10 Beginner Vinyl Flooring Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

Introduction

Vinyl plank flooring has surged in popularity among DIYers due to its durability, ease of installation, and wide range of styles—making it a top choice for kitchens, living rooms, and even basements.

However, even a seemingly simple click-lock installation can go awry if key steps are overlooked.

Proper installation is crucial not only for a flawless finish but also for the long-term performance of your floor. Skipping critical prep work or misjudging layout details can lead to buckling, gaps, or premature wear. Follow along as we explore the top 10 pitfalls and exactly how to avoid them.

1. Not Sinking Fasteners

Many beginners believe that floating vinyl planks require no fasteners at all. However, when transitioning over areas that once held nail-down flooring, any protruding nails or staples can “telegraph” through the new surface, creating bumps and wear points.

How to Avoid:

• Thoroughly inspect old nail-down sections and use a nail set to sink any fasteners below the subfloor surface.

• Remove any debris and fill holes with a floor-leveling compound before laying vinyl planks.

2. Ignoring Imperfections in the Subfloor

A common mistake is assuming that vinyl will mask an uneven surface. In reality, any high or low spots will telegraph through, leading to visible ridges or indentations over time.

How to Avoid:

• Move furniture and remove old flooring down to the bare subfloor.

• Use a floor scraper to eliminate adhesive residues, then sand or grind high spots and fill low areas with self-leveling underlayment.

3. Forgetting to Level Floors

Even if there are no nails or debris, a floor that isn’t perfectly level can cause planks to flex under load, resulting in creaks or gaps.

How to Avoid:

• Place a long straightedge or spirit level across multiple points in the room.

• Mark areas varying more than 1/8" over 10 feet and apply a leveling compound until the entire floor meets manufacturer tolerance.

4. Not Removing Baseboards and Trim

Attempting to install vinyl planks around existing trim leads to uneven edges and often forces gaps that become visible over time.

How to Avoid:

• Carefully remove baseboards and any quarter-round molding before installation.

• Reinstall or replace trim after laying the final row, ensuring clean, hidden expansion gaps.

5. Skipping the Underlayment

Underlayment provides moisture protection, sound dampening, and added comfort underfoot. Skipping it can lead to adhesive failure, persistent squeaks, and loss of warranty coverage.

How to Avoid:

• Choose the underlayment recommended by your vinyl plank manufacturer (foam, cork, or specialized moisture barrier).

• Roll it out smoothly, sealing seams with tape, and trim excess before locking planks on top.

6. Failing to Measure Correctly and Plan the Layout

Gross miscalculations in square footage or poor layout planning can leave you short on material or with visually unbalanced end rows.

How to Avoid:

• Sketch the room on graph paper or use a digital planner to map plank directions, starting from the most visible wall.

• Calculate material with at least 10% extra for waste and future repairs.

7. Not Leaving an Expansion Gap

Vinyl flooring expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Failing to leave a ¼" gap around walls and fixed objects can cause planks to buckle or warp.

How to Avoid:

• Insert spacers between the first row of planks and the wall, and maintain this gap around the entire perimeter.

• Cover the gap later with baseboards or transition molding.

8. Using the Wrong Underlayment

Not all underlayments are suitable for every subfloor or vinyl product. Using an incompatible material can void warranties and compromise floor performance.

How to Avoid:

• Verify moisture levels with a moisture meter—choose a moisture barrier underlayment for concrete slabs.

• Confirm compatibility in the product data sheet before purchase.

9. Not Alternating Plank Designs

Many vinyl planks come in randomized patterns. Installing identical-looking planks side-by-side can create unnatural repetition and distract from the overall aesthetic.

How to Avoid:

• Mix planks from multiple boxes during installation.

• Alternate long and short pieces and vary plank designs every few rows for a natural look.

10. Skipping Undercutting Door Trim

Trying to scribe planks around door jambs instead of undercutting leaves unsightly gaps and uneven transitions.

How to Avoid:

• Use an undercut saw or multi-tool to trim the bottom of door casings, allowing planks to slide neatly underneath.

• Test-fit planks before locking them into place to ensure a snug, gap-free finish.

Conclusion

Installing vinyl plank flooring is a great way to give your space a fresh, modern look without the high cost of traditional hardwood floors. By avoiding these common beginner mistakes, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will last for years to come. Proper preparation, attention to detail, and patience are the keys to a successful installation.

Good luck with your flooring project!