With the increasing popularity of luxury vinyl planks (LVP), it comes as no surprise that they are dominating the flooring industry. These beautiful wood-look planks offer a wide range of realistic designs, colors, and textures. What’s more, they’re incredibly easy to install, making them a favorite choice for DIYers. However, one question remains: which direction should vinyl plank flooring be laid? In this article, we will explore some helpful tips to consider when laying your vinyl floors.
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LVP Direction Considerations
Before you dive into picking out patterns for your luxury vinyl flooring, it’s important to understand some key considerations that may dictate the direction of your layout.
Shape of the Room
Take a moment to analyze the shape of the room where you plan to install the vinyl planks. In general, it is recommended to run the planks parallel to the longest wall of the room. This can create an illusion of a bigger and wider space. For narrow areas such as hallways or long kitchens, running the LVP the length of the room can elongate the space and avoid cutting the planks into smaller pieces. If you have angled walls, a diagonal layout can be visually interesting.
Flow of the Light
Consider the direction of the natural light in the room. It is common practice to install flooring in the same direction as the leading source of natural light. This can help maximize the visual impact of the light and create a seamless flow. However, it’s important to balance this with the overall layout of the room. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different directions and patterns, such as diagonal or herringbone, to create a unique and visually appealing design.
Position of the Stairs
If your room includes a staircase, it’s important to consider the position of the stairs when deciding on the direction of the vinyl planks. For a cohesive look, it is often recommended to continue the same direction from one floor to the next. This ensures a uniform appearance and avoids any visual discontinuity.
Other Features
Additional features in the room can also influence the layout and pattern of the vinyl planks. Consider whether you want to emphasize a feature wall or a large piece of furniture. Running the planks perpendicular to the feature can draw attention to it. Alternatively, you may want to highlight the color or grain of your planks by placing them in a specific direction, such as aligning them with the light source.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, your personal preference should play a significant role in determining the direction and pattern of the vinyl planks. Don’t be afraid to trust your gut instinct and go against design norms if it aligns with your vision for the space. Consult with a qualified installer to get their professional opinion and ensure your flooring installation is done correctly.
LVP Patterns to Try
When it comes to patterns, there are several options to choose from. Some of the most popular patterns for luxury vinyl flooring are offset, diagonal, and herringbone.
- Offset: The offset or running bond pattern is the most common universal plank tile pattern. It involves staggering the planks, creating a visually pleasing look.
- Diagonal: The diagonal pattern adds dimension to a space by placing the planks at a 45-degree angle. This pattern can create a unique and modern look.
- Herringbone: The herringbone pattern, with its zigzag design, adds a touch of sophistication to any room. It creates a visually appealing pattern, and the planks meet at perfectly straight edges.
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No matter which pattern you choose, start laying your planks in the left-hand corner with a 1/4-inch space between the baseboard and vinyl tile. If you need to make cuts to create your desired pattern, a simple box cutter will do the job.
LVP Flooring Benefits
Before finalizing your decision, it’s important to understand the many benefits of luxury vinyl plank flooring. Both homeowners and landlords can enjoy these advantages:
- Realistic looks: Luxury vinyl planks can mimic the appearance of real hardwood and natural stone with impressive accuracy.
- Affordability: LVP is a more cost-effective option compared to hardwood or stone flooring, offering similar aesthetics at a lower price point.
- Durability: Vinyl planks are resistant to stains, scratches, water, and moisture, making them suitable for any room in the house.
- Easy maintenance: Simple care and maintenance, such as regular sweeping or mopping, are enough to keep the floors clean.
- Environmental-friendly options: Many vinyl choices are made from 100% recycled materials, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious consumers.
- Comfort and insulation: Adding padding underneath the floors provides extra cushion and improves sound absorption. Radiant heating can also be installed to make the floors warmer during the winter months.
Which Direction Will You Choose?
In the end, the direction and pattern of your luxury vinyl plank flooring should reflect your personal taste and the overall vision for the room. Take your time, consider the factors mentioned above, and don’t be afraid to seek professional advice if needed. Remember, the most important thing is that you’ll be enjoying your beautiful vinyl planks and their many benefits for years to come.
Additional Information:
For more detailed information on vinyl flooring, including installation costs for Luxury Vinyl Flooring, visit our website for our entire line of luxury vinyl planks.
Are you ready to start your DIY project? Find the perfect Luxury Vinyl Tile and Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring from MSI’s expansive Luxury Vinyl Flooring Collection. If you need personalized assistance, feel free to chat with us online or visit an MSI showroom or authorized dealer near you.
More on Luxury Vinyl Tile:
- Why Luxury Vinyl Tile Is the Best Flooring for Your Rental Property
- Can You Use Waterproof Vinyl Flooring On Shower Walls?
Comments or illustrative examples to make the article more valuable in practice
- It’s important to note that the direction of the vinyl planks can also affect the perception of the room’s size. Running the planks parallel to the longest wall can make a smaller room appear larger.
- In open-concept spaces, consider using the same direction for the vinyl planks to create a seamless flow throughout the area.
- Don’t forget to inspect the subfloor before installation to ensure it is clean, level, and free of any imperfections that could affect the final result.
- If you’re unsure about the installation process or need assistance, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional installer to ensure the flooring is installed correctly.
- Remember to leave an expansion gap around the edges of the room to accommodate for any movement or changes in the flooring due to temperature or humidity.
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