One question we often hear at our flooring store is, "Can you install luxury vinyl flooring over concrete?" The answer is a resounding YES! In fact, concrete is an excellent subfloor for luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank. Let's dive into why this is the case and what to consider for a successful installation.
Why is concrete a good subfloor for LVT and LVP flooring?
- Stability: Concrete provides a stable and solid foundation for luxury vinyl flooring, minimizing the risk of warping or buckling over time.
- Moisture-resistant: LVT and LVP flooring are waterproof, making them suitable for concrete subfloors, which can sometimes be prone to dampness. However, it's still important to ensure the concrete is properly cured and moisture tested before installation.
- Compatibility: Luxury vinyl can be installed directly over concrete using various methods, including glue-down, click-lock, or loose-lay.
Key considerations for a successful installation
- Moisture testing: As mentioned earlier, even though luxury vinyl flooring is moisture resistant, it's crucial to ensure your concrete subfloor is adequately dry before proceeding. Conduct a moisture test and address any excess moisture issues before installation.
- Leveling: The concrete surface should be level and smooth. Any unevenness can telegraph through the luxury vinyl floor, impacting its appearance and potentially causing damage. If necessary, use a self-leveling compound to smooth out any imperfections.
- Cleaning: The concrete surface should be thoroughly cleaned and free of any debris, dust, or grease. This ensures a proper bond between the adhesive and the concrete (for glue-down installations) or prevents any particles from affecting the click-lock mechanism.
- Underlayment: While some luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank products come with an attached underlayment, in most cases, an underlayment is recommended over concrete. It provides additional moisture protection, sound insulation, and comfort underfoot. Choose an underlayment that's compatible with your chosen luxury vinyl and installation method.
- Expansion gap: Allow for a slight expansion gap around the perimeter of the room to accommodate any minor expansion or contraction of the luxury vinyl floor due to temperature and humidity changes.
Benefits of choosing luxury vinyl floors for your concrete floor
- Wide range of styles: LVT and LVP flooring come in a vast array of colors, textures, and patterns, mimicking the beautiful look of natural materials like wood, stone, or tile. You can easily find the perfect luxury vinyl floor to complement your design style.
- Durability: Luxury vinyl is known for its incredible durability, able to withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches, dents, and stains. It's a great choice for busy households and high-traffic areas.
- Waterproof: Luxury vinyl's waterproof properties makes it an ideal choice for basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas prone to spills or moisture.
- Comfort: This floor provides a comfortable and warm underfoot experience, especially when paired with an appropriate underlayment.
- Easy maintenance: Cleaning luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank is a breeze. Routine sweeping and damp mopping are usually all that's needed to keep this floor looking its best.
Your experts on LVT and LVP flooring in Hurst, TX
Installing luxury vinyl flooring over concrete is definitely achievable and, in fact, highly recommended. With proper preparation and installation, you can transform your concrete floors into stunning, durable, and comfortable surfaces that enhance your home's beauty and value. If you're ready to explore the possibilities, visit iStone Floors & More and let our experts guide you through the exciting world of luxury vinyl floors! Our showroom in Hurst, TX, serves Hurst, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Southlake, Keller, Irving, North Richland Hills, Colleyville, Bedford, and Euless, TX.
