When properly used, expansion gaps can relieve the pressure from heat expansion that can affect a floating floor and prevent any noticeable buckling or peaked appearance. If the floor is less than 50 ft in length or width, leave at least a ¼-inch expansion gap around the entire perimeter.
If the proper expansion gap is not left during installation, and the planks on the sides push up against the wall, the pressure will cause planks elsewhere in the room to buckle. Buckling floors are repairable, however, they are a major inconvenience and can be tricky.
The pass level for ASTM F 2199 is such that shrinkage of up to 0.024” / linear foot is considered a “pass”. This equates to a maximum allowable gap of 0.072” for a typical three foot plank, which is more than double the thickness of a credit card.
Step 1: Score the First Row of Planks
Score and cut the tongue off the first row of vinyl planks using a utility knife. Set the first plank in place on the starting line with the cut side toward the wall, maintaining the expansion gap.
In short, vinyl flooring itself can be completely self sustainable and does not require an underlayment to function properly. Another reason underlayments may be suggested for vinyl flooring is if the vinyl flooring type is thin. When the vinyl flooring is thin, it becomes a lot easier to flex and bend.
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.
Which side is the tongue, which the groove, and which goes first during installation? The tongue is the side that you will want to place against the wall as you start your laminate-flooring installation.
No. Rigid vinyl planks like Sound-Tec, Studio 12, and Foundations float over minor subfloor imperfections. They mask slight subfloor unevenness. However, because of the precisely milled clip system, a flat substrate is recommended for support.
The Lowdown on LVP Thickness
Thicker planks are more resistant to dents and scratches. The most common thickness of LVP used in common households is 12 mil, but if your household is fairly active, or has a number of pets, a higher thickness is recommended – such as 20 mil.
The answer to this question is Yes. Although not often, vinyl plank flooring is known to expand or contract based on changes in its environment. Thankfully, there are ways of limiting and, in some cases, even preventing this expansion and contraction altogether.
A floating floor that is not staggered will not only look odd it will not perform well and as it expands it can even lift up like a hinge. Staggering adds strength and structural stability.
Second, staggering increases the floor's stability by distributing the seams and joints more evenly. This is particularly important for floating vinyl plank flooring, where the planks do not adhere to the subfloor. In this case, staggering helps to prevent the flooring from separating or gapping over time.
Vinyl flooring installation typically takes between 1-2 days to complete. Some types of vinyl flooring, such as plank and tile, need a few days to acclimate to the temperature and humidity in your home prior to the installation. This process prevents expanding and contracting after the flooring is installed.
During installation, place the vinyl planks randomly on the floor. Done right, random placement helps to avoid undesirable H-joints and step patterns.
Flooring is typically installed in the same direction as your leading source of natural light, and the same goes for luxury vinyl. If you have large windows in a living room or an entryway that allows a flood of natural light, then run your planks in the same direction.
Most plank installations will require working backwards somewhere. Working backwards can be difficult and it can be easy, it really depends on the product you are using. Either way, I always try to start in an area that will help me avoid having to do so.
For row two, score and snap the first plank in half. Its end should be at least 6 to 8 inches apart from the closest seam in row one. This will stagger the seams between the adjacent rows in a random way. That's what you're after.