There’s nothing more frustrating than dealing with the brutal reality of beautiful floors. They’re just not capable of keeping up with practical living. Whether it’s dealing with your pet’s claw marks or constantly having to monitor your toddler, it almost seems like you’re constantly walking on eggshells.
But maybe it doesn’t have to be that way? Maybe you could finally choose beautiful floors that can handle your actual life? Cooking disasters in the kitchen and muddy boots in the entryway are all part of your everyday life, after all.
The flooring industry has caught on to this problem. That’s exactly why glue down vinyl plank flooring has become the solution for countless homeowners.
Here’s why glue down vinyl flooring might just be the smartest home decision you’ve made yet.
What is Glue Down Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Simply put, glue down hardwood floors are strikingly similar to fake wood and look real. These floors are made up of a number of layers that are pressed together to make individual planks and mimic the appearance of hardwood, stone, or even tile.
Glue down basically means these planks are stuck to your subfloor with special adhesive permanently. So, unlike floating floors, glue down vinyl helps create a solid bond with the surface beneath the planks.
Glue down wood flooring typically has 4 main layers:
- A clear wear layer on the very top. This layer protects your floors against scratches and stains
- A decorative layer that’s built to give you that wood or stone look
- A core layer that provides the strength
- A backing layer that’s stuck to the surface beneath
Why Choose Vinyl Glue Down Flooring Over Other Flooring Options?
As a homeowner who’s looking to install new floors, you’re practically spoilt for choice. Laminate flooring, hardwood flooring, vinyl flooring, engineered wood, and the list goes on. Why go for glue down laminate flooring?
Well, fortunately for you, we’ve rounded up some of the advantages of this flooring option over others:
- Glue down floors are incredibly tough. Since each plank is attached to the subfloor firmly, this floor can handle serious foot traffic, furniture, and even commercial use.
- Water has nothing on vinyl glue down flooring. You can install it in bathrooms, kitchens, and even basements without a second thought. Any sort of moisture, and this floor can handle it.
- Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Unlike other floors that require you to jump through hoops just to keep them looking decent, regular sweeping and the occasional mopping is the way to go.
- Cost-wise, these floors give you a lot of bang for your buck. You get the look of expensive hardwood at a fraction of the price, and these floors are expected to last for 15 to 20 years. Win-win, if you ask us!
Also read: How to Clean LVP Flooring?
What to Expect During the Installation Process
Glue down vinyl plank flooring is pretty manageable to install on your own. However, you can always hire professionals if you’re looking to save up on time, effort, and, of course, wanting a perfect finish.
Here’s what you’re in for:
Step 1: Make sure your subfloor is prepared. This means making sure it’s clean, level, and completely dry so it can handle the rest of the process.
Step 2: Apply the adhesive with the help of an adhesive trowel and spread it across the subfloor in small sections.
Step 3: Place the planks carefully into the adhesive and make sure they’re straight and aligned properly. Firmly press down on the planks and give them ample time to bond with the adhesive.
The entire installation process is pretty simple. However, it requires patience and attention to detail. What you’ll get is a rock-solid floor that simply won’t budge.
Common Mistakes To Steer Clear Of (If You’re Going Down the DIY Route)
You’d think watching a couple of YouTube tutorials would be enough, but that’s not exactly the case. Here are some of the most common mistakes homeowners tend to make when attempting to make an installation on their own:
- Not following the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Every product comes with its own set of requirements for adhesive type, subfloor preparation, and installation technique.
- Using the wrong adhesive. This can easily void your warranty and cause serious problems down the road. One wrong adhesive choice and you’re looking at issues such as gaps, lifting and adhesive failure.
- Skipping proper subfloor preparation! Even the smallest imperfections can create an uneven surface or worse – visible flaws in your floors.
- Not allowing proper acclimation time. Vinyl products need to sit in the installation room for at least 48 hours before installation so they can adjust to the temperature and humidity.
Is Glue Down Vinyl Right for Your Home?
If you haven’t guessed already, we’re huge fans of glue down vinyl floors. But the question comes down to whether or not they’re perfect for your specific requirements.
You’ll absolutely love these floors if you:
- Tend to get a lot of traffic in your home, especially in entryways, kitchens, or family rooms.
- Have pets or children at home, so spills and accidents are second nature.
- Have a commercial or rental property and need a flooring option that can withstand abuse and still look great, even after taking a good beating.
- Have concerns regarding moisture in areas such as the basement.
We have to be honest, though, your floors are only as good as the installation. By following manufacturer guidelines, using quality products, and getting a professional to install it for you, you’re doing yourself a huge favor.
Speaking of quality products and professionals, Floorika Fine Hardwood has you covered! We understand that choosing the right flooring is no small feat. Not only do we offer premium glue down vinyl plank flooring, but we also guide you through every step of the process. Yes, from selection to installation, you’re covered!
