Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring is chosen by many homeowners due to the highly durable and practical nature of the product - as well as a budget friendly option. However, certain signs can still show that it has been installed incorrectly.
With many choosing to reduce costs by self-installing the product, or calling upon a cowboy company that claims expertise in vinyl installation cheaply, there are many problems that can arise. Thankfully, they are fixable - but we recommend using a professional fitter from Galloway Flooring Manchester.
Problems You'll Encounter
It is true that luxury vinyl planks are simple to install over all other flooring types, but that does not mean you are safeguarded against installation-related failures. Such failures can come from the vinyl plank quality, the type of adhesive that you use as well as how you decide to have them installed.
Dimensional instability, curling, cupping and the floor lifting are all issues that inexperienced installers will face when the moisture level of the subfloor and room in general are unchecked and unmoderated. That results in the overall look of the floor being ruined and the life expectancy being limited. LVT is influenced by temperature, which makes where you install them a very critical factor to their effectiveness.
Whilst LVT is versatile, it is also softer than most materials. That makes it very important to ensure that no moisture seeps to the underside of your planks.
Peaks
Peaking is the instance where two vinyl planks squash against each other and lift at the joints as a result. The cause for this condition is when inadequate space is left between planks to accomodate expansion and contraction during the installation.
An easy fix is trimming the vinyl planks along the wall or removing some of the moldings. The peaking will not immediately vanish, but you can flatten down by placing a weight on it overnight or a couple of days. Peaking can also be a direct result of sunlight, moisture or water seeping through the joint. It can also be a result of moldings in your doorway or around the room being nailed or fixed to the floor - both of which would prevent expansion.
Warping
Warping is another possibility that is caused by the tiles or planks expanding due to changes in temperature. Direct sunlight exposure is the most common cause during your installation.
If you have glued down your planks, warping can be a direct result of water spilling and not being clean up immediately, seeping through the seems and affecting your subfloor. The best way to avoid warping is to keep up regular maintenance to your vinyl flooring, wiping up all spillages as they happen and alloting gaps or spaces inbetween planks to create the required expansion room.
If Unsure, Work With Us
LVT is a product designed to greatly improve the look of your home for a long time for little cost. As you can see, small problems that get overlooked lead to huge problems that cannot be ignored.
The best way to avoid these problems is to have your flooring fitted by a professional from Galloway Flooring. Our team understands potential problems, causes and solutions so that you get the most from your flooring choice. Your LVT will remain durable aslong as it is given the right amount of care - not just through its life, but in its installation.
For all information on luxury vinyl flooring in Manchester, contact our friendly team and never worry about your flooring staying healthy.
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