Installation & Subfloor Essentials When shopping Discount Flooring
- pncmorrissey
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
Installation & Subfloor Essentials
What You Need to Know Before Laying Vinyl, Laminate, or Engineered Wood
Flooring is only as good as the surface beneath it. Whether you're a DIY warrior or hiring a pro, understanding your subfloor and installation basics can mean the difference between a flawless finish and a future headache.
At Discount Flooring at Liquidation Land, we don’t just sell you great deals; we help by guiding you with the correct information so you can install them the right way. Here’s what every homeowner should know before installing vinyl, laminate, or engineered wood flooring.
1. Subfloor Basics: What’s Under There Matters
Before you even think about your top layer, you need to know what’s beneath. Your subfloor provides the foundation for your flooring, and not all materials play nicely together.
🔍 Common Subfloor Types:
Plywood/OSB: Standard in most homes. Works well with almost any floating or glue-down floor.
Concrete: Needs to be level and dry. Often requires a vapor barrier.
Existing Tile/Vinyl: In some cases, LVP or laminate can go right over it, if it’s smooth and secure.
Pro Tip: Always check for moisture or uneven spots before starting. A bad subfloor can ruin even the best floors.
2. Matching Subfloors to Flooring Types
Each flooring material has different needs when it comes to subfloor prep.
✅ Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP):
Works over plywood, concrete, or existing tile
Requires a level surface
Waterproof versions ideal for basements or bathrooms
Underlayment often built-in, but check specs
✅ Laminate Flooring:
Not waterproof, avoid in high-moisture areas unless specified
Needs foam underlayment
Subfloor must be flat and dry
✅ Engineered Wood:
More forgiving than solid hardwood
Can float, glue, or staple depending on subfloor
May require moisture barriers on concrete
3. DIY vs. Pro Installation: What to Consider
Installing your own flooring can save money, but it's not always simple.
💡 Good DIY Candidates:
Handy homeowners
Flat, small rooms like bedrooms
Click-lock LVP or laminate
🛠️ Best Left to the Pros:
Large or complex layouts
Concrete subfloors needing prep
Engineered wood with glue-down
🛒 Need materials and advice? Our staff helps DIYers and connects pros to the right product every day. Visit us now for expert guidance and unbeatable prices.
4. Common Installation Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Even confident DIYers can fall into traps. Here are the most frequent missteps we see, and how to steer clear.
❌ Skipping Floor Acclimation
Fix: Let planks sit in the room for 48–72 hours before installing.
❌ No Expansion Gaps
Fix: Always leave a 1/4" gap around walls to allow for natural movement.
❌ Uneven Subfloor
Fix: Use a long level or straightedge to spot high/low points. Self-leveling compound may be needed.
❌ Ignoring Moisture Barriers
Fix: For concrete or below-grade installs, always use a vapor barrier under LVP or laminate.
❌ Not Staggering Joints
Fix: Avoid repeating seams, stagger boards at least 6 inches apart for stability and visual appeal.
5. Underlayment: Do You Need It?
Not all flooring requires a separate underlayment, but many benefit from it.
Final Thoughts: The Floor You Want Starts with What’s Beneath
Installing flooring isn't just about how it looks; it's about how it functions long term. Whether you're laying vinyl in your rental, updating your own living space, or flipping a property, understanding your subfloor and installation requirements ensures the job gets done right.
And with prices up to 70% off retail, you can afford to upgrade like a pro.
🧰 Don’t guess, get expert advice, ready-to-go inventory, and support from people who know floors inside and out. Shop Discount Flooring at Liquidation Land today.
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