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If you have a room that needs “sprucing up” it is drab and boring, and for quite a while you have contemplated what can be done… well, consider laying down a bright and cheery new vinyl sheet flooring. Some of us can remember the old “linoleum” made of linseed oil; this is not the same, the new vinyl comes in beautiful designs and colors and is a long wearing, easy laying, vinyl.
The sheet flooring comes in 6 ft. and 12 ft. widths. Measure your room with the entrance ways and length width and locations of any cabinets included. Make a drawing of the room and take it with you to the retailer who sells vinyl flooring, he will, by your figures, determine how much sheeting will be needed to make a seamless covering.
Loose lay:
This requires only the strength to move the vinyl into the correct position and you will need a sharp utility knife for cutting and trimming.
The base for the vinyl will need to be placed on a clean, dry, solid and flat. The only reason to install a new under-lay is if the base floor is damaged or rough. Rest the sheeting in the room for up to 24 hours so it will be more flexible.
In an empty room unroll vinyl, and trim to within 3 inches on all sides to allow for final fitting. Match the patterns by overlapping the seams. After obtaining the correct position place weights on the surface to avoid it slipping out of place. Trim to correct size by following room’s shape.
Fit to longest and straightest wall. Make cuts to inside corner until the flooring lies flat. Using a straight edge, press the vinyl between wall and floor. Trim along wall. An expansion gap of 1/8-in. needed to be left between wall and vinyl.
Around doorways:
Cut a flap that overlaps the threshold, and then make vertical cuts following the molding’s outline. Cut across to remove the vertical flaps after fitting.
Inconspicuous seams:
Overlap the flooring at least ½ in., being sure to match the pattern. Weight the flooring, then you will avoid slipping once matched. Use a straight edge along center of seam overlap and cut through both layers. Use adhesive or seam tape to adhere in place.
Metal strips:
To secure seams use metal strips, at entranceways. Fasten with nails or screws. The bottom of the closed door should be your centerline if there is no threshold. If there is no door place trim to the edge of the adjoining floor.
Positioning around fixtures:
This requires a pattern or template. Place a sheet of paper on each side of the fixture then draw the outline with a compass. Tape to vinyl and cut out shape. Trim with sharp utility knife.
On outside corners:
Trim a little at a time, cut as straight as you can. Be careful here because the weight of the sheeting can cause tearing.
Whew! Now you’re done! You may not have a perfect job the first time, however, it is unlikely anyone will notice your mistakes, if any. You should be satisfied with your accomplishment and the great look of the room!
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