Vinyl plank is a flooring option that is considered in many different parts of the home. Is it also something that you should consider installing on your bathroom floor?
The bathroom floor is one of the best places to install vinyl plank flooring because of its water resistance and comfort. Since most people tend to be in their bare feet in the bathroom, it can really make a difference.
Of course, there are some things to consider that would make a difference whether you install vinyl plank flooring or not. In addition, you want to make sure that you are doing things right from the start and that would include preparing things properly.
In this article, we will cover a number of different aspects of vinyl plank flooring and how to install it in the bathroom properly. Regardless of whether you are running it to the wall or up to a tub, you can have a floor that you could be proud of.
Can You Put Vinyl Plank On the Bathroom Floor? (How To)
One of the primary reasons why people choose vinyl plank flooring for use in the bathroom is because of its makeup. It is made of PVC, so you can easily get it wet and not have to worry about it swelling or warping, similar to what you would get from laminate flooring.
In fact, that is the primary reason why people use vinyl plank flooring in the first place in the bathroom. It works very well because even if you get it wet, it is not going to ruin it.
That being said, there are other factors to consider, including the type of vinyl plank flooring you are using. There are certain types of flooring that contain a resinous core and if that is the case, you would not want to get it wet. If you’re going to install vinyl plank flooring in the bathroom, make sure that it is made of PVC.
As you will learn, there are also different types of installation methods and each of them has its place. The three basic types include the following:
Peel and Stick – This is the least expensive option but it is also the one that will cause the most issues in the long run.
Glue down – A popular option for use in the bathroom, this floor is permanently put in place by gluing it down.
Floating – A floating vinyl floor is perhaps the best option for use in the bathroom. As the name would suggest, it floats above the floor and is not attached to the floor directly. Each piece is attached to the other with a tongue and groove.
As long as you take the proper precautions and use a high-quality floor, you can have something you will be proud of in the long run. It will not only work well in the bathroom, it will become your favorite part of the bathroom.
Should You Put Vinyl Plank On the Bathroom Floor?
One of the biggest factors associated with using vinyl plank in the bathroom is knowing if it is a good idea. We’ve already established the fact you can use it, so is it a good idea to use it?
Vinyl plank flooring has both pros and cons that can be considered. Understanding these can help you to make your decision as to whether you should use it in the bathroom or not.
As far as the benefits are concerned, you have the following to consider:
Durability: When you install vinyl flooring, you have something that is quite durable. Some types of vinyl flooring are more durable than others, such as a glue-down floor.
Affordability: Another reason why many people choose vinyl flooring in the bathroom is that it is affordable. It works well in the area where water can be a problem and it will not break your budget.
Repair – Try as you may, there are going to be times when you have problems and you need to repair the bathroom floor. If you are using the right type of vinyl plank, it is relatively easy to do. That is not true of glue down.
Beauty – Vinyl plank flooring is made in such a way that it looks like wood flooring. There are even some styles that look like stone. When you have it in place, you will have a hard time telling that it is not the real deal.
There are also some cons that need to be considered, including the following:
Moisture – Although you are using a floor that is waterproof, that doesn’t mean that moisture is never a problem. If water gets underneath the floor it could lead to the development of mold and mildew or it could damage the subfloor.
This is something that can be overcome by treating the floor properly. After installation, you can run a bead of caulking around the edge of the floor to keep it sealed properly.
In addition, you should avoid having standing water on the floor, regardless of whether it is vinyl or any other type of floor.
What Tools Do You Need To Put Vinyl Plank On Bathroom Floor?
As is the case with any job, there are going to be certain tools that are necessary to get the job done. Here are the tools you will need for installing vinyl plank flooring in the bathroom:
Crowbar – Either a crowbar or a demo bar is going to be invaluable. That is especially true if you have to tear up any tile or other flooring to get down to the subfloor.
Mallett – A rubber mallet is also important for this and many other DIY projects. Use a non-marring mallet so you don’t ruin the floor while shifting it.
Tape Measures – A long and a short tape measure are recommended.
Cutting Tools – There are many different tools you can use to cut vinyl plank flooring. Anything from a utility knife to a laminate cutter is beneficial.
Kneepads – Make sure that you wear your kneepads. You’ll thank me later.
Safety Glasses – Safety glasses are recommended for any DIY project. You only have one pair of eyes. Be sure to protect them.
What Preparations Do You Need To Install Vinyl Plank On Bathroom Floor?
It is important to prepare the floor properly before you install vinyl plank flooring. A number of things can be considered in this regard, including the following:
Select Your Vinyl – There are a number of different options available for vinyl plank flooring. The biggest decision that you have to make is how you will install the floor.
Common options include peel and stick, glue down, and floating. Each of them has its own benefits and disadvantages that should be considered before you make your decision. The most common vinyl plank flooring installed in bathrooms is a floating floor.
Prepare the Subfloor – If the subfloor is flat and relatively free of damage, you can begin the installation process almost right away. If there is any damage to the subfloor or if you are installing over tiles, you will need to consider it because the cracks and seams will show up through the vinyl eventually.
When it comes to tile, you can either float the floor or remove the tile. Personally, I think that floating the floor is a much easier option.
Clean and Clean Again – The final step in the process of preparing the subfloor is to clean it thoroughly. Sweep the floor, use a shop vac, and run a straight edge over the floor to make sure that there is nothing protruding from it. You want the floor to be absolutely flat and clean because anything under the vinyl floor will show up eventually.
Copyright protected content owner: ReadyToDIY.com and was initially posted on October 1, 2022.
How To Install Vinyl Plank On Bathroom Floor
Now that the preparation is out of the way, it’s time to do the installation. This is the way to install the most popular option, tongue and groove floating vinyl plank floor.
Step 1: Trim – On the first vinyl plank, you will want to trim the tongue from the edge. This can be done using a sharp utility knife.
Step 2: Install – The first row should be installed next to the wall. If you have a baseboard installed in the area, you can put it under the baseboard to hide any gap that exists. It is always best to leave a gap for expansion and contraction.
Step 3: Click and Lock – Each subsequent piece of vinyl plank flooring will be snapped into place on the previous piece. You will continue to use this method as you work your way across the room. There is nothing wrong with working on the planks as you install them.
Step 4: Trim – After installing all the floor, you will need to trim the final piece. It can be trimmed down to size and then installed in place.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on October 1, 2022.
Step 5: Caulking – Protect the underside of the floor by caulking around the edge. This will keep water from getting underneath it.
Step 6: Replace the Trim – Replace the baseboard and if you have a space by the tub, you can use a rubberized trim to fill the gap.
Vinyl plank flooring is one of the best options available for a bathroom floor. It is easy to maintain, easy to install, and stands up to a lot of water.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on October 1, 2022.