Should LVP go the same direction in all rooms?

Author: Annette Wuckert  |  Last update: Sunday, May 25, 2025

If the flooring in the adjoining room is carpet, it doesn't matter which direction you lay the vinyl flooring in, so other factors can help you decide. If the flooring in the room is another type of hard flooring and you want distinct transitions between the rooms, have the vinyl flooring put in the opposite direction.

Can you lay flooring in different directions in different rooms?

As a general rule, make sure to lay your floor in the same direction as the main light source in a room and in the same line as the most frequently used entrance.

What direction should you lay LVP?

Vinyl plank floors should run longways along the length of your room. This creates the illusion of more space. And if your room has corners and angled walls, you may want to lay your planks diagonally, creating a unique and eye-catching effect.

Should your hall vinyl flooring go different direction from larger room?

Following the direction of the longer-length walls in the room help to make it feel more open. If the adjoining rooms have open doorways or halls, you may want the vinyl to line up perfectly with the next room's floor as well. This can help the rooms to flow better and feel connected.

Should all flooring in a house go the same direction?

Absolutely not necessarily. Structurally if it's attached to the subfloor going across the floor joists is the norm. But still your preference still should matter. That being said, there are many homes whose brand new floor system has changed in direction and still everything goes one direction.

Which Direction To Lay Vinyl Plank Flooring In Multiple Rooms? | Step By Step Guide 2022

Does LVP need transitions between rooms?

While luxury vinyl plank flooring is ideal for several rooms in your home, it will eventually meet other flooring types. It is here that you'll need the right transition piece(s) to create an effortless flow between these surfaces. Kitchens and bathrooms call for flooring that can handle water and moisture.

What is the best layout for LVP flooring?

Common Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Laying Directions

Planks are installed parallel to each other along the length or width of the room. Simplest and most common method; works well for most rooms. Planks are placed at a 45-degree angle to the walls.

What is the correct way to stagger LVP?

Use the 2-Inch Rule: As a general guideline, ensure that the end joints between planks in adjacent rows are staggered by at least 2 inches. This means the starter plank in each new row should be at least 2 inches longer or shorter than the starter plank in the row before it.

Should LVP be left to right or right to left?

Go from left to right: Install vinyl planks from left to right. This is due to where the grooves are located as well as ease of installation. You'll want to keep the groove facing you as well, and use spacers between the plank and the wall.

Should flooring be the same in all rooms?

Choosing the same flooring for all the rooms creates a unified and harmonious environment, and creates a visual effect that expands its dimensions, which allows us to better plan a reform. However, in open-plan dwellings such as studios or lofts, the flooring can help to delimit areas in an organic way.

Should flooring from kitchen to living room be the same?

Matching flooring is often recommended because it creates a seamless finish and better flow throughout your home. However, when it comes to interior design rules for flooring, there are no hard and fast rules — if you like mixing flooring or think your interior design could benefit from it, go for it.

How do you transition flooring between rooms?

In most cases, it's wise to use a transition strip between similar flooring. Floors with similar thicknesses benefit from a transition type known as a T-molding. This transition strip doesn't adjust for height, but it provides a smooth shift from one flooring to the next.

Can you work both directions with vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring can be installed backward. This means you will be laying the planks in the opposite direction. This can make it easy for them to curve underneath and lock into place with a simple tap.

Does floor have to be perfectly level for vinyl plank flooring?

A flat and level floor is key so that the adjoining vinyl plank flooring doesn't have varying heights. It is absolutely essential that the subfloor is completely level.

Which side of LVP goes against the wall?

When installing vinyl plank flooring, the side with the tongue should go against the wall.

Which direction should I run my LVP flooring?

Flooring usually follows the direction of the main light source or natural light. When sunlight streams in through windows or a glass door, it will create a pleasing visual effect on planks that follows the same direction.

What happens if you don't stagger LVP?

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.

What is the best pattern for vinyl plank flooring?

The most popular pattern chosen when installing vinyl flooring is the subway tile offset pattern, in which the tiles of each row are offset by half the width of the plank or tile.

What patterns should be avoided in LVP?

The "H" Pattern

Not only is this visually unappealing, but it also undermines the seamless look that LVP is renowned for. To prevent the formation of this undesirable pattern in your LVP installation, it's crucial to carefully plan the layout and spacing of the planks.

How should LVP be staggered?

Cut a full-length plank in half to start the second row. Stagger the seams at least 6-8 inches from the first row's end joints to avoid creating H-joints or step patterns, which can weaken the floor's structure.

Do you cut the tongue off the first row of vinyl plank flooring?

Grab your first plank board and gently trim off its tongue using your utility knife. Then, set the plank down, making sure the side without a tongue is facing the room's wall. As a rule, when laying the first row of planks, ensure you leave a tiny space (about a quarter of an inch) between the planks and the wall.

Can you change the direction of vinyl plank flooring between rooms?

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 people put LVP in high end homes?

High-end homes may still opt for the timeless appeal of real hardwood in main living areas, while using LVP or LVT in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.

Is T-molding necessary between rooms for vinyl plank flooring?

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.

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