Laminate Flooring Glue Or Not

Laminate Flooring: Glue or Not?

Laminate flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. However, one of the key decisions to make when installing laminate flooring is whether or not to use glue. While glue can provide some benefits, it is not always necessary, and there are some situations where it may not be the best choice. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using glue for laminate flooring to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Using Glue

There are several advantages to using glue for laminate flooring:

Increased stability: Glue helps to hold the laminate planks securely in place, reducing the risk of movement or buckling. This is especially important in areas with heavy foot traffic or high humidity.
Improved moisture resistance: When glue is applied to the edges of the laminate planks, it creates a seal that helps to prevent moisture from penetrating the joints. This can help to protect the flooring from damage caused by spills or leaks.
Reduced noise: Glue can help to reduce noise by filling in any small gaps between the laminate planks. This can create a quieter and more comfortable living space.

Cons of Using Glue

While glue can provide some benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:

More difficult to install: Gluing laminate flooring requires more time and effort than simply clicking the planks together. It is also more difficult to make repairs if a plank becomes damaged.
Potential for damage: If glue is not applied correctly, it can damage the laminate flooring. Excess glue can also be difficult to remove, leaving behind a sticky residue.
Increased cost: Glue is an additional expense that must be factored into the cost of installing laminate flooring. It can also increase the cost of labor if you hire a professional installer.

When to Use Glue

Based on the pros and cons discussed above, there are certain situations where using glue for laminate flooring is generally recommended:

Areas with heavy foot traffic: In areas such as hallways, kitchens, and living rooms, where there is a lot of foot traffic, glue can help to keep the laminate flooring in place and prevent it from becoming loose or damaged.
Rooms with moisture: In bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens, where there is a risk of moisture exposure, glue can help to seal the joints between the laminate planks and prevent water from penetrating the flooring.
Subfloors that are not perfectly level: If the subfloor is uneven or has imperfections, glue can help to fill in any gaps and create a more level surface for the laminate flooring.

When Not to Use Glue

There are also situations where using glue for laminate flooring is not necessary or may even be detrimental:

Floating laminate flooring: Some types of laminate flooring are designed to be installed as floating floors, meaning that they are not glued down to the subfloor. These floors are typically easy to install and can be removed and replaced without damaging the subfloor.
Areas with radiant heat flooring: Radiant heat flooring systems can cause glue to dry out and become brittle, which can lead to problems with the laminate flooring. In these areas, it is best to use a floating laminate flooring system.
Temporary installations: If you are only planning to install laminate flooring temporarily, such as for a rental property or a temporary living space, it is not necessary to use glue. You can simply click the planks together and remove them when you are ready.

Conclusion

Whether or not to use glue for laminate flooring depends on a number of factors, including the type of flooring, the subfloor conditions, and the expected use of the space. By carefully considering the pros and cons discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve the best possible results for your laminate flooring installation.