Are you planning to replace vinyl flooring in Singapore? It can change your home, making it more contemporary. In Singapore, where humidity and fashion hold the key, vinyl flooring is a consistently most liked choice because of its durability and affordability. The following guide will show you how to replace vinyl flooring properly in Singapore.
All the way through preparation to the actual installation, we will discuss everything you need to know to have a smooth project. Also, PS Home Maintenance Singapore is an expert in flooring installation, vinyl flooring, and carpentry services in Singapore.
Why Replace Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is durable, but it wears out over time. Discoloration, scratching, or peeling may occur due to high foot traffic, sun exposure, or spillages. In Singapore, homes such as HDB flats and condominiums might be exposed to high humidity, which causes older vinyl floors to warp. Replacing vinyl flooring also gives you the opportunity to change up your space’s style to fit contemporary trends, such as wood-look luxury vinyl planks.
Installing a new floor will increase the resale value of your home, especially in the competitive property market in Singapore. This is a good investment since buyers are fond of low-maintenance but stylish flooring.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Vinyl Flooring
1. Assess Your Current Flooring
Make sure that you examine your current floor condition before proceeding. Be on the lookout for any damage, such as cracks, warping, or loose tiles. HDB flats in Singapore can be much older and contain old and outdated vinyl sheets that require full removal.
Make a decision on whether you are overlaying or pulling off the old layer of vinyl. Overlaying is quicker but will fail where the subfloor is not even. When installing new vinyl, removing the old flooring will provide an even finish.
2. Gather Tools and Materials
To replace vinyl flooring, you will require special tools. The simple tools are a utility knife, a floor scraper, a measuring tape, a level, and vinyl adhesive. Consider using durable, high-grade vinyl materials that would withstand the Singapore weather. The most affordable option is luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) or planks (LVP) at a price of $3.50 to $8.00 per square foot in Singapore, depending on brand and pattern.
Kitchens or bathrooms would need consideration of water-resistant material, since humidity levels are high. Eco-friendly and long-lasting options can be found with local suppliers such as Floorrich or MCL Flooring.
3. Prepare the Area
Remove furniture and appliances from the room. This may imply relocation of items to a different room or storage in smaller Singapore homes. Cover baseboards using painter’s tape. When disposing of old vinyl floors, you can cut smaller strips of sheet vinyl so it is easier to work with.
For tile or planks, use a floor scraper. Examine the subfloor to see whether it is damaged or uneven. You might require cement screeding to even out the floor in new HDB BTO flats. This is essential when a clean professional finish is required.
4. Remove Old Vinyl Flooring
It takes patience to remove vinyl flooring. In the case of sheet vinyl, a utility knife can be used to score it, and the vinyl can then be ripped off in sections. Prying of vinyl tiles or planks can be done with a scraper. Be careful not to damage the subfloor.
In Singapore, removal and installation have a rate that averages between $2.00 and $4.00 per square foot. When you are doing it yourself, dispose of old flooring responsibly. Enquire with your town council regarding the disposal of waste, as in Singapore, there are strict regulations.
5. Prepare the Subfloor
The secret to a long-lasting vinyl floor is a flat subfloor. Repair cracks or dents by placing a leveling compound. Subfloors are subject to humidity, so make sure it is dry. Sand down high spots and clean thoroughly to remove dust. A smooth subfloor prevents bumps or peeling in your new vinyl floor.
6. Measure and Cut New Vinyl
Always measure your room properly to prevent wastage. Add another 10 percent for cuts and corners, which are common in the compact Singapore layouts. The luxury vinyl planks can be cut more easily compared to the sheets and provide flexibility to include detailed designs. Use a straightedge and utility knife to cut accurately. Before applying adhesive, try the layout by dry-fitting the vinyl.
7. Install the New Vinyl Flooring
Apply adhesive evenly for sheet vinyl or use click-lock systems for planks and tiles. Start from the center of the room and work outward. Firmly press to prevent air bubbles. In the case of click-lock vinyl, joints must be tight.
It can take a professional installer one to three days to complete a room in Singapore, depending on the size. When DIY-ing, take your time matching the patterns, particularly in wood-look or stone-look vinyl.
8. Finishing Touches
Trim excess vinyl on edges. Install or replace baseboards or put in quarter-round molding to give it a finished appearance. Some door bottoms are shaved down to accommodate new flooring height by homeowners in Singapore.
A light detergent can be used to clean the floor and get off any adhesive residues. The adhesive will take 24 hours to set, so avoid putting heavy furniture on it.
Conclusion
It is a rewarding project to replace vinyl flooring in Singapore that enhances your home’s look and value. It takes careful planning, good materials, and elbow grease to come up with a professional result. Regardless of whether you DIY or hire professionals, here are some tips you can use to make sure your new floor survives the humid environment in Singapore.