Probably one of the most critical decisions you’ll have to make in the process of installing vinyl plank flooring is choosing the direction to install the planks. Direction can make a huge difference in the aesthetic appeal of a space, make a room appear larger or smaller, and influence the overall flow. Whether you are a new homeowner or just want to upgrade your flooring, knowing the best direction to install is key to the aesthetic and functionality you want to achieve.
Factors to Consider Before Deciding the Direction
Before the planks are installed, there are some considerations that need to be put in place to ensure your floor flows well with the room and maximizes its use.
Room Size and Shape
The orientation of the planks used can significantly affect the dimensions of your room. For instance, a narrow room can appear even more cramped if planks are laid horizontally while installation of vertical planks can create the perception of having a larger and more open space.
Natural Light Sources
Rooms that get full lighting, such as those with large windows or skylights should take into consideration the direction of light flow. Positioning the planks parallel to the direction of light will enable it to be shinier and more inviting.
Room Layout and Flow
The direction chosen should also complement the room’s configuration. For example, in hallways, planks are often laid lengthwise to draw attention to the area’s natural flow. In living rooms, horizontal or diagonal patterns may be preferred to create an even more visually balanced atmosphere.
Plank Dimensions
Larger boards can influence the direction, as the proportions of these boards can look mismatched in certain orientations. Larger rooms can accommodate diagonal or horizontal layouts with larger boards and smaller spaces often look best on vertical installations with thinner boards.
The Common Installation Directions for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Horizontal Installation
Horizontal installation is where planks are laid across the room parallel to the shorter walls. This is particularly useful for smaller rooms since it can make the area visually expand, giving the appearance of a larger space. It is also good to use if you want to soften the appearance of a narrow or long room.
Advantages of Horizontal Installation:
- Expands confined areas.
- Adds a relaxed and welcoming feel.
- It works great in smaller areas like bathrooms or bedrooms.
Vertical Installation
In a vertical installation, the planks are placed along the longest walls of the room, from one end to the other. This stretches the length of the room and gives a sense of looking in the direction of the furthest point within the space.
Advantages of Vertical Installation:
- Creates a sense of added height, especially for rooms with high ceilings.
- Suitable for narrow or long spaces.
- It works well in large spaces like living rooms or open-concept designs.
Diagonal Installation
This is a very bold design statement and will involve cutting the vinyl planks at an angle to the walls, typically at 45 degrees. This will take a little longer to accomplish and requires some skill, but it creates an exceptionally dynamic and interesting space.
Advantages of Diagonal Installation:
- It has a very attractive appearance.
- Breaking up uniformity can make the room appear more spacious.
- Perfect for open areas or irregularly shaped rooms.
Planks Alignment
How to Align Planks with Light
Maximizing natural light can make any room feel larger and more inviting. For spaces with plenty of windows, the direction of the planks should be chosen carefully to align with the flow of natural light.
- Parallel to the light: Parallel planked installations make a great linear flow possible, as it allows reflection of light throughout the room and can even brighten up the room further.
- Perpendicular to the light: The planks can be installed perpendicular to the light to effectively reduce glare while capitalizing on the ambient light present in the room.
Aligning Planks with the Longest Wall
An obvious standard operating procedure of the vinyl plank installation method includes ensuring to position planks parallel to the longest wall within a room. This setup is also aesthetically extended to elongate the room’s proportions, creating a balanced and stable appearance.
This works because the planks along the longest wall give a flow and symmetry to make the room look much more cohesive. It works very well in open-concept spaces where continuity is very essential.
Effects of Plank Direction on Maintenance and Cleanliness
The orientation of your vinyl plank flooring can also affect your cleaning and maintenance routine. Horizontal and vertical planks tend to collect dust, dirt, and debris in their seams, so it’s crucial to vacuum frequently. Diagonal planks, though beautiful, may require more attention in the cleaning process due to their pattern complexity.
Should You Follow the Existing Subfloor Direction?
In certain conditions, the direction of the subfloor may influence the pattern in which the vinyl planks would lay. Wooden-made subfloors may benefit by laying in the wood direction for further stability but most people ignore the grain patterns of subfloors to beautify a space.
Special Considerations for Large Open Spaces
In open areas like sitting rooms or kitchens, the orientation of the planks can be made to create visual zones. Placing planks in a diagonal pattern can subdivide the space and help make it more intimate while aligning them with the longest wall will highlight how spacious the room is.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Deciding on Plank Direction
- Misjudging The Proportions of Space: The wrong orientation of your space may give you an impression of confinement or it is not balanced.
- Not Considering Light Flow: Considering the flow of natural light, a room can become dim or too bright.
- Neglecting The Furniture Layout: The direction of your planks should complement the furniture arrangement to avoid an awkward look.
How to Make the Final Decision
The decision regarding direction will depend upon the needs of the room and your personal style preferences. It is wise to position a few planks in different directions so you can see how each orientation will affect the room before you make your final decision.
Enhancing Your Space with Vinyl Flooring in Your Area
To make a good impression with your flooring installation, find out how your choice measures up to the most in-demand vinyl flooring options around your area. For example:
- If you are installing vinyl flooring in charlotte NC, then horizontal installation can make your room look wider, which is excellent for smaller homes or apartments.
- In areas like Greensboro, vertical installation can elongate the look of your home, making it ideal for rooms with high ceilings.
- The beauty of horizontal vinyl planks in channeling natural light into your space might appeal to some homeowners in Salisbury and Winston-Salem, NC.
Choose the right direction for your vinyl flooring project in Charlotte or Greensboro, NC, and your home will be classy, cozy, and perfectly fluid.
Conclusion
Choosing the right direction for your vinyl plank flooring will make all the difference in how a room feels and appears. You can install them either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, making sure to take into consideration the layout of the room, light flow, and functionality to achieve the desired effect. With some planning, you can achieve the best floor for your room that works with your space and lifestyle.
FAQs
In what direction should vinyl plank flooring be installed in a small room?
In small rooms, it is advisable to install the vinyl planks horizontally. This direction visually expands the space and makes it feel larger.
Is it advisable to install vinyl plank flooring diagonal?
Yes, diagonal installation is a widely preferred choice for people who would like to have an eye-catching and unique look. It can make the room seem more dynamic and spacious in open-concept settings. However, it does require much more planning, time, and materials because of the angled cuts needed.
Should the vinyl planks run parallel or perpendicular to the light source?
For maximum utilization of natural light, planks are usually installed parallel to the light source. This maximizes the effect of light on the room and illuminates the flooring, making it look brighter and more expansive.
How does the direction of vinyl planks affect the look of my room?
The direction of your vinyl planks can affect the overall feel of your room. Horizontal planks widen the space, vertical planks make it seem like your room has height, and diagonal planks create this dynamic, unique feel that you would want to create when designing a room.
It is possible to install vinyl plank flooring in a long hallway?
For a long hallway, it is usually best to run the planks lengthwise along the hall to emphasize the natural flow of the hallway and create a look that is more pleasing and continuous.
Does the direction of vinyl plank flooring affect maintenance?
Yes, the orientation of the flooring can significantly affect the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Horizontal and vertical planks have a tendency to collect dust along their seams, necessitating frequent cleaning, whereas diagonal planks may demand additional care owing to their complex cuts.
How do I know if I should align my vinyl planks with the subfloor?
It is not essential to align vinyl planks with the orientation of the subfloor; however, doing so can enhance structural stability. When the subfloor is composed of wood, aligning the planks with the grain of the wood can contribute to improved stability, although this decision ultimately rests on personal preference regarding aesthetics and functionality.