LVT - Glue Down vs. Click
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is a great flooring option for your home! It’s attractive, comes in an extremely wide variety of styles, is resilient to damage (kids and pets included), and is often more affordable than hardwood or tile. But choosing the right installation method can make a big difference and there’s a lot to consider between the two installation methods: glue down and click. So what’s the right one for you? Let's dive into the pros and cons of both.
LVT Glue Down Pros:
Budget-Friendly: Glue-down LVT itself is often cheaper than click options. Bonus points for skipping the underlayment in some cases!
Easily Fixable: Scratched a plank? No problem! Glued-down LVT can be easily repaired or replaced individual planks, unlike click systems where a whole section might need to go.
Built for Business: Glue-down LVT stands up to heavy foot traffic and rolling loads, making it ideal for commercial spaces.
Adheres Directly to Concrete: Say goodbye to underlayment on concrete subfloors! Glued-down LVT adheres directly, saving you time and money.
More Customizable: Want herringbone or a custom border? Glue-down works for a wide range of installation patterns and can be installed with feature strips and borders.
Seamless Flow: No more unsightly transition strips! Glue-down LVT can cover vast areas without interruption, creating a clean and expansive look.
Rock Solid: Glued-down LVT is directly bonded to the substrate, providing a firm and reassuring step.
Easy to Clean: Maintenance is a breeze with smooth, sealed surfaces that easily mop up spills and resist dirt.
LVT Glue Down Cons:
Pro-Power Needed: Glue-down LVT requires professional installation for a flawless finish.
Perfect Prep: Every bump and dip in your subfloor will show through your LVT. Careful preparation is key to a smooth and lasting installation.
Wood Subfloors: Wood subfloors need a special ¼” ultra-ply underlayment before your LVT gets glued down. It's an extra step, but worth it for long-term stability.
Requires a Controlled Climate: You can’t install glue-down LVT in unheated spaces. The adhesive can freeze and cause the floor to fail. Approach basements and seasonal cabins with caution if temperatures can get particularly low in those spaces.
The Verdict:
Glue-down LVT offers advantages in durability, repairability, and design flexibility, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas, commercial spaces, and homeowners who want a seamless, long-lasting floor. However, the need for professional installation and meticulous subfloor prep might make it less appealing for some.
LVT Click Pros:
Easier Prep: Forget painstaking prep work! Click LVT can be installed directly over concrete or wood subfloors, often without underlayment. This translates to quicker installations and potentially less cost.
All-Season: Do you have a sunroom or entryways that experiences temperature swings? Certain click LVT lines can hold up perfectly to those kinds of temperature fluctuations, offering peace of mind year-round.
Imperfection is Perfection: Say goodbye to laser-level subfloors. Click LVT "floats" over minor substrate imperfections, hiding any bumps and dips.
Easily Cleaned: Just like glue down, click LVT is very low-maintenance and easy to clean.
Comfort Underfoot: The attached pad in click LVT offers a touch of cushion, making it easier on your legs and back.
DIY-Friendly (Almost): While professional installation is always recommended, the click-together locking system makes click LVT more doable for DIY installation.
Cons:
Repair: Damaged planks? Brace yourself for potential headaches. Replacing a single plank often requires lifting the entire floor, and damaged planks may break during removal, leading to even more replacements.
Pattern Options: Not all patterns are created equal in the Click LVT world. Installation options for intricate designs may be limited.
Borders: Forget adding decorative borders or feature strips. Click LVT's floating nature doesn't play well with these embellishments.
Hollow Spots: Uneven subfloors can create unwanted "hollow spots" underfoot, detracting from the seamless look and feel.
More Expensive: Compared to glue-down, click LVT often carries a higher price tag.
Requires Attention to Detail: A faulty click mechanism can spell disaster for your entire floor. Vigilant inspection and proper installation are key.
Transitions: Large installations? You might need transition strips in doorways to avoid future buckling if the subfloor isn't perfectly level.
Leveling: Uneven subfloors? Click LVT won't magically fix them. Self-leveling is usually required to avoid hollow spots.
Lightweight is Best: If you have particularly bulky furniture or heavy appliances, click LVT may not hold up to intense weight, causing dents or even failure.
Commercial Cautions: Not all Click LVT is created equal for commercial spaces. Stick to dedicated lines if durability and high traffic are your priorities.
The Verdict: Click LVT offers undeniable convenience and style, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and subfloor quality before choosing click LVT. And remember, when in doubt, consult a professional to ensure you make the right decision.
