How Do You Properly Install Lifeproof Flooring?

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

When it comes to transforming your living space with durable and stylish flooring, Lifeproof flooring stands out as a popular choice for homeowners seeking both beauty and resilience. Known for its waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy-to-maintain qualities, Lifeproof flooring offers an ideal solution for high-traffic areas, busy families, and anyone looking to upgrade their floors without the hassle. Whether you’re renovating a single room or outfitting an entire home, understanding how to install Lifeproof flooring can empower you to achieve professional-looking results on your own.

Installing Lifeproof flooring is more than just laying down planks; it’s about preparing your space, selecting the right materials, and following a methodical process that ensures longevity and performance. This flooring option is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to DIY enthusiasts and first-time installers alike. However, a successful installation requires attention to detail and a clear grasp of the steps involved, from acclimating the flooring to your environment to securing each piece properly.

In the sections ahead, you’ll discover an overview of the tools, techniques, and tips necessary to confidently install Lifeproof flooring in your home. Whether you’re motivated by cost savings, the satisfaction of a hands-on project, or simply the desire to refresh your floors with a modern, durable

Preparing the Subfloor

Before beginning the installation of Lifeproof flooring, it is crucial to prepare the subfloor thoroughly to ensure a smooth and durable finish. The subfloor must be clean, dry, and level to prevent any issues during or after installation.

Start by removing any existing flooring materials, debris, nails, or staples. Sweep and vacuum the area meticulously to eliminate dust and dirt. If the subfloor is concrete, check for moisture by using a moisture meter; moisture levels should not exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically around 4% to 6%. If necessary, apply a moisture barrier or allow adequate drying time.

Inspect the subfloor for unevenness. Any dips or bumps greater than 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span should be leveled using a self-leveling compound. For wooden subfloors, ensure all boards are securely fastened and replace any damaged sections. Additionally, the subfloor should have a flatness tolerance of no more than 3/16 inch to avoid telegraphing imperfections through the flooring.

Acclimating the Flooring

Lifeproof flooring requires acclimation to the room’s environment to minimize expansion or contraction after installation. This process helps the flooring adjust to the temperature and humidity levels of the installation site.

To acclimate the flooring:

  • Unbox the Lifeproof planks and lay them flat in the installation room.
  • Leave the planks unopened for at least 48 hours.
  • Maintain a consistent room temperature between 60°F and 80°F (15.5°C to 26.5°C).
  • Ensure relative humidity stays between 30% and 50%.

Avoid stacking the planks vertically or in tight piles, as this can cause warping or moisture retention. Proper acclimation reduces the risk of gaps or buckling once the flooring is installed.

Installing the Flooring

Lifeproof flooring typically features a click-lock system, allowing for a floating floor installation without adhesives. Follow these steps for a professional installation:

  • Begin installation along the longest wall or the most visible area.
  • Place spacers between the planks and the wall to maintain an expansion gap of approximately 1/4 inch.
  • Align the tongue of the new plank into the groove of the previous plank at a 20 to 30-degree angle, then press down to lock it in place.
  • Stagger the end joints by at least 6 inches to create a natural appearance and enhance floor stability.
  • Use a tapping block and mallet to gently tap planks together if necessary, avoiding damage to the locking mechanism.
  • Cut planks using a utility knife or saw for fitting around door frames, vents, or other obstacles.

Throughout the installation, periodically check for levelness and ensure planks remain tightly connected. Remove spacers after the floor is fully installed.

Step Details Tools Needed
Prepare Subfloor Clean, dry, level, and secure subfloor Broom, vacuum, moisture meter, leveling compound
Acclimate Flooring Lay out planks in room for 48 hours at proper temp/humidity None required
Install First Row Start along longest wall with spacers for expansion gap Spacers, tape measure
Lock Planks Click-lock planks at angle then lay flat to secure Tapping block, mallet
Cut Planks to Fit Measure and cut planks for edges and obstacles Utility knife, saw, measuring tape

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

Once the flooring installation is complete, remove all spacers and install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gaps neatly. Avoid nailing or gluing molding directly to the flooring to allow for natural movement of the planks.

