In this video, Brad from Fix This Build That shares 10 common mistakes to avoid when installing vinyl plank flooring. He starts by removing old carpet and preparing the subfloor, checking for any raised fasteners and unevenness. He also discusses the importance of undercutting door trim and using the right tools.
The mistakes he covers include:
1. Not ensuring the subfloor is level and free of raised fasteners.
2. Leaving baseboards installed, which can create uneven gaps.
3. Not checking the floor for dips or humps.
4. Not undercutting door jambs and trim.
5. Not staggering the seams of the planks.
6. Thinking that expensive tools are necessary for the job.
7. Not planning the layout to avoid small pieces at the end of rows.
8. Laying similar patterns next to each other.
9. Not adjusting the placement of air vents to avoid cutting through the middle of a plank.
10. Using an underlayment when it's not necessary, which can void the warranty.
Throughout the video, Brad shares tips and tricks for a successful installation, including using a long bubble level to check for unevenness, using a scraper or pry bar to remove raised fasteners, and staggering the seams of the planks to create a more natural look.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The project involves installing vinyl plank flooring in a room.
2. The room's old carpet and padding were removed before the installation.
3. The carpet was held down by tack strips along the wall, while the carpet pad was held down by staples.
4. The tack strips were removed using a pry bar, and the staples were pulled out with pliers.
5. The subfloor was inspected for any raised fasteners or screws, which were then hammered down or removed.
6. The subfloor was checked for flatness using a long bubble level.
7. A dip in the subfloor was found and filled with thin set, a type of adhesive.
8. The baseboards were removed to ensure a clean installation.
9. A transition molding was installed to cover the expansion gap between the flooring and the wall.
10. The flooring was installed starting from the corner of the room, with the first row being the most critical.
11. The planks were staggered to ensure a random pattern.
12. The flooring was cut using a miter saw, but other tools like a handsaw or jigsaw can also be used.
13. The planks were locked into place using a mallet and tapping block.
14. The flooring was installed in rows, with each row being staggered to ensure a random pattern.
15. The air vent in the floor was adjusted to ensure it was at least 8 inches away from the short edge of the plank.
16. The final row of flooring was cut to fit around the air vent.
17. The transition strip was installed into the channel at the doorway.
18. The flooring has an underlayment built onto the back, so an extra barrier is not required.
19. The manufacturer's recommendations should be followed, and an extra underlayment should not be used.
20. The final inspection was done, and the flooring was found to be satisfactory.