PVC flooring: glue vs click systems, advantages ...

16 Dec.,2024

 

PVC flooring: glue vs click systems, advantages ...

PVC floors (also known as LVP floors in English-speaking countries) have become a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces, thanks to their durability, versatility and ease of maintenance. Whether you're looking for a floor that can withstand heavy use, is easy to clean, or just looks good, PVC offers many advantages that make it an excellent option. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the different types of PVC floors, their benefits, installation processes, maintenance and costs. This way, you can make an informed choice for the perfect PVC floor that suits your specific needs and style.

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When planning your flooring project, in addition to installation and costs, you should also consider compatibility with floor heating. Both types of PVC floors (click PVC and glue PVC), offer a wide range of designs and can be a stylish addition to your home.

Why Choose PVC Floors

Durability

PVC floors can last for years without much wear and tear. This makes them a good investment for homes and commercial spaces.

Sound-absorbing and comfortable

PVC floors are soundproof, which means that you are less affected by contact sounds such as footsteps. This makes them suitable for apartments or spaces where silence is important.

If you install a PVC floor, you will immediately feel the comfort under your feet. They have a soft, resilient top layer that feels great with every step.

Moisture-proof and hygienic

One of the biggest advantages of PVC floors is that they are moisture-proof. This makes them suitable for kitchens, bathrooms and other wet areas.

PVC floors are also hygienic, because they do not absorb moisture and are easy to disinfect. This is especially important for families with children or pets. PVC floors are easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner or mop, making them ideal for busy households.

Design options

PVC floors are available in various designs, colors and patterns. From wood look to stone, there is always a style that suits your interior.

Types of PVC Floors

PVC floors come in different types, each with their own properties and benefits. The two main types are adhesive PVC floors and click PVC floors.

PVC Flooring on Glue

Adhesive PVC floors are thin and are installed directly onto the leveled subfloor.

Benefits of PVC on Glue

Glued PVC floors are particularly popular because of their thermal conductivity. These floors have a thickness of approximately 2.5 mm, which is ideal if you have floor heating. The surface is smoother because the floor is glued directly to the surface.

These floors are perfectly suitable for intensive use, such as in busy households or commercial spaces. In addition, adhesive PVC flooring has less shrinkage and expansion during temperature changes. This means less chance of seams or other deformations.

Maintenance is easy; vacuuming and mopping keep the floor in good condition.

Disadvantages of PVC Glue

A significant disadvantage of glued PVC floors is that they often cannot be installed in apartments due to sound insulation requirements. Many glued PVC floors do not meet the strict 10dB noise requirements that apply in apartment complexes.

In the case of glued PVC floors, extensive subfloor preparation is crucial. The subfloor must be completely flat and even to ensure good adhesion. This may involve additional costs for leveling the floor.

Laying PVC adhesive is also time-consuming and often requires professional help, which can increase installation costs. In addition, it is difficult to replace a damaged board without disturbing the entire floor.

When moving, you cannot take the floor with you, as it is glued. This limits flexibility if you plan to move in the future.

Click PVC Floors

Click PVC floors are easier to install thanks to the click system. It doesn't need to be glued to the subfloor, which means that the levelling is less critical than adhesive PVC floors. The thickness of click PVC is often around 4-8 mm, so they can add some build-up height.

Benefits of Click PVC

Click PVC floors offer a number of important benefits that make them a popular choice. They are easy to install thanks to the click system, which means you don't need glue. This makes installation faster and cheaper, and it can often be done by yourself without professional help.

Another advantage is that click PVC is slightly more forgiving when it comes to the condition of the subfloor. Although a flat surface is still necessary, it is not as critical as with PVC adhesive.

These floors are also ideal for homes that change interiors frequently, as they are relatively easy to remove and reuse. Like adhesive PVC, click PVC floors are durable and easy to maintain, which ensures long-term use without much worry.

Disadvantages of Click PVC

Click PVC also has some disadvantages that you should consider. Because it is a floating floor, there may be a little bit of slack between the panels, which can lead to a less stable feeling compared to the glued version.

Although click PVC requires slightly less surface preparation, it still needs to be fairly flat to prevent problems. It can sometimes be more difficult to get the seam to fit perfectly, especially if the surface is not completely smooth.

