Essential Tools Every Flooring Professional Should Have

For flooring professionals, the quality of the job often comes down to two things: technique and tools. Having the right equipment not only speeds up installation but also improves precision, safety, and jobsite professionalism. Whether you’re working with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), Engineered Hardwood, Carpet Tiles, or Epoxy, investing in the right tools makes all the difference.

“I always tell new installers: buy once, cry once,” says Dave S., a flooring contractor with over 20 years of experience. “High-quality tools pay for themselves in time saved and callbacks avoided.”

Core Tools for All Installers

Regardless of material, every installer should carry the following basics:

• Tape Measure – Accurate measuring is non-negotiable.

• Chalk Line – For layout alignment and symmetry.

• Utility Knife – Preferably heavy-duty with replaceable blades.

• Kneepads – Essential for long installs and personal safety.

• Pry Bar & Pull Bar – For fitting tight edges and removing baseboards.

• Rubber Mallet – For tapping planks into place without damage.

• Moisture Meter – For subfloor and flooring material testing.

Material-Specific Tools

Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT):

• Tapping block set

• Vinyl cutter or shear

• Seam roller (for glue-down LVT)

• Pressure-sensitive adhesive and notched trowel (if required)

Engineered Hardwood:

• Flooring nailer or stapler (for nail-down)

• Glue gun or trowel (for glue-down)

• Expansion spacers

• Flooring jack (for tight fits)

Carpet Tiles:

• Carpet knife or loop pile cutter

• Carpet roller

• Double-sided installation tape or adhesive spray

• Straightedge or framing square

Epoxy Flooring:

• Floor grinder or shot blaster (for prep)

• Industrial vacuum (HEPA-rated)

• Mixing drill with paddle

• Notched squeegee and back-rolling roller

• Spike shoes (for walking on wet epoxy)

Advanced Equipment

For professionals looking to upgrade their workflow:

• 100-lb. Flooring Roller – Required for LVT and vinyl tile adhesive bonding.

• Laser Level – For perfect layout alignment, especially in large rooms.

• Oscillating Multi-Tool – Ideal for trimming under door jambs or hard-to-reach spots.

• Floor Leveling Compound Mixer – Speeds up prep for uneven subfloors.

Brands Installers Trust

Some of the most trusted names in flooring tools include:

• Crain Tools

• Roberts

• Bullet Tools

• Bostitch (for nailers/staplers)

• Wagner (moisture meters)

• Festool (precision cutting)

• RollMaster or Traxx (epoxy tools)

Tool Maintenance Tips

• Replace knife blades frequently for clean cuts.

• Clean adhesives and epoxy tools immediately after use.

• Store tools in a climate-controlled area to prevent rust and warping.

• Keep a backup set of essential tools in your truck or van.

“Your tools are your reputation,” notes Rosa F., an LVP installer from Durham. “Dull blades and busted gear signal to clients that you’re not serious.”