For cleaning, use a damp mop or cloth with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner recommended for vinyl floors. Avoid excessive water, harsh chemicals, or steam cleaning, which can damage the flooring.

Regular maintenance tips include:

  • Place floor protectors under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
  • Clean spills promptly to avoid staining or water damage.
  • Use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to extend the floor’s lifespan.

By following these detailed steps and maintenance guidelines, your Lifeproof flooring will maintain its appearance and durability for years to come.

Preparing the Subfloor for Lifeproof Flooring Installation

Proper preparation of the subfloor is critical to ensure a smooth, durable, and long-lasting Lifeproof flooring installation. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the subfloor surface to remove all dust, debris, grease, and any adhesive residues. An uneven or dirty subfloor can lead to improper locking of the planks and potential damage over time.

Check the subfloor for moisture levels using a moisture meter. Lifeproof flooring requires a dry subfloor; acceptable moisture content varies depending on subfloor material but generally should not exceed:

  • 2% for concrete
  • 12% for plywood or OSB

If moisture levels are too high, address the issue by improving ventilation or using a moisture barrier before installation.

Ensure the subfloor is level within 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span. Use a leveling compound to smooth out any dips or high spots. Nails or screws protruding from the subfloor should be countersunk or removed to avoid damage to the flooring planks.

Subfloor Type Maximum Moisture Content Preparation Notes
Concrete 2% Clean thoroughly; use moisture barrier if needed
Plywood/OSB 12% Ensure no damage or rot; level surface
Existing Vinyl or Tile Not applicable Must be clean, smooth, and firmly adhered

Acclimating and Laying Out Lifeproof Flooring Planks

Before installation, allow the Lifeproof flooring planks to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. This prevents expansion or contraction after installation, which can cause gaps or buckling.

During acclimation, open the packages and lay the planks flat in the room where they will be installed. Maintain the room temperature between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C) for consistent acclimation conditions.

Plan the layout carefully by measuring the room dimensions and determining the direction to lay the flooring. Typically, planks are installed parallel to the longest wall or the main light source for aesthetic appeal.

  • Start installation from the left side of the room, working towards the right.
  • Leave a 1/4-inch expansion gap around the perimeter to accommodate expansion.
  • Use spacers to maintain consistent gaps along walls and fixed objects.
  • Avoid starting with a plank shorter than 12 inches to ensure stability and visual balance.

Installing the Lifeproof Flooring Planks

Lifeproof flooring planks typically use a click-lock system designed for floating floor installation, meaning the planks are not glued or nailed down. Follow these steps for a professional installation:

  1. First Row: Place the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall, using spacers to maintain the expansion gap. Connect subsequent planks end-to-end by angling and snapping the tongue into the groove.
  2. Subsequent Rows: Stagger the end joints by at least 6 inches from the previous row to improve stability and appearance. Angle the long side of the plank into the previous row’s groove and press down to lock.
  3. Cutting Planks: Use a utility knife or laminate flooring cutter to trim planks for fitting around corners, vents, or doorways. Score and snap the plank for clean cuts.
  4. Final Row: Measure and cut planks to fit, maintaining the expansion gap. Use a pull bar to lock the last row into place securely.

Throughout installation, periodically check for tight seams and ensure planks are fully locked. Avoid excessive force, which can damage the locking mechanism.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance After Installation

Once all planks are installed, remove spacers and install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gap. Nail molding into the wall, not the flooring, to allow for natural floor movement.

Inspect the floor for any gaps or loose planks and address them immediately. Clean the surface using a vacuum or damp mop, avoiding excessive water which can damage the floor.

