Vinyl tile installation, whether for residential or commercial settings, is a project that can significantly enhance the appearance and functionality of a space. Armstrong Flooring, a leading name in flooring solutions, provides detailed instructions for installing vinyl tile, including luxury vinyl tile (LVT), vinyl composition tile (VCT), and engineered tile. This guide compiles and clarifies the key steps, tools, and considerations necessary for a successful installation, based on official installation instructions and product guidelines.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Before beginning any vinyl tile installation, proper preparation is essential to ensure both the longevity and aesthetic quality of the finished floor. This includes understanding the type of product being installed, the appropriate tools and materials, and any special considerations outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Choosing the Right Installation Method
Armstrong Flooring offers several installation methods, each suited to different types of vinyl tile and user skill levels. The primary methods include:
Peel-and-Stick (Self-Adhesive): This is the simplest and most accessible method for DIY users. The tile comes with an adhesive backing that is exposed by peeling away a protective liner. This method is ideal for small spaces such as bathrooms or laundry rooms and requires no special tools.
Floating Locking Systems: These systems allow the tiles or planks to be interlocked without the need for adhesive. They "float" over the subfloor, making them easy to install and, in some cases, removable for future repairs or replacements. This method is common for luxury vinyl planks (LVP) and is suitable for both residential and commercial environments.
Full-Spread Adhesive Installation: This method involves applying adhesive to the entire surface of the subfloor before placing the tiles. It is typically used for commercial-grade vinyl tile such as VCT and requires more experience and precise tools. Adhesive types vary depending on the product, including S-515, S-1000, S-319, and Flip Spray Adhesive.
Grouted Installation: Some engineered tile products, such as AlternaVersaStyle, require a grouted installation. In these cases, Armstrong S-693 FlexStrong™ Premixed Sanded Acrylic Grout is recommended for filling the joints between tiles. Grouted installations are more labor-intensive and typically used in high-traffic or commercial spaces.
The installation method should be selected based on the product type, the environment where it will be installed, and the user’s level of experience. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific product requirements.
Budgeting for the Project
A well-planned budget is critical for a successful installation. Costs should include not only the flooring itself but also any necessary tools, materials, and labor. For example, if the existing floor needs to be removed or the subfloor repaired, these costs can add significantly to the overall budget. Additional expenses may include furniture removal, disposal of old materials, and any protective underlayment or trim.
It is also important to consider whether the installation will be done by the homeowner or a professional. While DIY installation is feasible for many vinyl tile products, especially those with peel-and-stick or floating systems, hiring a professional ensures that the job is done correctly and efficiently. This is particularly recommended for full-spread adhesive or grouted installations, which require more technical expertise.
Acclimation Requirements
Acclimation is a crucial step in the installation process, allowing the flooring to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the installation environment. While most luxury vinyl tile does not require acclimation, it is recommended if the flooring has been stored in extreme temperatures or if the subfloor is not yet at room conditions. The typical acclimation period is 48 hours, during which the flooring should be kept at room temperature in the installation area.
Acclimation helps prevent warping, buckling, or other issues that can arise when the flooring is subjected to sudden environmental changes. Always follow the specific instructions provided with the product, as some may have unique acclimation requirements.
Tools and Materials
Having the right tools and materials on hand is essential for a smooth and efficient installation. The specific items needed may vary depending on the installation method, but the following are commonly used for Armstrong vinyl tile:
- Utility Knife: Used for cutting tiles to size, especially in areas with irregular shapes or obstructions.
- Carpenter’s Square: Helps ensure accurate and straight cuts, particularly when working with corners or edges.
- Roller (100 lb. for Commercial): Used to apply pressure and ensure proper adhesion, especially in full-spread adhesive installations.
- Tile Cutter or Utility Blade: For precise cutting of tiles, particularly in grouted or adhesive installations.
- Underlayment: Required for some products to provide a smooth, level surface and to reduce noise.
- Adhesive and Grout: Specific types are recommended for each product, such as S-515, S-1000, S-319, or Flip Spray Adhesive for VCT. Grouted installations require S-693 FlexStrong™ Grout.
- Trim and Molding: Coordinated trims and moldings help finish the installation and cover expansion gaps or transitions between rooms.
- Cleaners and Maintenance Supplies: After installation, it is important to use the recommended cleaners for vinyl flooring to avoid damaging the surface.
Always verify the manufacturer’s instructions for a complete list of required tools and materials. Some products may require additional items, such as a notched trowel for adhesive application or a grout float for grouted joints.
Installation Process
The installation process for Armstrong vinyl tile involves a series of steps that must be followed carefully to ensure a professional-looking result. These steps are outlined in the product-specific instructions and should be reviewed thoroughly before beginning the installation.
