How To Install Your New Rigid Core SPC Vinyl Floor
In this article we will cover:
- Calculating how much flooring you will need
- Determining if you need a moisture barrier
- Getting the right tools for the job
- Installing your flooring safely
- Our vinyl flooring installation video
Let's get started!
1. Calculate how much flooring you will need
2. Get the right underlayment for your project
3. Safety first!
Before you start installing your new floor, you'll need to have the right tools on hand.
• Knee pads: You will be spending quite some time on your knees during installation, so knee pads are a must (you can thank us later).
• Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from sawdust and debris that may fly your way during the installation process.
Amston Safety Goggles, OSHA and ANSI Z87.1 Compliant Protective Eyewear - - Amazon.com
• Dust Mask: You don't want dust in your eyes - it's no fun to breathe it in, either.
Amazon.com: Honeywell Nuisance Disposable Dust Mask, Box of 50 (RWS-54001) : Industrial & Scientific
4. Measure twice, cut once
The difference between an OK installation and a great one is all in the details. If you want your floor to be perfect the first time, you must measure it correctly. Measuring your room correctly will not only save you time and money (less waste), but will give your floor that professional look you are aiming for.
• Tape Measure: You should always have this item in your back pocket - literally.
CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 25-Foot (CMHT37225S) - - Amazon.com
• Carpenter's Square: To ensure those 90-degree angles are perfectly aligned.
Swanson Tool Co S0101 7 Inch Speed Square, Blue - Carpentry Squares - Amazon.com
• Level: When installing your floor, it is always good practice to use your level to confirm all the planks are in the same perfect plane.
• Moisture Meter: To avoid mold and rot in your subfloor, you'll want to check if its moisture levels are below 12%. If moisture is above 12%, you can use a dehumidifier and as many fans as are available to help dry it out faster.
Amazon.com : moisture meter for floor
5. Tools to have ready
You have your flooring, your safety gear... and now what? Assemble the tools below and you're ready to get to work:
• Rubber mallet: To help you press those planks together after they click.
SHIHAOHZ Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet (Yellow handle-08oz) - - Amazon.com
• Saw: Some planks will need to be cut. We recommend a miter or table saw.
Amazon.com: DEWALT Miter Saw, Single Bevel, Compound, 10-Inch, 15-Amp (DWS713) : Everything Else
Amazon.com: DEWALT Table Saw for Jobsite, Compact, 8-1/4-Inch (DWE7485) : Everything Else
• Utility knife: For precision trims.
• Pencil: Make sure you mark every plank before you cut.
• 5/16'' Spacers: You'll want to leave room for the natural shrinking and expansion of your floor planks.
• Tapping block: Helps you protect the edges of your planks from your mallet.
6. Watch our installation guide
There are tons of resources on the Internet right now for pretty much everything. Luckily, you won't have to go anywhere for Rigid Core SPC vinyl installation, as we've put together a tutorial just for you: