Installing Vinyl Flooring With Seams

How to Install

Download Vinyl Flooring Installation Instructions | PDF's
Quick Guide on How–to–Install a Vinyl Floor – 300kb pdf | Our short installation guide for those with DIY experience.
Full Guide – Complete Installation Instructions on Installing your Vinyl Floor – 1.0 mb pdf | Our full set of DIY installation instructions.

NOTE: Use this method when you are working in a large area with multiple obstacles and seams

1. Create a pattern of your floor using a pattern kit (available at most home improvement stores) or craft paper, scissors and tape. Make sure the pattern is flat on the floor at all times and account for all obstacles.
2. Unroll your pattern on top of your vinyl. Ensure there is a piece of vinyl beneath the entire pattern. Try to position seams in low traffic areas. If your vinyl has visible lines such as grout lines in tile patterns, plan your seams accordingly. Seams are much less visible if hidden within a grout line.
3. At each seam, overlap the two pieces of vinyl by at least 1". Make sure the patterns match so the seam blends together. Tape the two pieces of vinyl together with masking tape.
4. Following a metal straight edge, use a utility knife to cut through BOTH pieces of vinyl at each seam. Once cut, align the seam edges so flush and tape securely.
5. Cut the rest of your vinyl to fit your pattern. Leave 3" around the perimeter.
6. Once cut, carefully roll up the vinyl and take it to the installation area. (Consider sweeping/vacuuming the install area just prior to laying down your vinyl.)
7. Unroll carefully and align correctly with the room. Trim all edges so they are flush with walls or obstacles. Leave expansion spacing per your manufacturer's recommendations.
8. Starting with the largest piece of vinyl first, roll back and tape the half opposite the seam.
9. Apply the adhesive to the subfloor or perimeter as directed by the manufacturer.
10. Unroll and lay the vinyl into the adhesive. Apply pressure from the center to the edges.
11. Roll back and tape the other half of the vinyl (near the seam). Use a pencil to trace the seam onto the subfloor. Roll back and tape the second (smaller) piece of vinyl.
12. Apply the adhesive on the whole floor under both sheets of vinyl and along the seam (for full spread) or on either side of the seam as directed by the manufacturer (for perimeter adhesive).
13. Carefully unroll both pieces of vinyl and set in the adhesive. Make sure the vinyl is tight but not overlapping at the seam. Wipe away any excess adhesive from the seam.
14. Roll the vinyl and the seam with a 100–lb roller or as recommended by the manufacturer.
15. Repeat steps 8 through 14 for all other seams on the floor.
16. Re–roll the whole floor as recommended by the manufacturer.
17. Use a seam sealer kit to seal all seams. Follow all the directions provided with the kit.
18. Let the new vinyl cure and bond for 24–72 hours or as directed by your manufacturer. Do not move anything back into the room and keep foot traffic to a minimum during this time.

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