LVP Level Floors: How Flat? (3/16″ or Bust!)

I’ve seen it all, from gorgeous hardwood installs to… well, let’s just say some less-than-perfect LVP jobs.

And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:

Getting your subfloor right is absolutely crucial for a long-lasting, beautiful LVP floor.

We’re talking about that magic number: 3/16″.

That’s the flatness tolerance you need to aim for.

Think of it as the secret sauce to LVP success.

Why is LVP such a hot topic these days?

It’s simple: you get a fantastic look (wood, tile, you name it!)

Without breaking the bank like you would with traditional materials.

It’s durable, easy to clean, and stands up to kids and pets like a champ.

But here’s the kicker: all those benefits go out the window if your floor isn’t flat!

So, buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world of LVP and floor flatness.

We’ll cover everything from understanding LVP to prepping your subfloor.

We’ll also discuss whether you should DIY or call in a pro.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what it takes to get that perfect LVP install.

Let’s get started!

Understanding LVP Flooring

Okay, so what exactly is Luxury Vinyl Plank?

Think of it as the chameleon of the flooring world.

It mimics the look of real wood, stone, or tile, but it’s made from synthetic materials.

This gives it a ton of advantages.

Like, moisture resistance, making it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.

LVP is typically constructed in multiple layers:

• The wear layer: This is the top layer, which protects against scratches and wear.

• The print layer: This is where the magic happens.

  A high-definition image gives the LVP its realistic look.

• The core layer: This provides stability and waterproof capabilities.

• The backing layer: The foundation.

  It adds support and cushioning.

You’ll find LVP in various styles and thicknesses.

From thin, flexible planks to thicker, rigid core options.

Here’s a quick rundown of popular LVP styles:

• Wood-look LVP: Mimics hardwood flooring, with various wood species and finishes.

• Tile-look LVP: Replicates ceramic or stone tiles, often used in bathrooms and kitchens.

• Stone-look LVP: Offers the appearance of natural stone.

  Without the high cost and maintenance.

Now, let’s talk installation.

The most common LVP installation types are:

• Click-lock: These planks have interlocking edges that snap together.

  Making installation relatively easy.

• Glue-down: These planks are glued directly to the subfloor.

  Providing a more permanent and stable installation.

• Loose-lay: These planks rely on friction and weight to stay in place.

Each type has its pros and cons, but they all share one thing in common:

They perform best on a flat, level surface.

The Importance of Level Floors

Why all the fuss about level floors?

Imagine building a house on a shaky foundation.

It wouldn’t last long, right?

The same goes for LVP.

An uneven subfloor can cause a whole host of problems.

Let’s break it down:

• Buckling and Warping: Uneven spots create stress points on the LVP.

  This can lead to unsightly buckling or warping over time.

• Gapping: If the subfloor isn’t flat, the LVP planks might not connect properly.

  Leaving gaps between the planks.

• Reduced Lifespan: The constant stress from an uneven surface can weaken the LVP.

  Shortening its lifespan and costing you money in the long run.

• Hollow Sounds: Walking on LVP installed over an uneven surface can create hollow sounds.

  No one wants that!

I remember one job where a homeowner insisted on installing LVP over an existing tile floor.

It had some pretty significant dips and humps.

I warned them it wasn’t a good idea, but they were determined to save money on subfloor prep.

Fast forward six months, and they were calling me back.

The LVP was buckling in several spots.

The seams were separating.

They ended up paying more to have the LVP removed and the subfloor properly leveled.

The moral of the story?

Don’t skip the subfloor prep!

It’s an investment that pays off in the long run.

The 3/16″ Standard

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty:

The 3/16″ standard.

What does it mean, and how do you achieve it?

The 3/16″ standard essentially means that within a 10-foot radius, your floor should not deviate more than 3/16 of an inch from being perfectly flat.

Think of it like this:

Imagine placing a 10-foot straightedge on your floor.

At no point should the gap between the straightedge and the floor exceed 3/16″.

Why 3/16″?

That’s the tolerance that most LVP manufacturers recommend.

It ensures that the planks are properly supported.

It distributes weight evenly.

It prevents those issues we talked about earlier.

So, how do you check for levelness?

Here are some tools you’ll need:

• A long straightedge: Ideally 10 feet long, but a shorter one will work.

• A level: A standard bubble level will do the trick.

• A measuring tape or ruler: To measure the gaps.

• A laser level (optional): For larger areas, a laser level can be a real time-saver.

Here’s the process:

1. Clean the floor: Remove any debris or obstructions.

2. Place the straightedge: Position the straightedge on the floor in various directions.

3. Check for gaps: Use your measuring tape or ruler to measure any gaps between the straightedge and the floor.

4. Use the level: Place the level on top of the straightedge to check for levelness.

5. Repeat: Repeat this process across the entire floor.

Now, let’s clarify something important:

Flat vs. Level.

