Because loose lay vinyl lacks a rigid, locking structure, it relies entirely on the subfloor for its support. Any irregularities in your subfloor will eventually become visible as dents or waves in your finished floor. Whether you are working with plywood or concrete, the surface must be 'flat.' We define this as having no variation greater than 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span. If the subfloor is not flat, you must use a patching compound or a self-leveler to bridge the gaps and create a perfectly smooth substrate. Furthermore, the subfloor must be debris-free. Even a small piece of trapped gravel or a dried bit of joint compound under the planks will eventually push up through the surface and create a wear point. Always vacuum the subfloor thoroughly and check it for any high spots that need to be sanded down. For wood subfloors, ensure all seams are flush and that there are no loose boards. A solid, clean, and level foundation is the key to a professional-looking installation that lasts for decades.
Key considerations
- loose lay LVP
- subfloor preparation
- vinyl subfloor
- flooring prep
- loose lay flooring
- subfloor prep