If you’re looking for beautiful, economical floor that will stand up pet traffic, accidents and general wear and tear, you should consider vinyl plank. Not only is this flooring material pet-friendly, but you can install it yourself over the weekend. All you need is a few simple tools, a clean floor and a bit of hard work on your part. Here’s everything you’ll need to know to get started.
Cost of Flooring
Just like other flooring materials, the price of vinyl plank flooring can run anywhere from budget-friendly to cost prohibitive – depending on the floor you select. However, the good news is that you can easily find pre-pasted planks for less than one dollar per square foot at your local home improvement store.
Most vinyl plank is sold by the carton and usually contains about 30 square feet per box. The best way to determine how much you will need is to measure the size of your room, including any closets you will be flooring, then add at least 20 percent for waste and future repairs.
What makes this flooring so terrific is that it is so user-friendly, almost anyone can install it. That means you’ll save the cost of having it professionally installed – which is sometimes more expensive than the flooring material itself.
Preparation
Depending on the condition of your sub-floor, the hardest part of laying a vinyl plank floor may the preparation. The sub-floor must be clean, even and free of debris. Talk to the experts at your home improvement store to determine what will be needed for your particular application.
Some floors need nothing more than a good wash and dry, while others may need patching or leveling for proper installation. Don’t let this deter you. These, too, are easy fixes most homeowners can accomplish. Patching and self-leveling compounds are inexpensive, go down quickly and dry fast.
Installation Do’s and Don’ts
If you’ve ever installed peel and stick tiles, you’ll have no problem installing vinyl plank flooring. All you will need is a sharp utility knife and straight edge for cutting. Just remember to stagger your plank pattern to look like a real wood floor and keep your seams tight. Some materials will expand and contract in the heat and cold; but, then again, a wood floor would do the same.
Beware, however, like peel and stick tiles, vinyl planks are generally not a good choice for outdoor applications or anywhere the flooring would be exposed to excessive heat. Heat does not allow the glue to set properly; therefore, it’s also important to lay your floor in a reasonably cool room for the best results.
Maintenance
Overall, vinyl plank floors are easy to maintain. You can sweep, vacuum, wash or dry them without wearing out the floor. They don’t harbor dust, dust mites or animal hair – making them a good choice for allergy sufferers, too. Best of all, if you do manage to ruin a piece, they are easy to replace yourself.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and pet-friendly floor you can install yourself, try vinyl plank. It’s a beautiful and durable alternative to wood or laminate that you and your pets can live with.