When used intensively or in busy households, there may be some shift over time. This can lead to bears or openings that require maintenance. Finally, click PVC floors can be sensitive to damage during installation, so extra care is required.

Click PVC can also be slightly more expensive to buy compared to other flooring options, although this is offset by the potentially lower installation costs.

How to Choose the Right PVC Floor

Choosing the right PVC floor requires attention to various factors to ensure that your floor not only looks good, but is also durable and functional. Here are some important considerations when selecting a PVC floor:

Thickness of the Wear Layer

The thickness of the wear layer is one of the most important characteristics when choosing a PVC floor. The wear layer is the transparent protective layer on top of the floor that helps resist wear, scratches and stains. The following applies to both glued and click PVC floors: the thicker the wear layer, the more durable the floor. For households with a lot of foot traffic or for commercial spaces, a wear layer of at least 0.25 mm is recommended. This thicker wear layer ensures a longer life and better floor protection.

Type of the PVC Floor

When choosing between glued and click PVC floors, you should consider the condition of the subfloor. Glued PVC floors require a perfectly flat and smooth surface for optimal adhesion and performance. However, if your subfloor is not completely flat and you don't want extensive preparation, click PVC floors are a better option. For a less perfect surface, it is wise to opt for thicker click PVC variants. This offers extra protection and makes the floor more durable.

Installation patterns

You can choose from different styles and finishes for PVC floors. This makes it easy to find a floor that fits your interior.

  • Parallel - A simple and traditional pattern where the planks are placed parallel to each other, giving a calm and uniform look.
  • Herringbone - A classic and elegant pattern where the planks are laid out in a zigzag pattern, adding dynamism and visual interest to the space.
  • Diagonal - Here, the planks are placed at an angle of 45 degrees to the walls, which can make the room look larger and more spacious.
  • Block pattern - Planks are laid in square blocks, giving a classic and structured look

Installation and Preparation

Good preparation is essential when laying PVC floors. It starts with the right surface and ends with the installation of the floor itself.

Leveling the Subfloor

Before you start laying the PVC floor, make sure the subfloor is suitable. The subfloor must be level, dry and dust-free. This is crucial, because unevenness can lead to problems such as wear and tear or even cracks in the floor.

Wood and concrete are common surfaces. Wooden floors must be firm and flat; loose planks must be secured. If the hardwood condition is poor it would make sense to level the surface with OSB plates. Concrete must be well levelled and have no cracks. You should also check for moisture, especially with floor heating; the surface must be completely dry.

If you are unsure about the condition of your surface, consider consulting a professional or using an installation service.

Choosing the Underlay for PVC Floors

Choosing the right underlay is essential for click PVC floors, but this is not necessary for glued PVC floors.

Glued PVC floors are applied directly to a flat, dry and clean surface, which ensures optimal adhesion and an even finish.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Pvc Vinyl Flooring Factory. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

For click PVC floors, a good underlay is important to attenuate noise and absorb imperfections. There are underlays specially designed for PVC floors that offer extra noise reduction and extend the life of the floor. Some click PVC floors even have a built-in underlay, often 10dB certified, which is ideal for use in apartments where noise reduction plays an important role. These integrated underlays save time and money during installation and provide a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

Laying the PVC Floor

You don't need glue for click systems, which makes the process easier. This type is popular among DIY enthusiasts.

When gluing a PVC floor, you must use the right adhesive. Apply the adhesive evenly and make sure that the floor pieces are tightly together. One rubber hammer can help to make the parts connect properly.

Start laying in the right direction and work from left to right. Use a utility knife and a ruler to cut the floorboards. Make sure there are no air bubbles under the floor.

If you have less experience, it is wise to hire professionals to avoid problems.

Costs and Budgeting

The prices of PVC floors can vary considerably depending on several factors.

  • Click-PVC floors: These range between &#;35 and &#;80 per square meter. This type of PVC is generally easier to lay by yourself, which makes it a cheaper option if you're handy.
  • Glued PVC floors: The costs are between &#;25 and &#;50 per square meter. This type often requires professional laying service, which involves additional costs.

When you have the floor laid by professionals, you must take into account additional costs. For example, all-in prices can vary between &#;70 and &#;140 per square meter.

