Loose-lay vinyl has a heavy fiberglass backing that allows the sheet to lay flat on the floor without glue. You can purchase the flooring at most home centers and flooring stores. Standard sheet vinyl is not heavy enough to be installed in this fashion—it will slip and curl over time. To prevent loose-lay vinyl from curling up in high traffic areas, secure the material with double-sided tape at the doorways. Before installing this or any floor covering, make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, and smooth. The ease of this flooring option makes it a popular choice among homeowners. We’ve got the tips and tricks you should know if you’re planning to use loose-lay vinyl in your home. Like other forms of vinyl, the material is resilient—it springs back when you push on it and conforms to the surface on which you install it. If there are bumps of glue, popped-up nails, or uneven bits of concrete on the subfloor, the vinyl will flow over the spot and create a slightly elevated area. As you walk on the spot, you’ll eventually wear through the elevated area. To ensure a smooth application, sand and clean the subfloor so there are no imperfections that will show through the vinyl.
