Floating vs. Glue-Down Vinyl: What is Best For You?
If you’re thinking about upgrading your flooring to luxury vinyl plank (LVP), congratulations! LVP is a fantastic option for homeowners who want the look of hardwood without the high cost or heavy maintenance. However, before you sign a contract, it’s important to understand the common mistakes people make when choosing LVP so you can protect your investment.
Let’s dive into the differences between LVP click floating and LVP glue-down installation. Each has its pros and cons, but the key is knowing which one is right for your specific space. Ready? Let’s go!
1. Not Knowing the Difference Between Floating and Glue-Down LVP
One of the most common mistakes is assuming all luxury vinyl is created equal. While they may look identical on the surface, the “mechanics” of the floor are quite different.
LVP Click Floating: This type features a tongue-and-groove locking system. Many versions come with built-in padding (underlayment) that provides extra cushion and sound dampening. It’s a favorite for DIYers because it is easy to install and can be replaced plank-by-plank if damage occurs.
LVP Glue-Down: This flooring is secured directly to the subfloor using a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Because it is physically bonded to the ground, it won’t shift or “bounce,” making it the gold standard for high-traffic commercial spaces or rooms with heavy furniture.
The Fix: Choose based on your environment. If you’re flooring a busy retail office, go with glue-down. For a residential bedroom or living area where comfort and DIY-friendliness matter, floating is likely your best bet.
2. Thinking You Can Install Glue-Down LVP Without a Pro
While click-lock floating floors are designed for the weekend warrior, glue-down LVP is a different beast entirely. Installing it incorrectly can lead to unsightly gaps, buckling, or the “quarter gap”—a small space that appears between planks as they settle or shrink.
The Fix: If you choose glue-down, it is crucial to hire professional flooring installers. An expert ensures the adhesive is applied evenly and the subfloor is perfectly prepped, preventing shifting over time.
3. Forgetting About Subfloor Preparation
Your LVP installation is only as good as the surface beneath it. According to the World Floor Covering Association, subfloor preparation is the most critical step in any flooring project.
Floating LVP needs a smooth, level surface. If the floor is uneven, the “click” joints can undergo too much stress, causing them to snap or separate over time.
Glue-Down LVP requires an ultra-clean, non-porous, and bone-dry surface. Any moisture or dust will prevent the glue from bonding, leading to loose planks.
The Fix: Never skip the prep! Ensure the area is clean, dry, and level within 3/16″ over a 10-foot radius. If you aren’t sure if your floor is ready, we can perform a moisture test and level check for you.
4. Ignoring Expansion Gaps and Baseboards
Floating LVP is a “living” floor—it expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. A common mistake is installing it tight against the wall. Without a proper expansion gap, the floor has nowhere to go and will eventually buckle upward.
Furthermore, floating floors need the weight of baseboards to help stay seated, whereas glue-down floors are fixed in place and don’t rely on perimeter trim for stability.
The Fix: Always leave a 1/4″ to 3/8″ gap around the perimeter. Install your baseboards after the flooring is laid to hide the gap and secure the edges of a floating floor.
Final Thoughts
We know a flooring project is a massive undertaking. Choosing between materials and finding a reliable contractor can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve developed a streamlined process to guide you toward the best decision for your home and your budget.
In our industry, there is chemistry and there is trust. Chemistry is that instant “click” you feel with a person, but trust is something that must be earned through quality work and transparency. At Redeemed Flooring, we strive to earn that trust with every plank we lay.
Have more questions about which LVP is right for your home? Email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com