The Basics of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl planks come in three primary forms:
- Click (SPC/WPC): These are known as floating floors. They mimic the installation of laminate with either wood or limestone composite.
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Glue-Down: Typically purer in vinyl content, these require adhesive for installation.
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Loose Lay: Despite the name, these planks should be glued down to avoid movement due to expansion and contraction.
The quality of vinyl can vary significantly, affecting both performance and appearance. LVP/LVT features a decorative layer over the vinyl base, topped with a wear layer, which can be 2mm or 5mm thick.
Historical Context and Evolution of Vinyl Flooring:
Vinyl flooring has come a long way since its discovery in 1926 by Waldo Semon. Initially, vinyl was rudimentary, with poor visuals and durability. Over decades, it evolved into what we now recognize as LVP/LVT, with improved aesthetics and performance, though not without its challenges:
- Expansion and Contraction: Vinyl is notorious for its thermal dimensional changes, leading to installation issues like gapping, peaking, and delamination, mainly if not acclimated correctly or installed in areas with significant temperature swings.
The Controversy Surrounding PSA for Vinyl Flooring
Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) is often marketed for its ease of use,e but here’s why it’s generally not recommended for vinyl planks:
- Lower Bonding Strength: PSA provides a weaker bond than wet adhesives, increasing the risk of plank movement, lifting, or gapping over time.
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Dimensional Instability: Vinyl expansion and contraction can overwhelm the tackiness of PSA, leading to visible defects.
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Potential for Lifting: Without the correct installation pressure (using a heavy roller), planks might not adhere sufficiently, causing them to lift or buckle.
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Moisture Issues: PSA can trap moisture, leading to further flooring problems like warping.
Practical Observations from the Field from my experience:
- Thickness and Performance: Vinyl under 2.5mm tends to show more gapping and edge lifting, while thicker planks might only lift.
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Storage and Memory: Improperly stored vinyl can “remember” its deformed state, affecting installation integrity regardless of the adhesive used.
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Installation Practices: Mixing products from different manufacturers can lead to compatibility issues. Always opt for a single-source solution for both flooring and adhesive.
Recommendations for Installation with PSA
If PSA use is unavoidable:
- Follow Instructions: Adherence to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines is crucial.
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Acclimation: Both flooring AND ADHESIVE should be acclimated to the environment.
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Moisture Testing: Conduct necessary moisture tests as per manufacturer’s standards.
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Record Keeping: Document plank measurements and environmental conditions during installation and take completion photos. Provide this data to the homeowner.
Conclusion
While vinyl plank flooring can offer a cost-effective, visually appealing solution, the choice of adhesive is pivotal for longevity and performance. PSA, while convenient, often falls short of providing the stability needed for vinyl floors. Homeowners and installers should consider these insights before deciding on their flooring solutions, aiming for quality and durability over mere convenience. Remember, in flooring, as in much of life, you get what you pay for, and sometimes, a little extra investment in the right materials and methods can save a lot of trouble down the line.