Step 1: Surface preparation
Trafficmaster Allure can be installed over wood or concrete subfloors even over existing vinyl or tile flooring. If you are installing vinyl flooring over an existing tile floor check that the grout lines are not larger than the quarter inch.
If they are, the floor will need to be leveled using a patching compound. Allure planks and tiles are pliable and over time larger grout lines will become visible. If you installing it over concrete subfloor check for moisture.
A 6mil poly underlayment should be used when moisture levels are above 5%. Regardless of the subfloor material it must be sound, solid and have a little flexibility.
Step 2: Plan the Installation
Begin by measuring the rooms length and divide it by the length of the planks. Be sure to allow for a quarter inch gap on either end. If the resulting level is less than 12 inches you will need to cut first plank accordingly to avoid to having planks less than 12 inches on the opposite site of the room.
Measure the width of the room and divide it with the width of the plank. If the number is less than half of the width of the plank you will need to trim the first and last row on the equal widths. This will result in a more balanced looking room at the end of the installation.
Step 3: Install The First Row
Start in the corner of the room and lay the first plank down with the underedge facing away of the wall, insert quarter inch spacer between the wall and the planks as you install them.
This will allow for subfloor contraction and expansion. Place the second plank at the 45 degree angle with the overedge on top of the underedge. Adjust the plank so there is a good tight seam and press down on the seam. Then use a hand roller to strengthen the bond of the gripstrips. If the seam doesn’t appear to be tight you can immediately separate two planks and start over. Slowly pull the upper plank off the lower plank being careful not to damage or tear the gripstrip. Readjust and roll the seam again.
You can rework seams up to 15 minutes before the adhesive become permanent. Continue laying planks and rolling the seams as you go until the row is complete.
When cutting end planks be sure to cut them so the cut edges faces the wall. These cut edges and the quarter inch gaps will be covered by the molding at the end of the installation.
These cut edges and the quarter inch gaps will be covered by the molding at the end of the installation.
Step 4: Install The Planks
When laying the second row of the planks score and snap the first plank so the seam will be staggered at least 6 inches from the seams in the first row. The staggered seam pattern can be repeated row by row or be random. As each row is completed, place spacers at both end to maintain the consistent gap to the wall.
When installing planks around door openings, it is best to cut the door casing so the plank can slide underneath. Place the plank next to the casing and mark the planks thickness, cut the door case with either the hand saw or jam cutter.
Use the large floor roller back and forth across the room in both directions to seal the seams. Install the molding and the room is complete.
This easy to install vinyl flooring is not only a beautiful addition to your home, but it is extremely durable and virtually maintenance free.
All images are from Home Depot video tutorial.
After this post I think I can do it myself 🙂