Spacers are used during vinyl plank installation to create a necessary expansion gap between the flooring and the walls. This gap accommodates natural expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes, preventing the floor from buckling, lifting, or cracking over time.
Yes, you need spacers for vinyl plank flooring. While vinyl is highly durable, it is still a "floating floor" that expands and contracts with temperature changes. Spacers maintain the required gap (typically 14one-fourth14 inch) around the perimeter, preventing the planks from buckling, warping, or separating.
Without expansion gaps, laminate planks push against each other and the walls when they expand. Since the floor can't move freely, it begins to buckle—lifting upward in the middle or near edges. This not only ruins the appearance but can also damage the locking system of the planks, making the floor unstable.
Yes, you absolutely need to leave a gap (an expansion gap) with vinyl plank flooring. While vinyl is highly water-resistant, it is still sensitive to temperature changes and will expand and contract.
Preparation Mistakes That Lead to LVP Installation Failure
Any uneven spots, old adhesive, or leftover debris from an existing floor can transfer through luxury vinyl or stress the locking system. The result is a floor that moves, clicks, or separates. Moisture conditions matter as well.
Common Mistakes When Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring
Some common mistakes I see when performing a plank: Butt rising up in the air or hips sinking towards the ground. Proper plank form should look like this: *Align your elbows (or hands if doing a high plank) directly under your shoulders *Engage your core, pulling your bellybutton in towards your spine.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring typically lasts 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the planks, the thickness of the wear layer, and foot traffic.
Things to Avoid With Vinyl Plank Flooring
The best months to buy flooring are late December through February and mid-May to early June. During winter, flooring stores clear out old inventory with deep discounts—often 15–30% off.
What are the most popular vinyl plank flooring colors in 2026? Light oak, greige, and soft brown tones continue to be favorites. These colors feel fresh and versatile, working well with neutral palettes, natural light, and the relaxed, airy look many homeowners are going for right now.
For most vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, the subfloor flatness must not vary more than 3163 over 16 end-fraction𝟑𝟏𝟔 of an inch over a 10-foot span, or 18one-eighth𝟏𝟖 of an inch over a 6-foot span. Failing to meet this tolerance can cause the locking joints to snap, separate, or telegraph (bend and show the dips) over time.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on laminate floors, but use it sparingly. Because dish soap is highly concentrated, just 1 teaspoon mixed with a gallon of warm water is enough to cut through grease. Using too much will leave behind a dull, sticky film.
Whether you are dealing with wheel spacers on a vehicle or desk/laptop spacers for ergonomics, the word "spacers" generally introduces trade-offs regarding safety, wear, and setup complexity.
Some Common Mistakes When Laying Laminate Flooring
Yes. Both dry and wet Swiffer mops are safe to use on vinyl plank, as long as you're using cleaning pads that don't leave behind residue. Just avoid soaking the floor.
Yes, you can absolutely use Dawn dish soap on Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring. Because it is a pH-neutral cleaner, it safely cuts through grease and dirt without damaging the protective wear layer. However, you only need a tiny amount, and you must rinse the floor afterward.
The best vinyl plank flooring depends on your needs, but top-rated brands dominating the market for durability and style include COREtec for comfort, Lifeproof for the best overall DIY value, and Shaw Floors for commercial-grade performance.
Standing water can still seep through and damage the subfloor if no waterproofing layer is installed. However, they can be prone to dents and scratching. Also, they may fade when installed in areas constantly exposed to the sun. Vinyl planks also can't withstand extreme temperature changes very well.
Yes, you can place a refrigerator on top of vinyl plank flooring. Because the floor is highly durable and waterproof, it easily handles the weight and potential spills of a fridge. However, as with any heavy object on a floating floor, taking a few precautions prevents damaging the planks.
Healthiest Flooring Types Compared
Doing a 2-minute plank daily builds significant core endurance, improves posture, and reduces lower back pain. While it won’t magically burn belly fat or carve out a six-pack on its own, this isometric hold engages your entire body, resulting in a stronger, more stable midsection.
While "plank" can refer to fitness exercises, it is most commonly associated with plank flooring (LVP) or Planck's constant (physics). Select the topic that matches your needs below.
The best plank position is the forearm plank. It minimizes wrist pressure, keeps your body perfectly parallel to the floor, and maximizes core engagement.