Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Floating vs. Glue Down
Mansfield Custom Homes has used several types of flooring in our custom builds, including tile, engineered hardwood, hand-scraped hardwood, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). When it comes to LVP, there are two primary installation methods: floating and glue down. In this post, we’ll review the pros and cons of each method and share our preferred choice based on experience.
What is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a durable, versatile flooring option that mimics the look of hardwood while offering enhanced resistance to moisture and wear. It comes in various installation types, but the most common are floating and glue down.
Floating Installation
A floating installation allows the LVP to “hover” above the subfloor without being directly attached. Instead, the planks lock together, creating a seamless surface.
Pros:
Quick and easy installation
Can be installed over existing flooring
Easier to remove or replace if needed
Cons:
Movement can occur, leading to shifting or gaps over time
Sounds hollow when walked on due to the lack of direct attachment to the subfloor
Baseboards cannot be caulked to the floor, leaving a small visible gap
Glue Down Installation
A glue down installation secures the LVP directly to the subfloor using adhesive, ensuring a firm and stable surface.
Pros:
Eliminates movement and shifting
Provides a solid, stable feel with no hollow sound
Allows for caulking at the baseboards, eliminating visible gaps
More durable in high-traffic areas
Cons:
Requires more time and effort to install
More difficult to remove if replacement is needed
Subfloor preparation is essential for a smooth finish
Our Recommendation
At Mansfield Custom Homes, we have worked with both installation methods over the years. While client preference plays a significant role in decision-making, we prefer to work with glue down LVP. This method eliminates movement issues, prevents gapping at the baseboards, and provides a more secure, high-quality finish. For homeowners looking for long-term durability and stability, glue down LVP is the superior choice.
If you’re considering luxury vinyl plank for your custom home, we’d love to help guide you through the selection and installation process. Contact us today to learn more!
