When exploring luxury vinyl flooring, whether it’s LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) or LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank), you’ll encounter two primary installation methods: dryback LVT and click-fit LVT. At Vinyl Flooring Direct, our preference leans towards click-fit, but we aim to provide a balanced perspective on both types. This way, you’re equipped with the knowledge to select the most fitting option for your requirements. With over 15 years of experience in providing LVT flooring to homeowners, interior designers, and builders, we have a deep understanding of LVT flooring.
What Is Click LVT?
The ‘click’ in Click LVT refers to the unique interlocking system that distinguishes it from other types of vinyl flooring. Each tile or plank is engineered with a groove-and-tongue mechanism along its edges, allowing the pieces to securely click together without the need for adhesives. This feature not only facilitates a swift and clean installation process but also enables a floating floor setup, where the LVT lies unattached to the subfloor beneath it.
What Is Dryback LVT?
The term ‘dryback’ refers to the adhesive installation process required for these tiles or planks. Unlike Click LVT, which employs a click-and-lock system for installation, Dryback LVT necessitates the application of a special adhesive to the subfloor, onto which the tiles are then laid and secured. This method of installation demands thorough preparation of the subfloor to ensure it is level, clean, and dry, thereby guaranteeing optimal adhesion and the longevity of the flooring.
Click vs Dryback Comparison
| Parameter | Click LVT | Dryback LVT |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Method | Interlocking system allows for relatively easy and quick installation without the need for adhesives. Suitable for DIY projects. | Requires the application of adhesive to the subfloor, demanding a more careful and time-consuming installation process, typically performed by professionals. |
| Subfloor Preparation | Requires a clean, level, and dry subfloor. Minor imperfections can sometimes be tolerated due to the floating installation. | Requires a meticulously prepared subfloor to ensure optimal adhesion. Imperfections must be addressed to prevent issues with the bond to the adhesive. |
| Durability and Stability | Offers good durability and is suitable for residential and light commercial use. The floating floor system may have slight movement. | Extremely stable once adhered, with excellent durability. Well-suited for high-traffic and commercial areas due to the strong bond to the subfloor. |
| Ease of Repair and Replacement | Individual tiles or planks can be easily lifted and replaced if damage occurs, making it convenient for repairs. | Replacing damaged tiles is more challenging due to the adhesive bond. It may require cutting out the damaged piece and carefully replacing it. |
| Aesthetic Variety and Authenticity | Offers a wide range of designs and textures that closely mimic natural materials. Technological advancements continue to improve its authenticity. | Also provides a broad spectrum of aesthetic options, with advanced printing and texturing techniques that enhance the realistic appearance of the flooring. |
When To Choose Click LVT?
Simplicity of Installation: If you’re looking for a flooring option that is relatively easy to install without professional help, Click LVT is an excellent choice. Its interlocking design allows for a straightforward, adhesive-free installation, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts or projects where quick and easy installation is a priority.
Adaptability: Click LVT is suitable for a wide range of environments. ts floating installation system allows for expansion and contraction with temperature and humidity changes, making it adaptable to various conditions such as over underfloor heating and in fluctuating temperature and humidity areas like a conservatory.
No Subfloor Imperfections: If the subfloor has minor imperfections, Click LVT can be forgiving due to its floating nature. While the subfloor still needs to be level, clean, and dry, slight irregularities are less likely to impact the final appearance and performance compared to flooring that requires direct adherence.
Repair and Replacement Ease: Should damage occur, the ability to easily replace individual planks or tiles without disturbing the rest of the floor makes Click LVT a convenient option. This feature is particularly valuable in high-traffic areas where the likelihood of wear and tear is higher.
When To Choose Dryback LVT?
Stability and Durability: Dryback LVT is adhered directly to the subfloor with a special adhesive, which provides enhanced stability and durability. This makes it an excellent choice for commercial spaces where the floor needs to withstand heavy use and foot traffic without shifting or lifting.
No Floating: Unlike Click LVT, Dryback LVT does not float above the subfloor. This can be advantageous in environments where a more permanent flooring solution is desired.
Intensive Use Areas: For spaces that will see intensive use or where maximum longevity is a priority, the robust nature of Dryback LVT makes it a compelling choice. Its resistance to wear and tear, coupled with the strong adhesive bond, ensures the flooring remains intact and functional under demanding conditions.
Optimal Acoustic Performance: When properly installed with the right adhesive, Dryback LVT can provide better sound dampening qualities compared to floating floors. This can be a critical factor in multi-level buildings, flats, and settings where noise reduction is a priority.
Why We Chose Click LVT at Vinyl Flooring Direct?
At Vinyl Flooring Direct, our commitment to offering high-quality, versatile, and user-friendly flooring solutions led us to exclusively offer Click LVT and LVP. The convenience of the click-and-lock installation system, combined with its ability to gracefully handle subfloor irregularities and environmental shifts, makes it a standout choice. Its rapid installation process is particularly advantageous for spaces that require swift updates, minimising any operational interruptions. Furthermore, Click LVT’s robustness and low maintenance, paired with its vast array of design options, align with our mission to deliver versatile, high-quality flooring that meets the varied demands of our customers, encapsulating both functionality and style.
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FAQ
What sets Click LVT apart from other vinyl flooring options?
Click LVT stands out with its distinctive interlocking mechanism, which features a groove-and-tongue design along the edges of each plank or tile. This allows for an easy, adhesive-free installation, setting Click LVT apart with its quick, hassle-free setup that results in a floating floor configuration.
How is the installation of Dryback LVT different from that of Click LVT?
Dryback LVT installation involves applying an adhesive to the subfloor before laying the tiles or planks, contrasting with Click LVT’s straightforward interlocking system. This process necessitates a meticulously prepared subfloor to ensure a secure bond and durability, making it more suited to professional installation.
How do the durability and stability of Click LVT compare to those of Dryback LVT?
Click LVT is known for its respectable durability, making it suitable for both residential settings and light commercial use. Its floating installation may allow for some movement. Dryback LVT, on the other hand, offers superior stability and durability due to its adhesive bond to the subfloor, making it ideal for areas with heavy traffic.
What are the differences in repair and replacement between Click and Dryback LVT?
Click LVT’s design enables easy removal and replacement of individual pieces, offering a convenient solution for damage. Conversely, replacing sections of Dryback LVT can be more complex due to its adhesive connection, often requiring precise removal and replacement of the affected area.
How do Click and Dryback LVT compare in terms of subfloor requirements?
Click LVT can accommodate minor subfloor imperfections thanks to its floating floor design, requiring only a level, clean, and dry subfloor. In contrast, Dryback LVT demands a more rigorous subfloor preparation to ensure a flawless adhesion, with any imperfections needing to be addressed prior to installation.