The Basics: Of all the flooring types, carpet tile may be the most straight forward to install yourself. The sizing of carpet tiles helps to make the project more manageable. Carpet tile comes in different sizes, 12×12, 24×24 and plank options are all available depending on your project and preferences. Traditionally, carpet tiles were installed by being glued down directly to the subfloor, but as more home owners have opted for carpet tile over traditional broadloom, more installation options have become available the most popular being the use of carpet tabs. These adhesive tabs work by connecting carpet tiles together at the corners and allow for easy removal for repairs or color changes. 

How to Install: In additional to the easy to use carpet tabs for adhesion, carpet tiles are pretty easy to cut to fit as well. Depending on the thickness of the tiles you selected, they can be cut with scissors, to easily with a utility knife and a straight edge. Make sure to measure your area correctly, take into consideration the size of your installation area, the sizing of the carpet tiles themselves, and the pattern repeat. Understanding how all of these aspect play into the layout and direction of your flooring is essential for a proper installation.  

The Basics: Peel and stick vinyl tiles are another great DIY option for beginners. Peel and stick makes for a quick and simple installation and can be utilized in any room of your home. Recently, flooring vendors have been offering more color and pattern options, helping you find the best product for your project. Unlike traditional sheet vinyl that comes in 6 foot or 12 foot wide rolls, peel and stick vinyl comes in more manageable sizes and are installed directly to the subfloor by peeling the backing off the tile to expose the adhesive on the product and then aligned, and put down on the floor.

How To Install: It is important to note that for best result, you want to ensure your subfloor is level and clean. Peel and stick vinyl is on the thinner size and do not hide imperfections well. For the best performance and longevity of your flooring, starting with a level subfloor is your best bet. It is recommended that if you are utilizing square tiles, it is best to start from the middle of the room and if you are using planks, you should start from the corner of the room. Take time to plan your layout and measure your material. Peel and stick sheet vinyl is easily cut with a straight edge, making the overall installation process quick and easy. 

The Basics: Vinyl plank has grown in popularity over the last few years. More and more home owners are opting for vinyl plank over other traditional materials. Chosen for it’s ease of maintenance and classic wood look, and water proof aspect, vinyl plank is a great option for any home. Vinyl plank takes a little more precision and patience to install, so it is critical that you take your time research your specific flooring specification, environment required for proper install, and all warranty specifications before you begin your install. This product comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so it easy to find exactly what you are looking for. 

How to Install: As mentioned earlier, vinyl plank has more installation requirement than they other products we have discussed. Vinyl plank is a floating floor and expands and contracts with changes in temperature. Due to this, your flooring will require an expansion gap around the boarding of your installation area. Typically, expansion gap must be at least ¼ inch, but check the guidelines for your specific flooring to confirm. Most vinyl plank now comes with attached backing that aides in the reduction of moisture exposure and sound reduction as well. Depending on your subfloor, additional plastic moisture barrier may be required. Always follow the instruction guidelines for your product to protect your warranty coverage. 

The Basics: Sheet vinyl is a more traditional flooring option that has been around for years. Used heavily in bathrooms and kitchens many years ago, it is still a great, low-cost water proof option for many home owners. Thought not as easy to install as peel and stick sheet vinyl, it is still manageable for most DIYers. Typically it comes in 6 foot or 12 foot wide rolls and is available in an endless amount of colors, patters and textures, making it easy for you to find what fits best for your project. 

How to Install: Sheet vinyl is installed by adhering it directly to your subfloor (it can also be installed over one layer of existing sheet vinyl. Check your installation guidelines for specifics). Like its peel and stick counterpart, the most important step in sheet vinyl installation is to start with an even and clear subfloor. Sheet vinyl is a thinner material and does not do well to cover blemishes or imperfection. Having an even starting point, will help you to get the best end result. Measure your room well and plan the direction of your installation. From here you can make you cuts, apply your glued and roll our your flooring. Taking time to careful cut around obstacles and take time to research how to seem your vinyl properly if needed. All of these steps will help you achieve the best result from your product.