When it comes to choosing the right vinyl flooring for your home, you’ve got two main options: Click-Lock or Glue Down vinyl.
Whether you’re a homeowner, DIY enthusiast, or renovator, understanding the key differences between Click-Lock and glue-down vinyl flooring can help you make a more informed decision.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of each method and how they might work for your project.
Advantages of Click-Lock Vinyl Flooring
If you’re looking for a hassle-free installation with minimal mess, Click-Lock vinyl flooring might be your best choice. This option is designed with interlocking edges that snap together, making installation quick and easy—no glue or nails required. It’s perfect for DIYers or anyone who wants to avoid the mess and stress of adhesives.
Why folks love it:
- Simple Installation: As the name suggests, Click-Lock planks simply click into place, making it ideal for those with little or no experience in flooring installation.
- No Glue or Nails: The lack of adhesive means there’s no sticky mess to clean up, and it can be easier to remove if you ever want to change the floor down the line.
- DIY-Friendly: Because of its ease of installation, Click-Lock vinyl is a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. You can save time and money by installing it yourself, without needing professional help.
- Floating Floor System: Click-Lock planks are considered a floating floor, meaning they don’t need to be glued or nailed down to the subfloor. This can reduce the potential for expansion and contraction with temperature changes.
Best For – Homeowners who want a quick, easy, and cost-effective flooring solution. It’s ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or even DIY renovation projects.
Things to keep in mind – While Click-Lock vinyl is fantastic, there are a few things to keep in mind. Extreme temperature shifts (common here in Calgary!) can cause slight expansion or contraction if not installed just right. Another thing to note is that the subfloor must be very level when using click vinyl planking. For very wet areas like bathrooms, always confirm the specific product is rated for high moisture, even if it’s generally water-resistant. Finally, you might find it feels a tiny bit less “solid” underfoot compared to a glued floor, especially if your subfloor isn’t perfectly level. Remember, all vinyl options, whether click or glue down, are 100% waterproof.
Advantages of Glue Down Vinyl Flooring
On the other hand, Glue Down vinyl flooring is a more traditional option that involves adhering the planks directly to the subfloor with a strong adhesive. This method is often preferred for high-traffic areas, as it tends to offer more durability and stability.
Why folks love it:
- Long-Lasting Stability – Once the adhesive sets, Glue Down vinyl flooring provides a firm, stable surface that’s less likely to shift or move, even in high-traffic areas.
- Easy to Repair – With the glue down, you can remove and replace singular planks versus a click, where you have to unclick the entire row to replace one plank.
- More Design Flexibility – With Glue Down vinyl, you can install flooring on almost any type of subfloor, including concrete or uneven surfaces, which makes it versatile for various room conditions.
- Sound Insulation – The installation of Glue Down vinyl can also provide a better sound barrier, which is especially helpful in multi-level homes or apartments.
Best For – Homeowners looking for a long-lasting, highly durable option for areas that experience high foot traffic, like kitchens, bathrooms, or hallways. Glue down vinyl is also slightly more cost effective, and easier for DIY
Things to keep in mind – For Glue Down vinyl, professional help is often recommended. And that’s what Deerfoot Carpet and Flooring is here for! Getting a perfect glue application and properly prepping the subfloor are key to a successful installation. This method takes a bit more time and effort, as the glue needs time to dry and the work requires more attention to detail. If a plank gets damaged, fixing it can be trickier since the piece is glued down and will need to be carefully removed and replaced.
Which One Should You Go With?
Ultimately, while both are great options, the choice between Click-Lock and Glue Down vinyl depends on your needs, skills, and the specific requirements of your space.
Go with Click-Lock Vinyl
If you want an easy-to-install, cost-effective solution that works well in most rooms. It’s ideal for DIYers or those looking to update their floors quickly.
Opt for Glue Down Vinyl
If you need a durable, stable flooring option that can handle heavy foot traffic, Glue Down performs just as well as Click-Lock vinyl in high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms. The biggest advantage is its flexibility, allowing it to be installed over concrete without the extensive prep work required for a rigid click floor.
Click-Lock or Glue Down Vinyl: We Got You Covered
Both Click-Lock and Glue Down vinyl offer unique benefits, but the best option for your home will depend on your preferences and the demands of your space.
Looking to make the right choice for your next project? Whether you prefer the quick installation of Click-Lock vinyl or the lasting power of Glue Down vinyl, our team at Deerfoot Carpet & Flooring has got you covered.
Reach out to us anytime if you want to learn more about these options or want to explore if there are other ones to consider!
