How to avoid transition strips?

Author: Gertrude Jerde  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

As an alternative to transition strips, you can use a seam binder when the floors are roughly the same height. You could also use an alternative material, like marble.

What can I use instead of transition strips?

An alternative approach to transitions between flooring materials involves using wide strips of mosaics or pebbles as detailed transition borders.

Do you have to use transition strips?

You may have been told that you need to have a transition strip at your doorways, but in many cases they're not necessary! Glued or stapled floors never require a break, and floating Stuga floors only need one if the span of your room is wider than 80' x 160'.

Can you install vinyl plank flooring without transitions?

Yes, your manufacturer will void your warranty if you do not use transitions at breaking points like doorways and long runs that they state “are too long”.

What can I use to hold down transition strips?

If you need to install a transition strip, construction adhesive is the way to go when the floor still needs to move and the material is made of metal. This is a simple DIY way to attach a transition strip to the floor for any material type.

Avoid Flooring Mistakes: Where to Transition Flooring in Doorways

What is the best adhesive for transition strips?

So, what is the best way to install transition strips? You have several options, but we recommend using a transition strip adhesive tape, like the Opti-Grip dry adhesive. Opti-Grip is a fast-acting double-sided tape that doesn't require a lengthy curing time like a wet adhesive does.

What can I use instead of a tapping block?

Commercially made tapping blocks are sold as tools, but you can also use a piece of scrap off-cut from one of the ends of a piece of laminate.

Does vinyl flooring need transitions between rooms?

Between two rooms utilizing the same flooring material. While you may be able to get away without a transition strip in these spaces, using one can better allow for expansion and contraction over time. This is particularly important with wood plank, vinyl plank or tile materials.

What happens if you don't stagger vinyl plank flooring?

Since vinyl plank flooring comes in even sizes, you might be tempted to install them in a straight pattern. However, straight floor panels are more likely to warp, shift and slide out of place. Staggered floors create an unevenly spaced pattern with 6 inches of space between the end joints on adjacent rows.

Do you need transition strips between rooms with laminate flooring?

Transition strips play a vital role in bridging laminate flooring between different rooms. These strips come in various materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic, and are designed to provide a smooth transition.

Can you change direction with vinyl plank flooring?

Can I change the direction of the vinyl plank flooring between rooms? Yes, changing the direction of vinyl plank flooring between rooms can define different areas and add visual interest. Use transition strips to ensure a smooth transition.

Do I need a transition strip between carpet and tile?

In most cases, using a transition strip between carpet and tile is not just a good idea; it's almost a necessity. Here are a few compelling reasons why you should consider one: Protection: Carpets and tiles have different vulnerabilities. Tiles can chip or crack at their edges, while carpets can fray.

Are transition strips necessary?

Transition strips are a vital tool for your multi-room flooring installation, and you'll need to utilize them often. There are various situations where they're needed, such as: Where your flooring meets a different flooring type. In between rooms where an expansion gap is needed.

How to fix height difference between flooring?

Flooring specialists use a ramp to transition when there is a significant height difference, such as a concrete slab with tile or hardwood floors. You could also find smaller ramps for installing tile, which go around the tile's edge and taper the material next to it. Ramps generally come in PVC or metal materials.

What is an acceptable floor transition height?

Any difference in height between two floors can be something of an issue, but you usually shouldn't find any difference more significant, maybe ¾” in most instances. Those who have somethimore significantter than this might be looking at more severe problems that they'd want to shore up.

What can you use instead of transition strips?

As an alternative to transition strips, you can use a seam binder when the floors are roughly the same height. You could also use an alternative material, like marble.

Do you need a transition strip between carpet and LVP?

Instead of using a transition piece where the two floors meet, pull the carpet tight and wrap the edge underneath. This will hide the unattractive cut edge of the carpeting. You can use staples or whatever method your professional installer recommends to hold the carpet down.

What happens if you don t leave an expansion gap for vinyl flooring?

The Consequences of Omitting an Expansion Gap

This often manifests as bulging or lifting, particularly at the centre of the room. This phenomenon, known as a “pinch point,” occurs when expanding flooring comes into contact with a wall or door frame, creating upward pressure on the boards.

Can you use a 2x4 as a tapping block?

A tapping block comes in handy when installing through the room (you can buy an actual tapping block or just use a spare 2x4).

Can I use a rubber mallet to install vinyl plank flooring?

Other tools you'll need include measuring tape, a chalk or crayon, a straightedge and a vacuum. Some manufacturers recommend a tapping block and rubber mallet.

How to lay LVT flooring on concrete?

How to install LVT flooring on concrete: A step-by-step guide
  1. PRY OUT THE SKIRTING BOARDS. ...
  2. CHECK THE FLOOR FOR CRACKS. ...
  3. ENSURE THE SUBFLOOR IS LEVEL. ...
  4. EVEN OUT THE SUBFLOOR. ...
  5. CALCULATE THE NUMBER OF VINYL TILES YOU NEED TO FIT THE ROOM. ...
  6. LAY THE FIRST ROW OF TILES. ...
  7. INSTALL SUBSEQUENT ROWS OF TILES. ...
  8. INSTALLING THE LAST ROW OF TILES.

Do you nail down transition strips?

Place the Transition Strip

Place the transition strip in the rail and make sure it is positioned properly and securely. It should just snap into place.

Can I use gorilla glue on vinyl flooring?

Will Gorilla Glue work on vinyl flooring? According to its makers, Gorilla Glue isn’t ideal for use on vinyl floors. In fact, Gorilla Glue is water activated and its polyurethane formula works best on gluing ceramic, metal, foam, glass, stone and wood. That’s why it won’t work well on vinyl flooring.

Do you glue down transition strips?

Apply adhesion to your T-strip

Apply one, long, steady bead of Loctite® PL PREMIUM MAX to both the T-strip and the floor. Loctite® PL PREMIUM MAX works on wood, laminate, drywall, concrete, brick, masonry, stone, marble, metal, stainless steel, fiberglass and more.

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