Key Preparations Before Installation
Substrate Preparation: The subfloor must be flat, dry, clean, and free of dust, oil, or loose materials. Unevenness can lead to squeaking, warping, or poor adhesive adhesion.
Environmental Adaptation: Newly unpacked LVT flooring should be placed in the room for 24 hours to acclimate to temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of future deformation.
Self-Leveling Compound Drying Confirmation: If using self-leveling compound, ensure it is completely dry. A 3mm thickness typically requires 3 days. This can be tested using a thin-film sealing method: No water droplets should appear after 24 hours of sealing with the compound.
Installation Method Selection and Tips
Click-lock (Floating Installation): No glue required, direct splicing, suitable for DIY projects. Note that an 8-10mm expansion joint should be left for the first row, which will be covered with baseboards later.
Adhesive-ply: Suitable for high-traffic areas. Apply the adhesive evenly and allow it to dry until slightly tacky before laying the tiles to prevent edges from lifting.
Directional Planning: Lay the tiles along the longest side of the room or in the direction of the light source to visually expand the space.