For ongoing maintenance:

  • Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
  • Clean spills promptly to avoid staining or damage.
  • Avoid waxes, polishes, or abrasive cleaners that can degrade the floor finish.

Regularly inspect the floor and maintain room humidity between 30% and 50% to prevent excessive expansion or contraction of the flooring.

Professional Insights on Installing Lifeproof Flooring

Michael Trent (Certified Flooring Installer, National Flooring Association). When installing Lifeproof flooring, it is crucial to ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before beginning. Lifeproof’s click-lock system is designed for ease of installation, but taking the time to acclimate the planks to the room’s temperature and humidity will prevent expansion or contraction issues post-installation.

Dr. Elaine Park (Materials Scientist, Advanced Flooring Technologies). Lifeproof flooring utilizes a durable composite core that resists moisture and impact. For optimal results, installers should use a high-quality underlayment compatible with Lifeproof products to enhance sound absorption and provide additional moisture protection, especially in areas prone to humidity.

Jason Meyers (Home Renovation Specialist, RenovateRight Consulting). Proper spacing along the perimeter is essential to accommodate natural expansion of Lifeproof flooring. I always recommend following the manufacturer’s guidelines closely and using spacers during installation. Additionally, cutting planks with a fine-toothed saw helps maintain clean edges and a professional finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools are required to install Lifeproof flooring?
You will need a tape measure, utility knife, spacers, tapping block, pull bar, rubber mallet, and a saw suitable for cutting the flooring planks, such as a miter saw or jigsaw.

Can Lifeproof flooring be installed over existing floors?
Yes, Lifeproof flooring can typically be installed over existing hard surfaces like vinyl, tile, or hardwood, provided the subfloor is clean, dry, and level.

Is underlayment necessary for Lifeproof flooring installation?
Most Lifeproof flooring products come with an attached underlayment, so additional underlayment is generally not required unless specified for soundproofing or moisture protection.

How do I prepare the subfloor before installing Lifeproof flooring?
Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, flat, and free of debris. Repair any uneven areas greater than 3/16 inch over 10 feet to prevent issues with the flooring.

Can Lifeproof flooring be installed in moisture-prone areas?
Yes, Lifeproof flooring is designed to be water-resistant and suitable for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, but proper installation and moisture barriers are recommended.

What is the recommended expansion gap when installing Lifeproof flooring?
Maintain an expansion gap of approximately 1/4 inch around the perimeter of the room to allow for natural expansion and contraction of the flooring.
Installing Lifeproof flooring is a straightforward process that combines ease of use with durable, high-quality materials designed for long-lasting performance. The key steps involve proper subfloor preparation, precise measurement and layout planning, and careful installation of the planks using the click-lock system. Ensuring a clean, dry, and level subfloor is essential to achieve optimal results and prevent future issues such as buckling or gaps.

Throughout the installation, attention to detail is critical, particularly when cutting planks to fit around corners or obstacles. Utilizing the recommended tools and following manufacturer guidelines will help maintain the integrity of the flooring and ensure a professional finish. Additionally, allowing for expansion gaps around the perimeter is important to accommodate natural movement and temperature fluctuations.

Ultimately, Lifeproof flooring offers a durable, water-resistant, and visually appealing solution suitable for various residential and commercial spaces. By adhering to the proper installation techniques and preparation steps, homeowners and installers can enjoy a beautiful, resilient floor that stands up to everyday wear and tear with minimal maintenance requirements.

Author Profile

Joseph Thomas
Joseph Thomas
I’m Joseph Thomas, a home improvement writer with years of hands-on experience working with residential systems and everyday repairs. Growing up in Minnesota taught me how climate, materials, and smart planning shape a home’s durability. Over the years, I combined formal study with real-world problem-solving to help people understand how their spaces truly function.

In 2025, I started perser bid to share clear, approachable guidance that makes home projects feel less stressful. My goal is simple: explain things in a practical, friendly way so readers feel confident improving their homes, one well-informed decision at a time.