Floating luxury vinyl flooring
Floating luxury vinyl flooring is an installation method where the planks or tiles are not glued down to the subfloor but instead click and lock into place. This method has several advantages:Ease of Installation: One of the primary benefits of floating luxury vinyl is its ease of installation. It's a DIY-friendly option that can save you on installation costs. The planks or tiles can often be installed over existing flooring, provided it's flat and clean.
Quick Installation: Floating floors can be installed more quickly than glue-down options. This means less disruption to your daily life during the installation process.
Moisture Resistance: Floating vinyl planks typically have a moisture barrier built into the design. This makes them ideal for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Less Damage to Subfloor: Since the planks or tiles aren't adhered to the subfloor, they can be removed without causing significant damage, making future renovations easier.
However, there are some considerations with floating luxury vinyl:
Sound: It can be a bit noisier underfoot compared to glue-down vinyl, especially if not properly installed with an underlayment to reduce sound transmission.
Not Ideal for Uneven Subfloors: If your subfloor has significant imperfections, floating vinyl may not be the best choice, as it can "float" over these imperfections, leading to an uneven surface.
Glue-down luxury vinyl flooring
Glue-down luxury vinyl is installed by adhering the planks or tiles directly to the subfloor using adhesive. This method also has its unique advantages:Durability: Glue-down vinyl tends to be more stable and durable since it is firmly secured to the subfloor. This makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas.
Quiet and Solid Underfoot: Glue-down vinyl provides a quieter and more solid underfoot feel compared to floating vinyl, making it a good choice for bedrooms and living areas.
Ideal for Uneven Subfloors: If your subfloor has minor imperfections, glue-down vinyl can help level them out, creating a smoother surface for installation.
No Gaps or Movement: Once installed, glue-down vinyl is less likely to shift or develop gaps over time.
However, there are some downsides to consider:
Professional Installation: Glue-down vinyl installation typically requires a professional, which can add to the overall project cost.
Longer Installation Time: It takes longer to install glue-down vinyl compared to floating options, which may result in more inconvenience during the installation process.
Subfloor Preparation: Subfloor preparation is crucial for glue-down vinyl to ensure a smooth and even surface, which can be time-consuming.
The choice between floating and glue-down luxury vinyl flooring depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for an easy, DIY-friendly installation and have a level subfloor, floating luxury vinyl might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize durability, a solid feel underfoot, and don't mind professional installation, glue-down luxury vinyl may be your best bet.