Preparing the Subfloor
Before placing the tiles, the subfloor must be clean, dry, and free of debris. It should also be level and free of any irregularities that could affect the performance of the flooring. For commercial-grade products, additional preparation may be required, such as applying a primer or underlayment to ensure proper adhesion.
In some cases, the subfloor may need to be repaired or leveled. This is particularly important for full-spread adhesive or grouted installations, where even minor imperfections can affect the outcome. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for subfloor preparation and ensure that the surface is suitable for the type of vinyl tile being installed.
Laying Out the Floor
Proper layout is essential for achieving a balanced and visually appealing floor. The first step is to determine the starting point, which is typically the center of the room or a location that allows for even distribution of tiles around the perimeter. A chalk line or laser level can be used to mark the layout and ensure straight and even rows.
For floating systems, it is important to leave a small expansion gap along the walls and around obstacles to accommodate natural movement. This gap is typically covered by trim or molding after installation. For adhesive and grouted installations, the layout should be planned to minimize cutting and ensure that the tiles fit snugly together.
Applying Adhesive and Grout
For full-spread adhesive installations, the adhesive should be applied evenly across the subfloor using a notched trowel. The type of trowel and notch size will depend on the adhesive being used. For example, S-515 adhesive recommends a U-notch trowel with specific measurements, while S-1000 adhesive requires a different application method.
Once the adhesive is applied, the tiles are placed in position and pressed firmly to ensure proper adhesion. Excess adhesive can be removed with a putty knife before it dries. After the adhesive has cured, the grout is applied to fill the joints between tiles. Grout should be worked into the joints with a grout float and then wiped off the tile surface with a damp sponge.
For grouted installations, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s drying times and cleaning instructions. Traffic should be avoided until the grout has completely dried, typically 24 to 72 hours, depending on the product. The final cleaning should be done with the recommended cleaner to remove any grout haze.
Cutting and Fitting Tiles
Cutting tiles to fit around obstacles such as columns, doorways, and irregular walls is a common task during installation. A tile cutter or utility blade can be used to make precise cuts, and a carpenter’s square can help ensure accuracy. When cutting tiles, it is important to leave a small margin of error to account for expansion and contraction.
For peel-and-stick installations, the tiles can be trimmed after placement by peeling back the adhesive and cutting with a utility knife. Floating systems allow for some adjustment after the tiles are in place, but adhesive and grouted installations require more precise cutting to ensure a tight fit.
Final Steps
Once the tiles are in place and the adhesive or grout has dried, the final steps involve cleaning the floor and replacing any trim or molding. A dry terry cloth towel can be used for a final cleaning, and any remaining grout haze can be removed with a 3M pad and the recommended cleaner. It is important to avoid heavy traffic and moisture until the installation is fully cured.
For full-spread adhesive and grouted installations, it is recommended to wait at least 24 to 72 hours before placing furniture or heavy objects on the floor. Hardboard or underlayment panels should be used to protect the floor when moving large items back into the room. For peel-and-stick and floating systems, light foot traffic can typically begin immediately, but heavy rolling traffic should be avoided for at least 72 hours.
Post-Installation Care
After the installation is complete, proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the appearance and performance of the vinyl tile. Armstrong Flooring recommends using the appropriate cleaners and avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the surface. For example, Armstrong Once ’n Done® Resilient & Ceramic Floor Cleaner is recommended for cleaning the floor after the grout has dried.
It is important to avoid scrubbing or washing the floor for at least five days after installation, especially if adhesive was used. Solvents and grout haze removers should also be avoided, as they can negatively affect the floor. If a grout haze remains, it should be removed with a 3M pad and the recommended cleaner, followed by a final rinse with clean water and a soft cloth.
Safety and Precautions
Safety is a key consideration during and after the installation process. Armstrong Flooring provides specific warnings and precautions in the installation instructions, particularly for products that may contain asbestos or other hazardous materials. For example, when removing existing resilient flooring, it is important to avoid creating dust and to follow proper work practices to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers and crystalline silica.
When handling adhesives, grout, and other installation materials, it is important to use protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a dust mask. Smoking should also be avoided during and after installation, as it can increase the risk of serious health issues if asbestos fibers are present.
Conclusion
Armstrong vinyl tile installation requires careful planning, the right tools, and adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions. Whether using a peel-and-stick, floating, adhesive, or grouted system, each installation method has specific requirements that must be followed to ensure a successful result. By understanding the steps involved and taking the necessary precautions, both DIY users and professional installers can achieve a high-quality finish that meets the needs of their space.
Proper acclimation, subfloor preparation, and layout planning are essential for a smooth installation, while the correct application of adhesive and grout ensures long-term durability. After installation, following the recommended cleaning and maintenance procedures will help preserve the appearance and performance of the vinyl tile for years to come.