefully, as well as take note of any doorways or other entrances that may need maneuvering around when installing your new floors.
This is a good time to measure for thresholds, too, if they are not already in place!
Mistake #04: Wearing new clothes
If you are new to installing vinyl flooring, be sure that your using a pair of gloves and old clothes. Vinyl can stain clothes easily and will not come out in the laundry!
Mistake #05: Quickly cleaning up messes
Don’t forget to have a damp cloth nearby to wipe up any spills or drips before they set.
Vinyl flooring is not as forgiving of water damage and will start cracking if left too long withstanding liquid on it!
Mistake #06: Not opening windows
If you plan to use a power tool, be sure your work area is well-ventilated. The fumes that are released from cutting vinyl and adhesive can be hazardous to your health.
Mistake #07: Not installing moisture-resistant vinyl flooring in a bathroom
When installing flooring in an existing bathroom, be sure to use a moisture-resistant backing on the flooring so it doesn’t curl or peel up.
It will prevent slippage as well!
Conclusion
The mistakes made in the installation of a new vinyl floor can be avoided by following these tips. Make sure that you are using high-quality vinyl flooring and that the adhesive is applied correctly. Use a power tool to cut vinyl with care. Work in an adequately ventilated area while you’re cutting or applying adhesive so as not to inhale harmful fumes from the work materials.
“It’s only out of reach when you choose to keep your feet flat on the floor.”
―“To become a better you, admit that you were not born for the floor. Refuse to embrace mediocrity anytime anywhere.”
― Become a Better You
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Krystle Cook – the creator of Home Jobs by MOM – put her psychology degree on a shelf and dived into a pile of diapers and dishes instead. She is a wife and mother to two rambunctious boys, sweating it out in her Texas hometown. She loves cooking, DIY home projects, and family fun activities.
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A mistake I made was having the wrong contractor install my vinyl flooring. I wish I had read this first! Thanks for the article!
It’s important to get a good contractor when installing any type of flooring