Can you install a vinyl floor by yourself?

Today’s vinyl options offer a versatile flooring solution available in multiple colours and styles, suiting a wide variety of tastes and applications. Sometimes crafted to accurately resemble wood and stone, luxury vinyl tiles can also add a natural look to living spaces, while new water proofing technology makes vinyl an excellent option for both bathrooms and kitchens. However, many considering a vinyl flooring option wonder if you can avoid labour costs and fit it yourself.

The pros of hiring a professional floor fitter

Installing vinyl floor solutions is among the most common DIY projects tackled by homeowners, but this doesn’t mean it’s the right option for you. Using a professional to fit any type of flooring can save you time and energy, and it can be affordable if you do your research. Some suppliers will even offer a free fitting service.

One advantage of having a professional floor fitter take on the job is the peace of mind it brings, as you know that your floor has been installed correctly. A vinyl floor that has a professional installation will typically last far longer than many DIY projects, offering you a return on the investment you stumped up to hire a qualified contractor.

Preparation involved and cost considerations

It’s worth considering all you may need to pay for and the time it will take to complete the job if you handle it yourself. First, you’ll need to track down the following tools or buy them if necessary – a carpenter’s square, a tape measure, utility knife, adhesive, if required by your chosen vinyl, and a floor roller, which can also be rented.

After you’ve selected the style of vinyl you want, your next job is to measure the space and work out how much flooring you’ll need. If a room is an odd shape, break your floor into areas you can measure separately, then add them together to find the total square footage of vinyl tiles you require. Purchase extras to cover accidents.

Before buying vinyl, ask yourself what thickness you will need and if an underlay is required. Thicker floors are suitable for high-traffic areas of your home, with more durable solutions holding up better under frequent use. If you’re adding flooring to a room you use less, such as where you sleep, a thinner option will usually fit the bill.

Not all floors require an underlay. In fact, there are products available designed to fit straight onto the subfloor. Underlay can be useful, however, if you want additional comfort levels or wish to raise the height of your floor slightly.

Full spread, floating, loose lay, glue down and peel and stick are all different approaches to fitting vinyl flooring. When your new vinyl tiles arrive, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation method to the letter when you start your project.

In summary, if you’re confident in your DIY abilities and want to fit a floor while you have time on your hands, make sure you’re prepared with everything you need. Otherwise, wait until lockdown lifts and have it professionally fitted to keep life simple.