When you’re planning a home renovation, flooring often becomes one of the focal points. For homeowners seeking both durability and style, luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP) is a fantastic option. But before you dive into selecting patterns and colors, it’s essential to budget for this investment wisely. At Mid America Flooring Solutions, we understand that budgeting is key to ensuring a smooth process. Here’s a guide to help you plan your luxury vinyl installation, so you can enjoy your beautiful new floors without any financial surprises.

1. Measure the Space

The first step in budgeting for new luxury vinyl flooring is measuring the space where you plan to install it. Measure the square footage of each room, hallway, or area where the vinyl plank flooring will be laid. Luxury vinyl flooring is typically priced by the square foot, so knowing your exact dimensions is crucial for getting accurate estimates.

Once you’ve gathered your measurements, it’s a good idea to add 10% to 15% extra for waste and cuts during installation. This ensures you’ll have enough flooring planks, even for odd corners and angles in your home.

2. Decide on the Type of Vinyl

Luxury vinyl plank flooring comes in various types and price points. Some planks are thicker and more durable, while others focus on aesthetics with wood-look finishes or unique patterns. It’s important to decide on the type of vinyl that best suits your needs. Do you need waterproof flooring for a bathroom or kitchen? Or are you looking for something durable to handle heavy foot traffic in living rooms or hallways? Each type of vinyl will come with different pricing.

At Mid America Flooring Solutions, our luxury vinyl flooring store offers a range of high-quality options. You’ll want to weigh your needs against your budget when selecting the right material.

3. Consider the Cost of Flooring Installation

Once you’ve chosen your vinyl plank flooring, the next step is to think about installation costs. Professional flooring installation can vary in price depending on the complexity of the project. If your subfloor is in good condition and doesn’t require any additional work, the installation will likely cost less. However, if the existing vinyl flooring or other previous materials need to be removed, this can increase labor costs.

Some homeowners opt for DIY installation to save on labor costs. While it’s entirely possible to install vinyl flooring in your home yourself, you’ll need the right tools, such as a utility knife to cut the flooring planks and other materials. But keep in mind that while DIY can save money, it may not yield the same long-term results as a professional luxury vinyl installation.

4. Factor in Subfloor Preparation

Subfloor preparation is an important aspect of any flooring project and should be part of your budget. The subfloor beneath your vinyl planks needs to be clean, dry, and level before installation begins. If the subfloor requires any leveling or repairs, this will add to your overall budget. Some homes may have uneven surfaces that require more extensive prep work, which can drive up the cost.

If your home already has existing vinyl flooring, it may be possible to install luxury vinyl planks directly on top, provided the subfloor is in good condition. This can save you both time and money, as you won’t need to budget for the removal of old materials.

5. Plan for Additional Materials

While the luxury vinyl planks themselves will account for a significant portion of your budget, don’t forget to include other materials that will be needed for the installation. For example, underlayment is often required to provide extra cushioning and moisture protection. You’ll also need adhesives, trim, or transition pieces depending on the type of vinyl you choose.

Be sure to ask your flooring store about all necessary materials so you can include them in your budget. Here at Mid America Flooring Solutions, we help our customers make sure they have all the materials needed to ensure a seamless installation.

6. Get Quotes from a Trusted Flooring Store

One of the best ways to accurately budget for luxury vinyl plank flooring is to get detailed quotes from a trusted flooring store. At Mid America Flooring Solutions, we offer free consultations to help you understand the total cost of your project, from materials to installation.

When getting quotes, be sure to ask about all potential costs, including delivery fees, taxes, and additional labor. A transparent estimate will help you avoid any unexpected expenses later on.

7. Account for Future Maintenance

Luxury vinyl flooring is known for being low-maintenance, but it’s still a good idea to plan for any potential maintenance costs down the line. While regular cleaning can keep your floors looking great, accidents happen, and sometimes individual planks may need to be replaced.

Luxury vinyl is a durable flooring option, but having a little extra in your budget for potential repairs or replacement planks can give you peace of mind.

8. Prepare for Unexpected Costs

Even with the best planning, sometimes things don’t go as expected. Maybe your subfloor needs more preparation than anticipated, or perhaps you find that your utility knife just isn’t cutting through the thicker planks as smoothly as you’d hoped. It’s always wise to include a contingency fund in your budget to cover any surprises. A good rule of thumb is to set aside about 10% of your total project cost for unexpected expenses.

9. Look for Financing Options

If your dream floors are a little out of reach with your current budget, consider financing options. Many flooring stores, including Mid America Flooring Solutions, offer financing plans to help you spread out the cost of luxury vinyl installation. This can be a great option for homeowners who want to invest in high-quality flooring without straining their budget all at once.

By carefully considering the size of your project, the type of vinyl you want, and the cost of installation, you can effectively budget for new luxury vinyl plank flooring. Whether you choose to install vinyl flooring in your home yourself or opt for professional installation, planning ahead will help ensure your renovation project is a success. At Mid America Flooring Solutions, we’re here to guide you through the process and make sure you get the best value for your investment in luxury vinyl flooring.