How can I install multi color vinyl flooring?

Barbara
by Barbara

I like the idea of a multi cored floor as in different shades. Ive seen some tile companies offer this but from reading comments there are usually problems with the amount of each color tile in the box not being what they want or need. My thought is..what would be the possibility of choosing a company and style of vinyl tile that is available in mutiple color options and just choosing the colors i like and buy so many boxes of each color and then mix and match as i install. Is this possible? What potential problems should i be aware of? Any advice? Im attaching a photo of the look im going for.

  6 answers
  • 2dogal 2dogal on Nov 10, 2018

    Your idea sounds workable. You have thought it out - get the same type flooring and the boards should be interchangeable. Buy two colors and see if they line up (don't lay them permanently). Take the boxes back if they don't.

    • See 1 previous
    • 2dogal 2dogal on Nov 10, 2018

      I had floating laminate at my last house. So easy to install. I used an underlayment first. Looked good.


      I now have glue and stick laminate in my current house. First, the sub floor was not completely flat so every wave shows. Secondly, I'm in the process of removing the glue and stick laminate to install ceramic tile. It's the worst thing ever to remove! I would never use it again.

  • Hugboat Hugboat on Nov 10, 2018

    2dogal's advice is good. You have to make sure that the tiles are of the same width and thickness. I prefer that glue and stick or better yet, the tiles with the adhesive already on them (a lot less messy). Personally, I have had a bad experience with the click tiles....they don't always click like they are supposed to. Not only that, the vinyl glue and stick and the self-adhesive ones are much easier to trim, especially if you are not removing trim that will require you to fit around door trim, etc.

  • Jan Clark Jan Clark on Nov 10, 2018

    Barbara, that all depends on where the floor is and how long you expect to keep it. Glue-and-stick will work and be fairly waterproof - but will stay with the floor if it shifts. (I'm assuming there's a room under the room in question.) Floating tiles (click-lock) now also come with a more waterproof surface (I'm thinking kitchen, bath or dining room), but they use a vapor/sound barrier underlayment which allows for tiny shifts in the subfloor.

    So, if you're wanting to use this idea (I LOVE it!) on a floor that may get wet spills and or needs to resist slipping - then use the sticky back type. For a room that is just a living space without a lot of wear and tear or slipping worry, go with the click-lock.

    Oh, and whatever you do, document and post your DIY! I'm sure there are many on Hometalk that would love to see your creation. I know I would. Best of luck.

  • Huntress Huntress on Nov 10, 2018

    Glue is so messy, peel and stick depends on the company making it, some stick down better than others, click style to me is best...use an underlayment helps with sound and is helps with insulating through the floor, I love the look you r going for. Clearance boxes of flooring would be great for this. I saw a place selling carpet files like this but never made the leap to click flooring. Genius 😊

  • William William on Nov 11, 2018

    As long as the different color tiles are from the same brand the thickness should be the same. The peel and stick easier to put in. Tend to be more waterproof than laminate. Laminate can swell when wet. Click joints and end seams can separate. Edges on click can chip.

  • Charmaine Charmaine on Nov 11, 2018

    Core-Tech makes a floor like above luxury vinyl flooring. Stock item. Very durable. In their showroom for three years and no issues.