Measure Kitchen Floor for Vinyl in 5 Simple Steps
Installing new vinyl plank flooring can completely transform the look of your kitchen. But before you start clicking those planks together, it's crucial to accurately measure your kitchen floor area and dimensions.
Getting precise measurements ensures you purchase the correct amount of vinyl flooring materials. It also helps create a flawless floor layout without gaps or uneven planks.
Measure Total Square Footage
The first step is calculating the total square footage of your kitchen floor. This requires measuring the length and width and multiplying them together.
Tools Needed
To measure square footage, you'll need:
- Tape measure
- Laser measure for accuracy
- Stud finder to locate joists
- Marking chalk or painter's tape to indicate measurements
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to measure your kitchen floor's square footage:
- Clear the floor area of any furniture or obstructions.
- Working in feet, measure the length and width of the floor from opposite sides of the room.
- Multiply the length by the width to calculate the total square footage.
Tips
For rooms with alcoves, bump-outs, or an irregular shape:
- Take separate measurements of each section.
- Add all measurements together for the total.
- Sketch a detailed floor plan noting all dimensions.
When ordering materials, add 5-10% extra square footage to account for intricate floor plans and inevitable cuts.
Determine Floor Dimensions
In addition to total area, you also need to measure the floor perimeter in linear feet. This ensures you order enough vinyl planks to go around the entire room.
Tools
Use these tools to measure linear floor dimensions:
- 25 foot metal tape measure
- Laser measure for accuracy
- Stud finder
Steps
Follow these steps to measure the floor perimeter:
- Mark a starting point like a wall corner.
- Working clockwise, carefully measure and mark the length of each wall.
- Note any irregular shapes or sections.
Record Measurements
Be sure to record:
- The linear feet of the entire floor perimeter.
- Separate measurements of any irregular areas.
Prep the Subfloor
Prepping the subfloor is crucial for proper vinyl plank installation. Follow these subfloor prep steps:
Inspect Subfloor
Check for any damaged or uneven areas in the plywood or concrete subfloor. Low spots can cause planks to buckle.
Prep Steps
- Clean subfloor thoroughly.
- Use floor leveler compound to fill any low spots.
- Remove existing baseboards and undercut door jambs.
Result
Proper subfloor prep leaves a flat, smooth, and stable surface for the vinyl planks to adhere to.
Order Materials
With careful floor measurements, you can now determine how much vinyl plank flooring to purchase.
Measurements Needed
- Total square footage of floor space.
- Linear feet of floor perimeter.
Tips
- Add 5-10% to square footage for intricate layouts.
- Round up square footage to the next full box of planks.
Install Your Vinyl Flooring
Once materials arrive, it's time for the fun part - installing your brand new vinyl plank flooring! Follow these steps:
- Acclimate planks to room temperature for 48 hours.
- Lay planks in a staggered bricklay pattern.
- Click planks together on the ends and sides.
- Use spacers against walls and cut final row to fit.
Finish up by reinstalling trim pieces and transitions. Then stand back and admire your beautiful new vinyl kitchen floor!
Getting accurate measurements is crucial before installing vinyl plank flooring. Follow these simple steps:
- Measure total square footage.
- Determine perimeter dimensions.
- Prep the subfloor properly.
- Order the right amount of materials.
Taking the time to precisely measure your kitchen floor ensures your vinyl plank project goes smoothly from start to finish.