what is loose lay vinyl flooring and why still need glue to install loose lay vinyl flooring?

2024-06-20

Loose lay flooring is a type of flooring installation method, particularly common with luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Unlike traditional flooring that requires adhesives or nails for securing them to the subfloor, loose lay planks or tiles simply click together and lay flat on the existing surface.

While loose lay flooring is generally designed to be installed without adhesives, there are certain situations where using glue can provide additional benefits. Here are some of the advantages of using glue when installing loose lay flooring:

1. Enhanced Durability: Glue can significantly improve the durability of loose lay flooring, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens, hallways, and living rooms. The adhesive bond creates a stronger connection between the planks or tiles and the subfloor, making them more resistant to movement, shifting, and separation. This can help prevent premature wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the flooring.

2. Moisture Resistance: In areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, using glue can provide an extra layer of protection against water damage. The adhesive can help seal the gaps between planks or tiles, preventing moisture from seeping through and potentially causing subfloor damage or mold growth.

3. Reduced Noise: Glue can help dampen sound transmission, making loose lay flooring quieter underfoot. The adhesive fills the gaps between planks or tiles, reducing hollow spaces that can amplify sound. This can be particularly beneficial in multi-unit dwellings or areas where noise reduction is a concern.

4. Smoother Surface: Using glue can create a smoother and more even surface, especially on subfloors that are not perfectly level. The adhesive can help fill in minor imperfections and irregularities, reducing the likelihood of unevenness or bumps underfoot. This can enhance the overall appearance and feel of the flooring.

5. Preventing Gaps and Movement: In areas with large expanses of loose lay flooring or heavy furniture, using glue can help prevent gaps from forming and planks or tiles from shifting. The adhesive provides additional support and stability, especially in areas that experience frequent movement or foot traffic.

6. Permanent Installation: If you intend for the loose lay flooring to be a permanent installation, using glue can ensure a more secure and long-lasting adherence to the subfloor. This is particularly important in areas where the flooring is exposed to heavy traffic or moisture.

7. Subfloor Conditions: If the subfloor is not perfectly smooth, level, or has minor imperfections, using glue can help compensate for these irregularities and create a more even surface for the loose lay flooring. The adhesive can fill in gaps and minor depressions, ensuring a smoother and more stable installation.

8. Peace of Mind: For those who prefer a more secure and permanent installation, using glue can provide peace of mind and reduce the risk of the flooring shifting, lifting, or separating over time. The adhesive bond ensures a stronger connection between the planks or tiles and the subfloor, enhancing the overall durability and longevity of the flooring.

   
   

9. 

It's important to note that using glue may not always be necessary for loose lay flooring. If the subfloor is perfectly smooth, level, and dry, and the flooring is not intended for high-traffic areas, then a glue-less installation may be sufficient. However, in situations where durability, moisture resistance, noise reduction, or a permanent installation are desired, using glue can provide significant benefits and extend the lifespan of the loose lay flooring.