Are you thinking about upgrading your floors? Vinyl roll flooring is an affordable, stylish, and easy-to-work-with option. It’s perfect for giving any room in your home a fresh, modern look.
The great thing about vinyl roll flooring is that you don’t need special skills to install it! With just a few essential tools and patience, you can transform your space and enjoy a stunning new floor in no time. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about installing vinyl roll flooring. So, let’s dive in!
Materials you need while installing vinyl roll flooring
You’ll need several essential materials to make the job easier when installing vinyl roll flooring. First, you’ll need the vinyl roll cut to the correct size. A utility knife is used to cut the vinyl. You’ll also need a tape measure, chalk line, and square to ensure everything is measured and lined up correctly. To prepare the floor, use a broom or vacuum to clean up dust, dirt,, and scrapers if the floor has rough spots. Adhesive helps to stick the vinyl in place, especially if it’s a glue-down type. A roller or floor roller will press the vinyl down and remove air bubbles. Finally, transition strips and baseboards are needed to finish the edges and give a clean look.
How To Install Vinyl Roll Flooring
Here are the steps to install vinyl roll flooring. If you’re doing it yourself, prepare well for the best results.
Prepare the Subfloor
Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and smooth. Remove any old flooring or debris. If necessary, repair any uneven areas with a floor levelling compound. Ensure the subfloor is free of dust, oils, or other contaminants that might affect the adhesive.
Measure and Cut the Vinyl Roll
Measure the room’s length and the width of the vinyl roll. Unroll the vinyl in the area where you plan to install it. Use a utility knife and a straightedge to trim the vinyl to fit the room, leaving a little extra on the edges to cut later.
Check the Fit
Lay the vinyl down and check how it fits in the room. Ensure it extends slightly over the edges and aligns with the walls. If needed, trim the vinyl to fit better along the walls.
Apply Adhesive
If your vinyl requires adhesive, use a roller or a floor adhesive spreader to spread a thin, even layer over the subfloor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time and application techniques. Let the adhesive set for the recommended time before laying down the vinyl, usually around 15-20 minutes.
Lay the Vinyl
Carefully roll the vinyl out onto the adhesive, starting from one end of the room. Use a chalk line to ensure straight alignment. Smooth the vinyl as you go, pressing down to avoid air bubbles. You can use a roller to ensure the vinyl sticks to the subfloor evenly.
Trim the Edges
Once the vinyl is in place, trim the excess vinyl along the edges of the walls using a utility knife. Be careful to leave a small gap between the edge of the vinyl and the wall to allow for expansion.
Smooth the Surface
Use a floor roller (if available) to smooth out air pockets and ensure full adhesion to the subfloor. Press down on areas that may not have adhered well, ensuring the vinyl is fully bonded.
Let It Set
Allow the vinyl flooring to set for at least 24 hours to ensure it sticks properly to the adhesive and stays in place.
Finishing Touches
Reinstall any baseboards or moldings you removed. Clean the floor to remove any dust or debris, and your vinyl roll flooring should now be ready to use!
Cost of installing vinyl roll flooring
The cost of installing vinyl roll flooring can vary based on several factors, such as the type of vinyl, the quality of materials, the complexity of installation, and your location. On average, you can expect:
Material Costs:
Depending on the quality and brand, vinyl roll flooring typically costs between $0.50 and $2.00 per square foot. Higher-end options or specialty vinyl can cost $3.00 or more per square foot.
Installation Costs:
Professional installation generally adds $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot to the total cost, though this can vary based on the complexity of the job and the installer’s rates.
Therefore, the cost of basic vinyl roll flooring, including materials and installation, is typically $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot. For higher-end vinyl, the price can range from $5.00 to $7.50 per square foot.
Maintenance of vinyl roll flooring
Maintaining vinyl roll flooring is simple and can help it look great for years. Here are some tips to keep your vinyl flooring in excellent shape.
Regular Cleaning
Maintaining vinyl roll flooring is straightforward and helps preserve its appearance and longevity. Regular cleaning is key to keeping the surface looking fresh. Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris, which can cause scratches over time. Use a damp mop with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for vinyl floors. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
Avoid Excessive Water
While vinyl flooring is water-resistant, it’s essential to avoid excessive moisture. Standing water can seep into seams and edges, potentially damaging them. If water spills, dry it up as quickly as possible to prevent any issues.
Protect from Scratches
Use felt pads under furniture legs to protect the floor from scratches and avoid dragging heavy items across the surface. Lifting furniture when moving it ensures that no scratches occur. Additionally, placing rugs or mats at entrances can trap dirt and moisture, reducing wear and tear.
Prevent Discoloration
To prevent discolouration, try to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade the colour of the vinyl. Cleaning up spills immediately is also crucial, especially when dealing with substances like food or drinks, which can cause staining if left too long.
Occasional Deep Cleaning
A deeper clean may be necessary to remove built-up grime occasionally. A specialized vinyl floor cleaner will help maintain its appearance, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any cleaning product.
Check for Damage
Finally, it is important to regularly inspect the flooring for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or lifting seams. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and help extend the life of the flooring.
Conclusion
Vinyl roll flooring is an affordable and easy way to update your home. It’s simple to install, even for beginners, and requires just a few essential tools. With proper care, including regular cleaning and protection from scratches, your floor will stay in excellent condition for years. Whether you install it yourself or hire a professional, vinyl flooring offers a cost-effective solution to give your home a fresh, modern look.
FAQs:
Q1: How do I prepare the floor before installing vinyl roll flooring?
A: Clean the floor thoroughly, ensuring it’s dry and smooth. Remove dust, dirt, or debris, and patch holes or cracks. For best results, you may need to sand down rough spots.
Q2: Can I install vinyl roll flooring over existing floors?
A: Yes, you can install vinyl roll flooring over most existing floors, such as tile, concrete, or hardwood. However, before installation, ensure the surface is clean, smooth, and level.
Q3: How do I cut vinyl roll flooring to fit the room?
A: Use a sharp utility knife to score the vinyl roll along the edges, then snap it over the cut. Measure carefully to ensure a precise fit, especially around corners or obstacles like cabinets.
Q4: Do I need to glue or nail vinyl roll flooring?
A: Some vinyl rolls are self-adhesive, while others require glue or staples for installation. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best method and ensure proper bonding for long-lasting results
