Room dimensions
Plank size
Sq ft per box (check your box)
This varies by brand. Check the label on the box at the store.
Lay pattern
Standard straight lay. Least waste and easiest to install.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vinyl Planking
How much vinyl plank flooring do I need?
To find how much vinyl plank flooring you need, measure each room’s length and width in feet, multiply for square footage, and add the rooms together. Then add 10% for waste and cuts (15% for diagonal layouts or rooms with many angles). Flooring is sold by the box with a stated square-foot coverage, so divide your total adjusted square footage by the box coverage and round up. Our Vinyl Plank Calculator handles the waste factor and converts square footage into boxes.
How much waste should I add for flooring?
Add 10% extra for a standard straight-lay vinyl plank installation, which covers cuts at the walls, around doorways, and the occasional damaged plank. Increase to 15% for diagonal or herringbone layouts, irregularly shaped rooms, or many closets and alcoves where there are more cuts. Buying a little extra from the same lot also leaves you matching planks for future repairs. Running short mid-project risks a different dye lot, so it’s better to slightly over-order.
What’s the difference between SPC, WPC, and standard LVP?
LVP (luxury vinyl plank) is the general category. Standard flexible LVP is thinner and glued or loose-laid. WPC (wood-plastic composite) has a thicker, slightly softer core that’s warmer and more comfortable underfoot. SPC (stone-plastic composite), also called rigid core, has a dense, hard core that’s extremely durable, more dent-resistant, and very stable against temperature changes—making it a strong choice for high-traffic areas and rooms with sunlight. SPC is thinner than WPC but tougher; WPC feels cushier. Choose based on durability versus comfort.
Do I need underlayment for vinyl plank flooring?
Many vinyl plank products have underlayment pre-attached, in which case you don’t add a separate pad. For planks without it, a thin underlayment can add cushioning, sound dampening, and minor smoothing over the subfloor—check the manufacturer’s instructions, since some warranties require a specific underlayment or none at all. Over concrete, a moisture barrier may be recommended. Always confirm whether your specific product needs underlayment before buying, as it affects both performance and installation.
What tools do I need to install vinyl plank flooring?
Click-together vinyl plank needs relatively few tools: a tape measure, a utility knife or vinyl plank cutter for scoring and snapping, a square, spacers to maintain the expansion gap at the walls, a tapping block and pull bar to snug joints, and a rubber mallet. A jigsaw or multi-tool helps with notches around doorframes and pipes. For glue-down planks, add a trowel and adhesive. Most floating SPC and WPC floors are designed for straightforward DIY installation with hand tools.