Home improvement projects are still on the rise, and flooring remains one of the most popular upgrades. Vinyl–a synthetic plastic made from polyvinyl chloride or similar polymers–is one of the top flooring choices today.
That is due to its durability and long-lasting, great looks. It is also much more economical than other types of flooring.
There are many different types of vinyl floor installation. This includes glue-down vinyl tile and click lock flooring. They each have distinct advantages and potential drawbacks.
This article explains what those are. Keep reading to find out which one may be best for your home.
What Is Vinyl Tile Click Lock Flooring?
Vinyl tile click lock flooring refers to special planks or tiles that have a locking mechanism. These are usually tongue-and-groove edges that fit snugly together.
As the name suggests, this allows them to click and lock into place for a tight fit. This type of vinyl flooring does not require the use of glue or other adhesives.
What Is Glue Down Vinyl Flooring?
Glue-down vinyl is an installation method where the flooring is secured to the subfloor. This requires the use of an adhesive.
There is both pressure-sensitive and hard-set glue-down flooring. Pressure-sensitive vinyl flooring has an adhesive built into the tile, which makes it easier to remove and replace. Hard-set vinyl flooring uses glue spread onto the subflooring, which creates a more uniform and stronger hold.
Which Is Better: Click Lock or Glue Down?
Both click lock and glue down vinyl flooring are available in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns. They can both mimic other flooring types, including natural materials like wood and stone.
These also are extremely strong and durable floors. Both types of luxury vinyl tiles hold up well against impacts, scratching, and staining.
In general, you can expect glue down vinyl flooring to be more secure than vinyl click lock flooring. The adhesive helps prevent movement and moisture penetration. It also enhances the stability and longevity of the vinyl flooring.
For this reason, glue down vinyl flooring may be ideal for areas with high foot traffic or where there is exposure to water (such as kitchens or bathrooms). However, it may not be necessary for other parts of a home, where click lock vinyl may be suitable.
The main advantage of click lock flooring is that it is easy and quick to install. It also has the potential to create much less mess. For this reason, it is more popular than glue-down flooring for DIY projects.
Also, click lock flooring often comes with a padded underside. This can provide additional cushioning and noise reduction. For these reasons, click lock vinyl flooring may be preferable for certain rooms of the house.
Find Vinyl Flooring Solutions Near You
Now that you understand the difference between vinyl tile click lock flooring and the glue-down variety, you can determine which is best for your home or business. A reputable vinyl flooring installer can further advise you on which type is right for your particular project.
Since 1947, LX Hausys has been sourcing the highest quality flooring materials to enhance the value of living spaces. Our goal is to create aesthetically pleasing floors through the use of energy-efficient and eco-conscious materials. Reach out to us today to learn more.