Expert Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation in Lansing, MI
- Christopher
- May 24
- 3 min read
Christopher’s Handyman Service recently completed a luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring installation in a mid-century ranch home near East Lansing, and the results showcase why this durable, low-maintenance material is an ideal choice for central Michigan households.
Project Background
The homeowners wanted to replace aging, scratched hardwood in their living room, hallway and kitchen with waterproof vinyl plank flooring that mimicked the look of wide-plank oak. They needed a material that would withstand pets, spills and heavy foot traffic, while giving the home an updated, cohesive flow.
Subfloor Inspection & Preparation
Before installation, Christopher performed a thorough subfloor inspection to identify uneven spots or moisture risks.
low areas were brought level with a self-leveling compound
high spots were sanded down for a perfectly flat surface
a 6-mil polyethylene moisture barrier was laid in the kitchen, where concrete slab humidity is a concern
all baseboards, thresholds and existing trim were carefully removed and labeled for reinstallation
Layout Planning
Using high-resolution photos and precise room measurements, Christopher mapped out a staggered plank pattern to avoid repetitive seams and ensure minimal waste. Installation began along the longest, straightest wall in the living room to establish a clean sight line, then flowed seamlessly into the adjoining hallway and into the kitchen bay.
Installation Steps
Underlayment: A premium acoustic underlayment cushion was rolled out across all rooms, offering sound dampening and thermal insulation.
Plank Cutting & Fitting: Each 7-inch-wide plank was cut with a fine-tooth blade to prevent chipping. End joints were spaced at least 6 inches apart, and perimeter gaps were left at recommended installation width to allow for expansion.
Locking & Snapping: The floating floor system clicked into place plank by plank; where walls or cabinets required precision fits, Christopher used a pull bar and tapping block to achieve tight, gap-free seams.
Transitions & Thresholds: T-molding strips were installed at room transitions—living room to hallway, hallway to kitchen—to allow expansion movement and create a polished look.
Trim & Baseboard Reinstallation: Once planks were fully laid, baseboards and shoe molding were reinstalled over the expansion gaps, then caulked and painted to match existing trim.
Cleanup & Quality Check
Dust and debris were removed with a HEPA-filtered vacuum. Christopher inspected every seam, tested for floor “give” at high-traffic areas and checked that door clearances met diagonal plank height. The homeowners walked each room with him to confirm they were happy with plank orientation, grout-like beveled edges and overall aesthetic.
Benefits Realized
Water Resistance: The waterproof core handles kitchen spills and pet accidents without warping.
Durability: Scratch- and dent-resistant wear layers protect against furniture movement and daily wear.
Comfort & Acoustics: The licensed underlayment minimizes footfall noise and feels warmer underfoot than tile.
Low Maintenance: Simple sweeping and occasional damp mopping keep the floors looking like new.
Instant Transformation: In just two days, the entire main level received a fresh, modern look that ties open-concept living spaces together.
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