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Resource Center
“Do I need to glue vinyl flooring,” is a very common question we receive. There are a few types of vinyl flooring, each with a unique installation process. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the manufactures’ installation instructions and installation options prior to purchasing and installing. Let’s explore the common types of vinyl flooring and when you need to glue it down.
Click Lock vinyl flooring is a floating floor that has a locking system – making installation as easy as simply clicking the planks together. This installation method does not require any glue. Installation will only require a vapor barrier underlayment (depending on your subfloor) and possibly some installation tools.
As the name states – glue down vinyl flooring does require glue. This installation method can be cheaper but is not as quick and simple as click lock vinyl flooring. Every plank needs to be glued down to the subfloor. Glue down planks can be used with both plywood and concrete subfloors and is a good option for places where the subfloor may not be perfectly even.
Loose Lay vinyl flooring does not require any glue, but also does not have a locking system. This vinyl offers the easiest installation, as you simply just lay the planks down-one directly next to another – and keep moving forward. It is the simplest method of installation as there is no need for an expansion gap. You must be meticulous in your cuts, however, as the floor planks need to fit to the walls in order to stay properly.
There are a few reasons why you would want to opt for a glue down vinyl vs. the other two options. Glue down is a popular option in commercial spaces and large spaces, as these planks do not need the same expansions needs as a floating floor. You will also need transitions with a floating floor, which are eliminated with a glue down option.
Glue down vinyl flooring can also be used in areas where the subfloor may not be perfectly even. You also will not need an underlayment with glue down vinyl flooring.
Choose your vinyl flooring based on your subfloor’s condition and which installation method sounds most suitable to you. If you have any questions as to which vinyl floor installation method will work best for you, call our representatives at 1-800-520-0961!
Contact the Bestlaminate Flooring Experts today! Call us at 1-800-520-0961 or send us a quick message to get expert advice and answers.
We are here to help. Schedule a free consultation with our friendly experts or call us today at 1-800-520-0961.
What kind of glue is recommended for a 4mm luxury vinyl
Hi Elizabeth! Great question. We’d recommend looking at your manufacturer instructions to see which glue is recommended. It may vary depending on the floor you purchased!
We have a covered, mostly enclosed patio in Southern California. It does not get temperature extremes however could get wet in a rain storm. We want an attractive floor as it currently have linoleum. Would vinyl flooring work in this space?
Hi Suzanne, thanks for your question! There’s a few things to consider when thinking about using a vinyl in this situation. We would recommend looking for an outdoor flooring option, and I will explain why. First off, installing a vinyl in an openly exposed room will void the warranty, as this flooring is made for indoor usage. Second, vinyl flooring is waterproof, but you can get into trouble if you are using a click or quick-lay vinyl and water is able to find a way under the plank. This can cause mold to begin to grow where water is unable to escape. A glue-down should pose less worry in that circumstance, but it’s still something to consider with the exposed areas of your patio. Third, vinyl flooring can fade when it experiences continual UV exposure, so the life of your vinyl made lessen in an area with high amounts of sunlight. All in all, you’ll get more for your money if you find a flooring created for outdoor usage. Hope this helps!
I would like to glue down 2mm vinyl planks on my condo suite which is on the ground level in low rise building. I have been told by the condo management company that I need underlayment. Although I do not have anyone living below me as my suite is on the ground level, I was told that the sound travels sideways and could be a noise issue. Is that really true? I will Wait for your response as you have the expertise in this industry. Thank you
Mary H
Hi Mary, thanks for your question! We get a lot of questions about building codes when it comes to apartments and condos. Some will require a specific type of underlayment to use that has sound ratings. Using a glue-down or click vinyl will not allow you to use an underlayment for extra sound protection. If you want the moisture protection of a vinyl, we would recommend going with a WPC vinyl option. This would allow you to add a sound-proofing underlayment to meet the condo specifications and will provide you with the same look and feel as a glue down or click vinyl. Feel free to send us an email at: [email protected] or call us at 800-520-0961 if you have any additional questions or need some help finding the right floor!
Does the 2mm glue down vinyl planks have to be over a luan underlayment? Can the planks be glued directly to the old hardwood floor?
Hi Bill, great question! You do not need an underlyament when working with a gluedown vinyl. They can be glued right to the subfloor. Most glues will have a moisture barrier if you are installing over a concrete subfloor. If you have any additional questions, give us a call: 800-502-0961. Thanks!
What kind of floor do you think is best? I kind like the idea of my flooring just clicking into place. I feel like it would be stronger that way. Unfortunately, I am not very handy. I will call a pro out to come do a quote for my house.
Hi Kody! If you’re doing a large space, we recommend doing a glue down. A floating floor has more joint stability within a 30ft distance in any direction. Other than that, a click plank is generally easier to install since you do not have to worry about glue and extra equipment. Let us know if you have any additional questions!