Installing a floor can be quite messy and challenging, and buying a floor without knowing its installation method can make you regret your choice. But this has an easy solution! This is simply to know at least the most common installation methods floors have. This post examines the four main types of flooring installation.

Floating

Its name is self-explanatory; a floating floor just floats without additional joining methods. Allow us to explain – floating floors are simply laid down and stay in place thanks to their own weight. The most common floors that are floating floors are laminate and engineered wood flooring. Since there are no nails, glue or any other additional method used, the floor feels much more pleasant under your feet. Floating floors present a very interesting advantage which is that they can be installed with underfloor heating, unlike those laid with certain adhesives. However, they also have a disadvantage – floating floors are not totally water resistant, so if a spillage occurs you will need to remove it straight away to avoid damage, this also means that they have a limited tolerance towards moisture. However, the solution to the latter is to add a moisture barrier to the subfloor for an extra layer of protection.

But Up 

This method is used to install vinyl tiles. The method consists of gluing down each tile, and even though it is quite easy, it is important to pay attention to the dimensions in order to make sure they are aligned properly. Gluing the tiles/planks allows them to stay in place and not lift, and better able to withstand impact. This is great not only for homes, but also commercial properties. This method also makes removing single tiles simpler for if or when the floor needs replacing. 

Tongue and Groove

This installation method is the most traditional, as it is typical of solid wood and engineered wood. The name refers to the side of the boards that are designed to interlock perfectly – one side of the plank has a protruding edge and the other side has a rebated edge. Once fitted, this creates a smooth floor with no gaps. To complete the tongue and groove installation you first need a sub-floor and you can use either nails or glue to make sure the floor stays in place.

Click

This method, like with floating floors, doesn’t need additional joining methods. This type of installation is very easy and is perfect if you like DIY. As the name says, this floor is installed by “clicking” together. The boards have a locking system that allows them to stay together and in place once placed down, which is the reason there is no need of any other joining method. Although it is more commonly associated with solid wood and engineered wood flooring, some laminate and vinyl floors now come with this method.