DIY Flooring

Installing vinyl flooring in a kitchen involves carefully preparing the subfloor, choosing the right underlayment, and properly installing the vinyl planks or sheets. For click-lock vinyl plank flooring, start by trimming the first plank and laying it with a slight expansion gap from the wall. Attach subsequent planks using the angle-and-snap method. Sheet vinyl requires applying adhesive and carefully laying the material, ensuring it's properly bonded to the subfloor with a floor roller. 

Detailed Steps for Click-Lock Vinyl Plank Flooring:

1. Prepare the Subfloor:
   Clean the subfloor thoroughly and ensure it's level and free of debris. 
   
2. Install Underlayment (Optional):
   If desired, install underlayment according to manufacturer's instructions, taping the seams together.
3.  Acclimate the Flooring:
   Allow the vinyl planks to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. 
   
4. Plan the Layout:
   Plan the layout of the planks, starting with a straight edge and staggering the seams for a more natural look. 
   
5. Install the First Row:
   Trim the short tongue edge of the first plank and lay it with an expansion gap (about 1/4 inch) from the wall. 
   
6. Attach Subsequent Planks:
   Attach subsequent planks by holding them at an angle and inserting the tongue into the groove of the previous plank, then lowering it to snap them together. 
   
7. Continue Laying Planks:
   Continue laying planks in the first row, trimming the last plank as needed. 
   
8. Start the Second Row:
   For the second row, use the same angle-and-snap method, attaching them to the first row and to each other. 
   
9. Trim and Install Border Planks:
   Trim the border planks and leave an expansion gap between the planks and the walls. 
   
10. Replace Baseboards:
    Replace the baseboards to cover the expansion gap. 
    

Detailed Steps for Sheet Vinyl Flooring:

1. Prepare the Subfloor: Clean and level the subfloor, addressing any imperfections. 
   
2. Acclimate the Vinyl: Let the sheet vinyl acclimate to the room's temperature for at least 48 hours. 
   
3. Lay Out the Vinyl: Carefully position the sheet vinyl in the room, folding it back on itself if needed. 
   
4. Apply Adhesive (if needed): Apply the adhesive to the subfloor according to the manufacturer's instructions, using a notched trowel. 
   
5. Cure the Adhesive: Allow the adhesive to reach the appropriate tackiness before laying the vinyl. 
   
6. Lay the Vinyl: Carefully lay the vinyl into the adhesive, pressing firmly to remove air pockets. 
   
7. Roll the Vinyl: Use a floor roller to ensure proper bonding and remove any air bubbles. 
   
8. Finish the Edges: Trim the edges of the vinyl and seal them with a seam sealer (if required). 
   
9. Install Moldings and Baseboards: Replace or install new moldings and baseboards. 
   Clean Up: Clean any adhesive residue and allow the adhesive to dry completely.