Anyone install their own vinyl flooring?
jimblodgett
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
Just about reached the limit of my patience with installers not calling when they say they will, not showing up and am considering installing my own vinyl flooring this time. I’ve done lots of bathrooms and small, seamless pieces before, but I’ve never tried a seam.
How about it, any cautions? Any advice you can offer?
Thanks.
TIPI,TIPI,TIPI!
Replies
Never done a seam, but I will put in a plug for DIY -- it's not nearly as hard as they make it out in reasonably simple situations.
I did a roughly 12x12 bath (slightly odd shaped) using the kraft paper method. Worked out fine, even though we were really, really tight on the piece of goods provided (had to fudge 1/4" or so on all 4 edges to get a fit).
happy?
I have found the Carpet One franchise up there is pretty good to deal with. They have a pretty good warranty that includes installation. A friend has recommended the one in Lacey/Olympia and I have spoken with another person that lived in Federal Way that says the same. My experience is with the store in Aberdeen.
If this is stuff you have already purchased, might not be as helpful.
BTW, you got any relatives running around in Chico, Ca? Engineer/Planner for PG&E with same last name. Don't know if Blodgett is common, I've never heard it until you. If you do, I got some smuzzing to do...
One of the few things I won't tackle. That, and mudding drywall. I'd leave it to the pros.
Carl
Jim:
There are three things, off the top of my head, that I will not do:
I will not wrestle with a pig.
I am not gay.
I will NO LONGER do vinyl flooring.
Every time I've done it, it's been a DIYer with DW; the only time we've really had serious words. I think it ranks in there somewhere with hanging wallpaper. I hate it!
BTW, remember where we had lunch sometime back? Went to an annual "Customer Appreciation dinner" last night at that facility....I have to say, it was the best buffet food I've had....ever! (You're always welcome to hit me up for the tab whenever).
Larry Haun was there....3 years ago, he won the big doorprize, a big TV/satellite entertainment center; last night he was skunked (I won a sweatshirt with the logo of one of the custom cabinet outfits that I hate!).
Jim its almost as easy as sticking grace Ice and water sheild down.
If you have a pattern just make sure that you line it up . I used Henerys mastic to put the stuff down . If you buy from a good flooring store they should be able to give any advice you need. But go for it , it ain't like paperhanging Its a whole lot easier. Helll you don't have too hold it over your head.
Yeah, the trick is to use the template to cut it to fit, dry fit in the space, then peel back half and apply mastic. When the first half is down, peel back the second half and glop it down.When the setup allows the above approach (ie, not a terribly odd shape, and not terribly large) it's just about impossible to screw it up.
If ignorance is bliss why aren't more people
happy?
Did it once, not too bad, but I'm kinda dumb :-). Seriously, our kitchen was a foot wider than the vinyl roll, had to match the pattern (very carefully) and stick it down. We also used Henry's vinyl floor cement. After the stuff was down for 24 hrs. we went back and applied the seam sealer. Be real careful with that stuff, goes on like 'crazy glue', but softens and fuses the edges together. If it's a complicated pattern, best way to match is overlap, match the next section, then cut thru both pieces (like with wallpaper. Then the seam matches exactly.
Don't get in a hurry, and don't get in a fight with the wife ;-)
If it's a complicated pattern, best way to match is overlap, match the next section, then cut thru both pieces (like with wallpaper.
This is the technique jim. Use a heavy flat straight edge and a sharp knife.A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Get a floor roller if you glue down the whole floor.
If you plan to do this yourself, the best advice you can get is from the website of the flooring manufacturer. Most have detailed installation instructions online. Including seaming, etc. Also, there are different installation methods for sheet vinyl flooring, for example, some types call for full spread glue down, while other are perimeter type floors. The perimeter type allows the center to "float" a bit, which could help hide minimal subfloor irregularities. If you are installing over 1 layer of old flooring, and use a full glue down, you will likely see the pattern of the old floor telegraph through. Also, if you don't use the manufacturer's recommended adhesive and sealer, if necessary, and have a problem, your warranty is hosed. The put something in their adhesives that tag them and can reveal if it's theirs. They can also tell if insufficient adhesive or too much was used by looking at the sample. Much to consider.
Your are receiving some good advice posted in this thread. I however, would throughly investigate the website of your manufacturer and see if you want to try it yourself after you know what's involved. You may be better off going with a good retailer and their installers typically follow the schedule set up by the store. That would definitely be my choice. Then the onus is on the store that everything is done correctly and you have better recourse options if you have a problem later.
Also think about if you have a fridge in that room. Some floors tear when you try to put it back without proper floor protection. (I think a big piece of cardboard would work). That would be awful if you spent a day on your knees installing! Good luck in the decision making process and if you decide to DIY.