Here's a concise summary of the video:
The video covers 10 common mistakes to avoid when installing vinyl plank flooring. It begins with preparing the surface by removing old carpet and ensuring the subfloor is flat and free of protruding fasteners. The importance of removing baseboards for a cleaner look is discussed, as well as checking for dips or humps in the floor using a level. The video emphasizes the need for proper planning to avoid small pieces at the ends of rows and suggests starting with longer pieces at the beginning of rows to ensure a good stagger. It also highlights the importance of avoiding similar patterns next to each other by rotating through different stacks of planks. The video includes tips for cutting around obstacles like air vents and door jambs, and it concludes with the final steps of installing transition strips and baseboards for a finished look.
Remember, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations, especially regarding underlayment, to avoid voiding the warranty.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The first step in installing vinyl plank flooring is to remove the old flooring.
2. The old carpet and padding can be cut into strips to make removal easier.
3. The tack strips that hold the carpet in place can be removed with a pry bar.
4. The fasteners that hold the subfloor must be sunk below the surface to prevent them from showing through the new flooring.
5. A long bubble level can be used to check if the floor is flat enough for installation.
6. The floor can be patched with thin set or floor patch to fix any dips or unevenness.
7. The transition strip between the new flooring and the existing flooring should be installed before the new flooring is laid.
8. The first row of flooring should be started in the left corner of the longest wall near the door.
9. The flooring should be staggered to avoid small pieces at the end of rows.
10. A miter saw or other specialized tools are not necessary to cut the flooring, as it can be cut with a utility knife and snapped along the line.
11. Similar patterns should not be laid next to each other, but should be staggered to avoid an eyesore.
12. The flooring should be laid in a way that avoids small pieces at the end of rows.
13. An air vent in the floor can be accommodated by adjusting the location of the vent along the length of the board.
14. The flooring can be cut to fit around obstructions such as closet doors and bump-outs.
15. A pull bar can be used to pull the flooring tight and secure it in place.
16. The final plank should be lower than the carpet in the hallway to ensure a smooth transition.
17. The manufacturer's recommendations for underlayment should be followed, and an extra barrier should not be used if it is not required.
18. The warranty may be voided if an extra barrier is used when it is not required.
19. The baseboards should be replaced after the new flooring is installed.
20. The final inspection should be done after the installation is complete to ensure that everything is secure and looks good.