What is Loose-lay Flooring and how to install it?

Loose-lay sheet vinyl is unique because it doesn't require adhesive. Once you cut it to size and put it in place, it's installed. It's an ideal solution for covering surfaces such as painted concrete, to which adhesives don't adhere well.

Loose-lay vinyl has a heavy fiberglass backing that allows the sheet to lay flat on the floor without glue. To prevent loose-lay vinyl from curling up in high traffic areas, secure the material with double-sided tape at the doorways. Before installing this or any floor covering, make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, and smooth.

Is Loose-Lay Floor Waterproof?

Vinyl flooring is waterproof does not mean it can survive large amounts of water. When vinyl specifies that it is waterproof, it simply means that surface water will not affect the floor or cause any damage. This makes it a perfect choice for homes and businesses where spills and pet accidents may occur. This is also a good solution for rooms where water is easy to see, such as bathrooms and corridors.

What happens if water spills on the vinyl floor? Well, mop and clean your spills immediately. If you experience a leak or a small amount of water, you may be able to just dry the flooring with a shop-vac or towel. If an extreme water incident, such as a flooded basement, you will need to do some damage control. In the case of a wood subfloor it may need to be replaced or may be able to be repaired after it’s been dried. Baseboards and sheetrock may also need to be replaced.

Luxury vinyl flooring is in the form of planks or tiles, which can be snapped together, glued together, or installed loosely. This is the perfect floor choice for those who like to decorate their houses. The current patterns and styles are so convincing; it is difficult to distinguish vinyl from real hardwood, ceramics, and even stone.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring has become more popular for a variety of reasons including ease of installation, stability in locations that have temperature or humidity fluctuation, and dent resistance for drops or heavy furniture. If you’re a homeowner, property manager or business owner, luxury vinyl flooring may be a great option for your next project.

As with any product, there are disadvantages associated with vinyl plank flooring. If you choose to glue down vinyl plank or tile, the removal process is known to be very difficult. Vinyl plank flooring is very durable; however, it is a softer material than most laminates, hardwoods, and tiles. Vinyl flooring can be damaged by sharp objects.

All flooring has pros and cons. Be sure to do your research and consideration.