LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile, this is a kind of flooring that is preferred in many modern buildings because of its durability, esthetic appearance, and easy to clean. If you are planning to lay LVT on your own, below is a comprehensive process on how to do it professionally and successfully.
1. Prepare the Subfloor
The first step is to make sure that subfloor is clean, dry and flat surface to footings so that creaking is addresses and reduce floor to ceiling gaps as well. Old floors and any thinning nails and adhesive residue need to be stripped from the garage floors. It is recommended to use appropriate matching putty to pack up any gaps or crevices and sand the intervention area to give it a level end. To get the most appropriate outcome, it is desirable to produce a subfloor plane that slopes not more than 1/8 inch across a 6-foot length.
2. Acclimate the Vinyl Tiles
Layout your LVTs Before installing it, let the products adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity. One recommends unpacking of the LVT packages and placing the unopened boxes in the area of application for a period of 48 hours. It helps the tiles to acclimatise to the conditions within the room and this rectifies problems of expansion or contraction after the tiles have been laid.
3. Plan Your Layout
It’s a good idea to sketch the tile arrangement before you begin. Measure the room and find the center to avoid small tiles in the middle of the floor. This helps create a balanced look. Dry lay a few rows first to see how it will look and adjust as needed before fixing the tiles.
4. Cuts and installs the tiles
To achieve tight joints, use a straightedge and utility knife to trim tiles as needed around edges and corners. Start installing tiles from the room’s center and work outward. Apply glue to the back of the tiles if required, or use the click-lock system if your tiles have it. For wall tiles, press them firmly to ensure a secure fit.
5. Apply the Finishing Touches
After laying the tiles, roll the floor with a 100-pound roller to ensure all tiles are firmly adhered and there are no air pockets. Install baseboards or trim around the edges to cover any gaps and give your floor a finished look.
6. Allow the Floor to Settle
Allow the floor to settle and the adhesive to cure fully before walking on it or placing furniture. This typically takes 24 to 48 hours. Avoid heavy traffic or placing rugs on the floor during this period.
By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-quality installation of luxury vinyl tile, enhancing the look and functionality of your space. If you encounter any issues or prefer a hands-off approach, consulting with a flooring and refinishing guru can ensure a flawless result.