LVT • Comparison
Floating vs Glue-Down LVT
Two common LVT formats: floating (often rigid core) and glue-down (flexible). This page compares what changes in construction and what you’ll typically see on technical data sheets. Reference-only: no product recommendations or installation instructions.
Floating (Rigid Core) LVT
Often uses a locking system and a stiffer core (commonly SPC/WPC). Data sheets frequently emphasize dimensional stability, locking/system terminology, and sometimes acoustic layers.
Glue-Down (Flexible) LVT
Designed to be fully adhered to the subfloor with a specified adhesive system. Data sheets often emphasize flexibility, adhesive compatibility, and certain indentation/static load measurements.
Quick summary
The biggest difference is the system the product is built around. Floating LVT is typically engineered as a connected plank system that “floats” as one surface. Glue-down LVT is engineered to be bonded to the subfloor, so the adhesive system is part of the overall performance picture.
On technical data sheets, this often shows up as different emphasis: floating sheets highlight locking/core/system stability, while glue-down sheets highlight adhesive compatibility and certain load-related lab tests.
When each format is commonly used
Floating and glue-down LVT are built around different system assumptions. The contexts below describe how each format is commonly specified or selected, based on how manufacturers structure technical documentation and system requirements. This is descriptive, not a recommendation.
Floating (Rigid Core) LVT
Floating LVT is commonly used in projects where the product is designed to function as a connected plank system rather than a bonded surface. Technical documentation for these products typically centers around system stability and plank-to-plank performance.
- Specifications emphasize a locking or click system.
- The product is labeled as rigid core (often SPC or WPC).
- Technical sheets highlight dimensional stability or system behavior.
- An attached pad or acoustic layer is part of the construction.
- The documentation frames performance around the floating assembly rather than adhesive bonding.
Floating systems behave as a single connected surface; specs often reflect system-level testing.
Glue-Down (Flexible) LVT
Glue-down LVT is commonly used where the product is intended to be fully adhered to the subfloor, making the adhesive system a core part of the overall floor assembly. Technical documentation reflects this bonded approach.
- Specifications reference adhesive compatibility or adhesive types.
- The product construction is described as flexible rather than rigid.
- Data sheets emphasize bonded system performance.
- Certain indentation or static load tests are highlighted.
- The system description treats the adhesive as part of the tested assembly.
Bonded systems rely on adhesive performance as part of the overall specification.
FAQ
What is the main difference between floating and glue-down LVT? ⌄
Floating LVT typically connects plank-to-plank using a locking system and is not bonded to the subfloor, while glue-down LVT is designed to be adhered to the subfloor with a specified adhesive system.
Do floating and glue-down LVT use the same specs? ⌄
Many specs overlap (thickness, wear layer, dimensions), but floating products often emphasize locking and dimensional stability, while glue-down products often emphasize flexibility, adhesive compatibility, and certain load-related tests.
Is rigid core always floating? ⌄
Rigid core is commonly associated with floating click systems, but construction and intended installation method can vary by manufacturer. Technical data sheets and official installation instructions define the intended system.
Does glue-down mean better performance? ⌄
Not necessarily. The formats are designed around different installation approaches and may highlight different performance tests. Performance depends on full construction and specified system requirements.
Reference-only note
This page provides general informational reference about floating and glue-down LVT terminology and specifications. It does not provide installation instructions, professional advice, or product recommendations.