Maintenance and Sustainability

One of the biggest advantages of PVC floors is how easy to maintain they are. They are easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner and mop. Regular cleaning keeps the floor in top condition and ensures that you can enjoy it for years to come.

Maintenance tips

  • Remove dirt: Vacuum the floor regularly to remove dirt and dust.
  • Mopping: Use a damp mop with natural soap for more thorough cleaning.
  • Stains: Remove spills immediately to prevent stains.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section covers frequently asked questions about PVC floors, including health risks, complaints, benefits of adhesive and click floors, costs, and possible expansion or contraction of a PVC floor.

What are the health risks of PVC floors?

PVC floors can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some people are concerned about these emissions because of potential health risks. It is important to choose floors that have low VOC emissions.

Why do some people regret their PVC floor?

Some people experience problems with the installation or durability of their PVC floor. Poorly installed floors can come off or be damaged. In addition, some floors may discolor under the influence of sunlight.

Which complaints are associated with PVC floors?

In case of poorly installed PVC floors, complaints such as loose parts and discoloration can occur. People can also suffer from a strong smell after installation, which is due to the chemical treatment of PVC.

How is the price of laying PVC floors calculated?

Costs may vary and depend on factors such as room size, type of PVC chosen, and installation method. Placing a glued PVC floor is often more labour-intensive and therefore more expensive.

How much shrinkage or expansion can you expect with a PVC floor?

PVC floors have minimal expansion or contraction. Thanks to the glass fleece layer, which is often present in these floors, the floor remains stable. This makes them suitable for rooms with fluctuating temperatures.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Vinyl Flooring

When it comes to choosing flooring for your home, vinyl is oftentimes a popular option, offering homeowners an affordable and versatile alternative to traditional materials like hardwood, tile, or carpet. But is it right for you? Speaking from experience, the answer could vary depending on a ton of factors. When I bought my first place, I was overwhelmed by flooring choices and wasn&#;t sure where to begin. After what felt like weeks and weeks of research, I found that for my situation at the time, vinyl flooring made the most sense to me. Over the years, I came to better understand what I loved and didn&#;t love, about vinyl flooring. Before making your decision, here are some things to consider regarding the benefits and disadvantages of this type of material.

What Is Vinyl Flooring? 

Maybe you&#;re new to the world of flooring options like I was, before we get into the pros and cons, let&#;s talk about what vinyl flooring is at its core. Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material composed of several layers: one core layer is for stability, the next is an image layer that displays the design, and the third is a top wear layer for protection. It comes in various types, such as luxury vinyl planks (LVP), luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), and sheet vinyl, with each offering a wide range of designs and styles to suit different preferences and needs.

Advantages of Vinyl Flooring

  1. Durability: This is a big one. Have kids? Pets? Depending on the type of vinyl flooring you&#;re considering, it may be a fit for you. In fact, one of the primary benefits of vinyl flooring is its durability. It&#;s built to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it pretty perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Vinyl is also water-resistant, which is great for spaces prone to moisture, and it is scratch-resistant, perfect if you have a pet and worry about claw marks.
  2. Comfort: Vinyl flooring offers a softer, more comfortable surface compared to hard materials like tile or concrete. It also has insulation properties, which help keep your floors warm in colder months, and can provide some soundproofing qualities, reducing noise transfer between rooms or levels. Perfect if you&#;re in an apartment or condo situation and don&#;t want your neighbors to hear you walking all over the place. 
  3. Maintenance: Another big advantage of vinyl flooring is its ease of maintenance. It&#;s simple to clean, and really only requires sweeping, vacuuming, or damp mopping to keep it looking its best. Compared to other flooring materials that may need waxing, polishing, or special treatments, vinyl is relatively low maintenance.
  4. Installation: Vinyl flooring is often DIY-friendly, with many options available in click-lock or peel-and-stick formats that can be installed without professional help. However, for more complex installations or to ensure the best results, you could always reach out to a professional. 
  5. Cost: Compared to other flooring materials like hardwood, stone, or ceramic tile, vinyl is generally more affordable, making it a cost-effective choice for those working with a limited budget. The price of vinyl flooring varies depending on factors like quality, thickness, and design, but overall, it tends to be less expensive than many other options.
  6. Design: Vinyl flooring comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns, making it perfect to find an option that suits your personal taste. 

