Should Sheet Vinyl Flooring Be Glued Down

Should Sheet Vinyl Flooring Be Glued Down?

Sheet vinyl flooring is a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties due to its durability, affordability, and ease of maintenance. However, there is some debate as to whether or not sheet vinyl flooring should be glued down, as it can be installed using a variety of methods, including loose-lay and self-stick.

Benefits of Gluing Down Sheet Vinyl Flooring

There are several benefits to gluing down sheet vinyl flooring, including:

Improved durability: Glued-down sheet vinyl flooring is more durable than loose-lay or self-stick flooring, as it is less likely to buckle, tear, or lift.
Enhanced stability: Glued-down sheet vinyl flooring is more stable than loose-lay or self-stick flooring, which is important for high-traffic areas.
Reduced noise: Glued-down sheet vinyl flooring produces less noise than loose-lay or self-stick flooring, making it a good choice for homes with children or pets.

Drawbacks of Gluing Down Sheet Vinyl Flooring

There are also some drawbacks to gluing down sheet vinyl flooring, including:

Difficulty of installation: Gluing down sheet vinyl flooring is more difficult than installing loose-lay or self-stick flooring, and it is recommended that it be done by a professional.
Cost: Gluing down sheet vinyl flooring is more expensive than installing loose-lay or self-stick flooring, as it requires the purchase of adhesive.
Removal difficulty: Glued-down sheet vinyl flooring is more difficult to remove than loose-lay or self-stick flooring, as it must be peeled off the subfloor.

When to Glue Down Sheet Vinyl Flooring

Based on the benefits and drawbacks of gluing down sheet vinyl flooring, it is best to glue down this type of flooring in areas that receive a lot of traffic, such as kitchens, hallways, and entryways. It is also a good option for areas where stability is important, such as in homes with children or pets.

When Not to Glue Down Sheet Vinyl Flooring

It is not necessary to glue down sheet vinyl flooring in areas that do not receive a lot of traffic, such as bedrooms and closets. It is also not a good option for areas where moisture is a concern, such as bathrooms and mudrooms.

Conclusion

Whether or not to glue down sheet vinyl flooring depends on the specific needs of the room. If durability, stability, and noise reduction are important factors, then gluing down sheet vinyl flooring is the best option. However, if ease of installation, cost, and removal are more important, then loose-lay or self-stick flooring may be a better choice.