Do I need to fill grout lines before laying vinyl plank flooring?

Author: Greta Huel  |  Last update: Friday, June 6, 2025

Grout lines can create a slightly uneven surface, and if not smoothed out, they might become visible through the LVP, creating an unsightly “telegraphing” effect. To prevent this, a self-leveling compound is your go-to solution.

How to fill grout lines for vinyl flooring without?

If your tiles are in great shape just fill the grout lines with thin-set mortar using a putty knife. Try to apply as gently as possible. * Once the mortar is dry in about 24-48 hours, you can sand any rough spots with sandpapers.

Will grout lines show through vinyl flooring?

The deep grout lines between the tiles may be troublesome when installing luxury vinyl flooring, primarily thin vinyl floors, where the grout lines may be “telegraph” and be seen through the vinyl floor, or with glue-down styles that need a solid surface to adhere to.

What prep is needed for vinyl plank flooring?

Start by cutting through paint sealing the baseboard and trim to the wall using a utility knife. Then use a pry bar to gently loosen. This step can make it easier to install vinyl plank floors. Prep your subfloor so it's clean, dry and level within 3/16-inch change per 10 feet.

What do you use to fill gaps in vinyl flooring?

As far as gaps between the tiles, I prefer using silicone caulk because its very workable and won't crack. The flexibility of caulk makes it ideal for both appearance and functionality. There are a ton of colors of caulk, but generally black and white are suitable depending on the color of your vinyl tile.

10 Tips For Installing Vinyl Over Tile

Why does my vinyl plank flooring keep pulling apart?

Multiple factors can cause planks to separate. Humidity levels or physical shifting due to high foot traffic can cause unsightly gaps between the ends of planks. This is more typically an issue with click-lock floors than with adhesive installations. Fortunately, this also is one of the easiest problems to fix.

Do you need spacers for vinyl planks?

Don't forget to insert spacers along the perimeter of the room. If you encounter irregular shapes like a floor duct, make a paper template then trace the pattern on the plank to cut.

Can you put vinyl plank flooring directly on the subfloor?

If the vinyl flooring product you choose doesn't have an attached underlayment, you can almost always install directly over the subfloor without one.

Can a beginner install vinyl plank flooring?

This project can be done in as little as an afternoon and is easy enough that even first-time home renovators can tackle it with relative ease. In this article, we'll take a look at how to install vinyl plank flooring in your house, step by step.

Do you need to leave a gap when installing vinyl plank flooring?

Luxury vinyl flooring is susceptible to slight expansions and contractions in response to changes in moisture and humidity levels. An expansion gap permits the flooring to adjust without distortion. Neglecting to incorporate this gap can lead to damage, particularly if the floor expands significantly.

Do you grout vinyl plank flooring?

No, you do not need grout if you choose luxury vinyl tile flooring. This is because there are grout lines within the tile. Visit us today to see what's in stock!

How do you hide seams in vinyl flooring?

Use a Seam Roller

Press Firmly Along Seams: Roll the seam roller along each seam with even pressure, pressing the edges down into the adhesive. Work from the Centre Outward: Start rolling from the centre of each plank or tile outward to eliminate air bubbles and ensure a flat, even surface.

Can mold grow through vinyl flooring?

Yes, mold can grow under vinyl flooring if moisture becomes trapped underneath the flooring material. Vinyl flooring is not a breathable material, which means that moisture cannot escape through the flooring.

Is it better to remove tile before installing vinyl plank flooring?

Any cracks or chips in your ceramic tile can also create problems with laying the new flooring on top. We recommend repairing any of these issues before installation. If your existing floor has any of these issues that cannot easily be fixed, removing the tile before installing the new vinyl plank is best.

What kind of caulk to use on vinyl flooring?

Butyl-Rubber Caulk

Best for use with aluminum, metal, concrete, mortar, plastics, rubber, stone, vinyl and exterior wood.

How long does it take to install 1000 sq ft of vinyl plank flooring?

A 1000-square-foot space will take around two to three days with a couple of people working on it. However, the timeframe can also depend on the space.

Where do you start the first row of vinyl plank flooring?

Lay the first row of vinyl plank flooring along the wall, leaving the manufacturer-recommended amount of expansion space between the plank's edge and the wall (usually about 1/4-inch). If the planks are cut, make sure the cut edge is facing the wall.

Do you need to put anything under vinyl plank flooring?

To get the most out of your LVP you will want to consider what is underneath the flooring. An underlayment provides the proper support to make sure your LVP makes it the long haul.

What happens if you don't put a moisture barrier under vinyl flooring?

When moisture penetrates your flooring, it can cause mold, mildew, and the potential for water damage. A moisture barrier helps control the water vapor's movement to help protect your floors. Therefore, if you're installing floors in an area that sees moisture, even a little, a vapor barrier is needed.

How do you prep a floor for vinyl planks?

Preparing a Concrete Subfloor for Luxury Vinyl Flooring
  1. Test the moisture content of your concrete subfloor. ...
  2. Thoroughly clean your subfloor. ...
  3. Check your subfloor to make sure it is level. ...
  4. Level your floor by filling low spots with patching compound and a putty knife. ...
  5. Use a belt sander to reduce high spots.

What is the best backing for vinyl plank flooring?

Choosing a vinyl flooring with rubber backing is ideal. Rubber features several properties that make it a quality choice for a long-lasting floor. Rubber is a strong option that can withstand heavy loads. It also offers valuable shock absorption that can help to make your floor more comfortable to walk on.

Does vinyl plank flooring need grout?

Not necessary for installation: LVT is typically designed to be installed without grout. The edges are usually tight-fitting, so grout is not required to keep them in place. Additional cost and effort: Grouting adds an extra step to the installation process and can increase the overall cost of the project.

How soon can you walk on vinyl plank flooring after installation?

Tiles or planks that are glued down, however, need time to set. This process takes at least 48 hours. Like luxury vinyl, carpet and laminate that is not glued to the subfloor can be walked on immediately. Brands that must be glued down are not ready for furniture for at least 24 hours.

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