While all of these things sound great, and you may think I&#;m biased since I have used it in the past, it is just as important to recognize the disadvantages of using vinyl flooring in your home. 

Disadvantages of Vinyl Flooring

  1. Susceptibility to Damage: While vinyl flooring is durable, it is not indestructible. It can be damaged by heavy loads, like furniture or appliances, and sharp objects can puncture or gouge the surface. Once damaged, it is extremely difficult to repair and almost always needs a full replacement of the affected area. 
  2. Environmental Impact: Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials, primarily polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is not biodegradable and can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Because of this, vinyl is not considered a "green" or eco-friendly flooring option. However, there are options out there that claim to be eco-friendly. 
  3. Maintenance: Although vinyl flooring is easy to clean, it cannot be refinished like hardwood or sanded and resealed like some other materials. If the surface becomes severely worn or damaged, the only option is to replace the affected planks or tiles.
  4. Aesthetics: While vinyl flooring has come a very long way in terms of realistic textures and designs, it may not fully replicate the look and feel of natural materials like wood, stone, or ceramic tile. And, over time, vinyl flooring can fade, particularly if exposed to direct sunlight, and unlike other materials, you cannot change the color or finish once it is installed.
  5. Health Concerns: Some people have raised concerns about the potential health impacts of vinyl flooring, particularly regarding the presence of toxic chemicals like phthalates and formaldehyde. However, many manufacturers now offer low-VOC and phthalate-free options to address these concerns.

Considerations When Choosing Vinyl Flooring

Subfloor Requirements

Vinyl flooring requires a smooth, flat, and dry subfloor for proper installation. Any imperfections or moisture issues should be addressed before installation to prevent problems down the road.

Thickness and Quality

The thickness and quality of vinyl flooring can vary significantly, impacting its durability, comfort, and overall performance. Generally, thicker, higher-quality vinyl will offer better durability and feel more comfortable underfoot.

Sunlight Exposure 

If your space receives direct sunlight, it's important to choose a vinyl flooring product with good UV resistance to prevent fading or discoloration over time.

Cost

While vinyl flooring is generally more affordable than other options, consider the long-term costs, including installation, maintenance, and potential replacement down the line.

Environmental and Health Concerns

If you have concerns about VOC emissions or the environmental impact of vinyl flooring, look for products that are certified low-VOC or phthalate-free, and consider the recyclability of the material.

Maintenance and Care

  1. Routine Cleaning: To keep your vinyl flooring looking its best, regular vacuuming, sweeping, and damp mopping with a mild cleaner are recommended.
  2. Avoidance of Certain Products: Avoid using wax, varnish, or steam cleaners on your vinyl flooring. Those methods can damage the surface and cause discoloration.
  3. Protection Measures: To prevent scratches and dents, use rugs or mats at entryways, and place furniture pads under heavy items like tables, chairs, and appliances.

Design Options

Vinyl flooring offers a wide range of design options, from classic wood and stone looks to more modern and creative patterns and colors. Many products also offer customization options, which is a nice way to create a unique look for your space.

When choosing a design, consider factors like the overall style of your home, the quality and realism of the texture or pattern, and the cost of the product.

Installation

Vinyl flooring can often be installed as a DIY project, but for more complex layouts or to help ensure the best results you can reach out to to a professional. 

Costs and Process 

The cost of installation will depend on factors like the size of your space, the complexity of the layout, and the type of vinyl flooring you choose. The installation process typically involves preparing the subfloor, laying out the planks or tiles, cutting and fitting the pieces, and securing them in place.

Lifespan and Durability

The durability and lifespan of your vinyl flooring will depend on several factors, including the quality of the product, the thickness of the wear layer, the level of foot traffic in the space, and how well you maintain and care for the flooring over time.

So, Is It Right For You?

Vinyl flooring offers a range of benefits, including durability, affordability, and versatile design options, making it an attractive choice for many homeowners. However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks, like environmental impact, susceptibility to damage, and health concerns, when deciding if vinyl is the right choice for your flooring remodel.

Before making a final decision, take the time to research different products, consult with professionals, and consider your specific needs and preferences. With careful consideration and proper installation and maintenance, vinyl flooring can provide a beautiful, durable, and affordable surface for your home.

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