How to Properly Prep Your Subfloor for LVT Flooring: A Detailed Pre-Installation Checklist for a Seamless and Long-Lasting Result

 LVT Flooring is a popular flooring choice for its durability, performance and design flexibility. It offers a wide range of visual options that closely mimic wood, stone and tile as well as abstract designs and colors. New technology and manufacturing methods are continuing to expand the visual offerings.



 Design elements

However, it’s important to consider the role the floor will play in a space – is it meant to be a focal point or a backdrop? What mood are you trying to convey in the space, such as energetic and lively or calm and soothing? Defining the role will help narrow down your LVT selections and ensure that you’re selecting the right product for the job.

 Flooring professional

As a starting point, your flooring professional will help you identify the design elements that you’re drawn to and align those with available products. They’ll also help you understand the constructions that are available, how they work and where they are best used in a specific space.

 Damaged planks and tiles

The primary construction types for LVT are rigid core and click and glue down. Rigid core is typically found in residential and multi-family applications, while glue down is a more common choice for commercial and heavy commercial environments. Rigid core products are designed with a click installation system that allows for easy replacement of damaged planks and tiles.

PSI rolling and static load testing

A rigid core product can be installed over many existing hard surface flooring materials including concrete, terrazzo and VCT. It’s also often glued to underlayment, adding additional support and insulation. Click and glue down products require the use of a full spread adhesive that can withstand high PSI rolling and static load testing.

Both rigid core and click and glue down LVT are constructed with a stabilizing PVC base layer that helps ensure dimensional stability. The base layer is then laminated to a top layer of printed vinyl that has been pressed under high heat and pressure. The final product is durable, low-maintenance and features a scratch, stain and wear resistant clear layer that is enhanced by a liquid urethane finish during the manufacturing process.

Most LVT is offered in squares and rectangles, as well as planks. Within each collection, varying sizes can be used to create unique and fresh looks. Changing up the size can help minimize seams and enhance visual contrast. Using different color options can also add depth and texture to a visual.

Conclusion

Like most flooring products, your choice of installation method is critical to the longevity and performance of your LVT Flooring. A poor subfloor prep can lead to gapping, telegraphing and moisture issues over time. Choosing the right installation system for the environment is essential to achieving long-term success, as is developing a daily cleaning routine and training your staff on proper maintenance techniques.

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