Vinyl plank flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and the wide range of styles it offers. However, circumstances may arise where you need to remove and reinstall your vinyl plank flooring. Whether you're renovating a room, addressing water damage, or simply moving to a new home, you might wonder if this type of flooring can be taken up and reinstalled without compromising its integrity. This blog explores whether vinyl plank flooring can be removed and reinstalled, the factors that affect this process, and best practices to ensure a successful outcome.
Understanding Vinyl Plank Flooring
Before diving into the removal and reinstallation process, it’s important to understand the basics of vinyl plank flooring. This type of flooring is designed to mimic the appearance of natural wood, stone, or tile but offers the benefits of easy maintenance, water resistance, and comfort underfoot. There are two primary types of vinyl plank flooring: click-lock (or floating) and glue-down. The type of vinyl plank you have will significantly influence whether it can be removed and reinstalled.
Can Vinyl Plank Flooring Be Removed?
The short answer is yes, vinyl plank flooring can generally be removed. However, the ease of removal and the condition of the planks post-removal depend largely on the type of installation.
Floating Vinyl Plank Flooring
Floating vinyl plank flooring, also known as click-lock, is designed to be installed without any adhesive. The planks click together and rest atop the subfloor, making them easier to remove than glue-down options. To remove floating vinyl planks, you can typically start at one edge of the room, lifting the planks carefully to avoid damage.
Since these planks are not glued down, they are more likely to remain intact during removal, allowing for a higher chance of successful reinstallation.
Glue-Down Vinyl Plank Flooring
Glue-down vinyl plank flooring, as the name suggests, is adhered directly to the subfloor with a strong adhesive. Removing this type of flooring is more challenging because the glue often makes the planks difficult to lift without damage. Even with careful effort, the adhesive may cause some planks to crack, bend, or lose their shape, making them unsuitable for reinstallation.
For glue-down vinyl plank flooring, removal is possible but typically more labor-intensive and carries a higher risk of damaging the planks, reducing the likelihood of a successful reinstallation.
Reinstalling Vinyl Plank Flooring
Once the vinyl planks are removed, the next question is whether they can be reinstalled. Here’s what you need to know about reinstalling both types of vinyl plank flooring.
Reinstalling Floating Vinyl Plank Flooring
Reinstalling floating vinyl plank flooring is generally straightforward if the planks were removed without significant damage. Before reinstallation, inspect each plank for any cracks, warping, or wear. If the planks are in good condition, you can reinstall them by following the same click-lock method used during the initial installation.
Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before reinstallation to prevent any issues with the flooring. If some planks were damaged during removal, you might need to replace them with new planks of the same style and size.
Reinstalling Glue-Down Vinyl Plank Flooring
Reinstalling glue-down vinyl plank flooring is more complex. If the planks were removed without damage, they can be reinstalled using a new layer of adhesive. However, it’s essential to remove any old adhesive residue from both the subfloor and the planks to ensure a secure bond during reinstallation.
In many cases, damaged planks may need to be replaced, which can be challenging if the flooring style is discontinued or hard to match. Reinstalling glue-down planks is possible but often requires more effort and may not always be cost-effective compared to installing new flooring.
Factors to Consider When Removing and Reinstalling Vinyl Plank Flooring
Several factors can influence the success of removing and reinstalling vinyl plank flooring. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the process.
Age and Condition of the Flooring
The age and condition of your vinyl plank flooring play a significant role in whether it can be successfully removed and reinstalled. Older flooring that has seen significant wear may not withstand removal without damage. Similarly, flooring that has been exposed to excessive moisture or temperature fluctuations may be more prone to warping or cracking.
Quality of the Original Installation
The quality of the original installation also impacts the likelihood of successful reinstallation. If the flooring was installed correctly, with a level subfloor and appropriate spacing between planks, the chances of reinstallation success are higher. Poorly installed flooring is more likely to be damaged during removal, reducing the possibility of reinstallation.
Availability of Replacement Planks
Even with careful removal, some planks may be damaged and need replacement. If your flooring is still in production and readily available, replacing damaged planks is relatively simple. However, if the flooring is discontinued, finding matching planks can be difficult, making reinstallation challenging.
Conclusion: Can You Remove and Reinstall Vinyl Plank Flooring?
In conclusion, vinyl plank flooring can be removed and reinstalled, but the success of this process depends on various factors, including the type of installation, the condition of the flooring, and the quality of the original installation. Floating vinyl plank flooring is generally easier to remove and reinstall compared to glue-down options, which may suffer more damage during removal.
If you’re considering removing and reinstalling your vinyl plank flooring, or if you need professional advice on the best approach, visit Alliance Floor Source or stop by our store in Concord, ON. Our experts can help you evaluate your flooring and provide the guidance you need to achieve the best results.
