DIY HYBRID FLOORING INSTALL. TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE

SPC Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring is fast becoming a favourite in the Hybrid Vinyl Plank range.

As mentioned in previous articles, the benefits of SPC Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring are many: 

Benefits of SPC Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring

• Waterproof – SPC Hybrid Flooring is designed to be 100% waterproof, making it an excellent choice for busy households, rentals, businesses and high traffic areas.
• Durable – Thanks to a rigid core and topcoat, hybrid planks is known for its resistance to scratches, providing a source of comfort if you have children or pets.
• Appearance – So authentic that it can be difficult to tell the difference between Hybrid Vinyl Planks and Hardwood Flooring.
• Comfort – Rigid core construction makes hybrid flooring thicker and denser than traditional vinyl providing a cushioning feel when walked on. Choosing an attached underlayment or using one beneath your flooring will add an additional layer of sound absorption and comfort.
• Sound – Hardwood and Laminate floors can create a hollow noise when walked on. Rigid core technology helps produces less sound (even more so with an underlayment, as mentioned above) with hybrid flooring. Acoustically friendly for strata requirements.
• Easy Maintenance and Cleaning – SPC Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring is easy to maintain and clean with gentle spot cleaning, sweeping, and a weekly light mop.

While the notes above are beneficial, hybrid flooring is also user-friendly. If the installation is straightforward and small the ‘do it yourselfer’ can install hybrid flooring with ease, saving the cost of a professional installer. If the project is large and contains difficult areas, or stairs, the installation may require a professional installer for peace of mind.

DIY Hybrid Flooring Installation – Basic Preparation

Most Hybrid Vinyl Plank Systems have a tongue in groove, or click lock system, which makes the installation an easy process. All of our product at Viaduct Imports feature a click lock system, creating a floating floor, or a surface which ‘floats’ on top of the subfloor, opposed to gluing down.

1. Budget

Account for removal and disposal of flooring, trims/skirtings or scotia, any subfloor repairs, additional tools and materials, such as scotia or skirting, fillers, nails. Also, plan on where you will move furniture during the installation.

   2. Prep Subfloors

Ensure your subfloor is dry, free of imperfections, and level. An uneven subfloor will lead to premature damage and an unstable feel in your hybrid flooring. Remove any residue from underlay, or glue, beforehand.

3. Have Tools at Hand

• Chalk line
• Pull bar or pry bar
• Tape measure
• Tapping block (a piece of trimmed flooring)
• Pencil
• Crosscut power saw
• 3M Scotch-Blue 2080 Tape

If you are unsure which tools you need, we recommend visiting your local Hardware Store for guidance.

 3. Measure Your Space and Consider the Finished Look

Before the actual installation, it is important to measure the room and have an idea of the finished look.

For best visual appeal, planks in the final row should be at least 1/3 of the width of the plank. Because of this, planks in the first row may need to be cut to a smaller size.

Play around with different layouts by moving the boards around until you find a pleasant mix of shades and a look which suits you.

4. Read the Instructions Carefully

Carefully read through the instructions for the specific flooring you are installing in advance. Most flooring instructions will be on the carton. The instructions cover each step and how to prepare. Most Hybrid Vinyl Planks do not need acclimatising, however the instructions will advise for your particular flooring product.

After installing your hybrid flooring, it is important to keep the below points in mind:

• Dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to rid it of any dirt or debris. (note: there will be fine layers of dust which may require a few sweeps before mopping)
• Use hardboard runways or a hand trolley to move any furniture onto the floor. Avoid dragging along the floor.
• Avoid rubber mats, which might stick to the floor and cause discolouration.
• Protect your floor by placing felt pads or floor protectors under furniture.
• Use mats at entrances to help prevent dust and dirt being spread onto the floors.
• Do not steam mop. Avoid the harsh end of a vacuum cleaner.
• Clean up spills as soon as possible.
• Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals – we recommend 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts warm water and a dash of dishwashing liquid.