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing.

• Level means that a surface is perfectly horizontal.

  Like the top of a table.

• Flat means that a surface has no bumps or dips.

  It can be sloped, but it’s still flat.

For LVP, flatness is more important than levelness.

You can install LVP on a slightly sloped floor, as long as it’s flat.

The key is to ensure that the planks are fully supported and don’t rock or flex.

Preparing for Installation

Okay, you’ve assessed your floor and discovered it’s not quite up to the 3/16″ standard.

Don’t panic!

There are ways to fix it.

The first step is to identify the problem areas.

Use your straightedge and level to pinpoint any dips, humps, or uneven spots.

Mark these areas with a pencil or tape.

Next, you’ll need to choose the right leveling compound.

There are two main types:

• Self-leveling underlayment (SLU): This is a pourable liquid that spreads out and levels itself.

  It’s ideal for larger areas with significant unevenness.

• Patching compound: This is a thicker material that you apply with a trowel.

  It’s best for small, localized imperfections.

Here are some tips for applying leveling compound effectively:

• Clean the subfloor: Remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

• Prime the subfloor: This helps the leveling compound adhere properly.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Pay close attention to mixing ratios and drying times.

• Use a gauge rake (for SLU): This helps spread the leveling compound evenly.

• Work in small sections (for patching compound): This prevents the compound from drying out before you can smooth it.

• Let it dry completely: Before installing the LVP, make sure the leveling compound is completely dry.

  This may take several hours or even days, depending on the product.

I always recommend doing a test patch before tackling the entire floor.

This will give you a feel for the material and allow you to adjust your technique if needed.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

Now for the big question:

Should you hire a professional to install your LVP, or can you tackle it yourself?

There are pros and cons to both options.

DIY Installation:

• Pros: Cost savings, sense of accomplishment.
• Cons: Time-consuming, potential for mistakes, requires tools and skills.

Professional Installation:

• Pros: Expertise, efficiency, guaranteed results.
• Cons: Higher cost, requires scheduling.

If you’re a seasoned DIYer with experience in flooring installation, you might be able to handle an LVP project yourself.

However, if you’re new to home improvement, or if your subfloor is particularly uneven.

I highly recommend hiring a professional.

Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

• Your skill level: Are you comfortable using power tools and following instructions?
• The size of the project: A small bathroom is much easier to tackle than an entire house.
• The condition of your subfloor: If your subfloor is severely uneven, it’s best to leave it to the pros.
• Your budget: Get quotes from several contractors and compare them to the cost of DIYing.

Speaking of costs, let’s talk numbers.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install LVP flooring is between \$3 and \$10 per square foot, including materials and labor.

DIYing can save you on labor costs, but you’ll need to factor in the cost of tools, materials, and potential mistakes.

Ultimately, the decision is yours.

Just be realistic about your abilities and the complexity of the project.

Maintenance and Longevity

You’ve installed your beautiful new LVP floor.

Congratulations!

But the job’s not done yet.

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your LVP looking its best for years to come.

And guess what?

A properly leveled floor plays a big role in maintenance.

Here’s why:

• Even wear: A flat floor distributes weight evenly, preventing excessive wear in certain areas.
• Reduced stress on seams: An uneven floor can put stress on the seams between planks, leading to gapping or cracking.
• Easier cleaning: A flat surface is easier to sweep, mop, and vacuum.

Here are some tips for maintaining your LVP floor:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly: This removes dirt and debris that can scratch the surface.
• Mop with a pH-neutral cleaner: Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
• Use mats at entrances: This helps trap dirt and moisture before they reach the LVP.
• Protect furniture legs: Use felt pads to prevent scratches and dents.
• Clean up spills immediately: LVP is water-resistant, but prolonged exposure to moisture can still cause damage.

Regular inspections can also help you catch problems early.

Look for signs of buckling, gapping, or uneven wear.

If you spot any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Conclusion

So, there you have it:

Everything you need to know about LVP and floor flatness.

We’ve covered the importance of that 3/16″ standard.

We’ve discussed how to prepare your subfloor.

We’ve weighed the pros and cons of DIY versus professional installation.

And we’ve touched on maintenance and longevity.

Remember, investing in proper subfloor preparation is an investment in the long-term beauty and durability of your LVP floor.

It’s the foundation upon which your flooring success is built.

Don’t cut corners.

Don’t skip steps.

And don’t underestimate the importance of flatness.

By following the tips and guidelines in this article.

You can ensure a stunning LVP floor that will last for years to come.

Now go forth and create the floor of your dreams!

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