Blog > Click lock vs. loose lay luxury vinyl installation: choosing the best fit for your San Diego, CA project

Click lock vs. loose lay luxury vinyl installation: choosing the best fit for your San Diego, CA project

September 8, 2024

Luxury vinyl flooring has become increasingly popular due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're renovating your home or upgrading your commercial space, choosing the right installation method for your Luxury vinyl flooring in San Diego, CA can significantly impact the longevity and performance of your flooring. 

Dive into the two primary installation methods of luxury vinyl flooring: click lock and loose lay – to help you make an informed decision.

Click lock vs loose lay installation

Click lock installation:

Click lock LVF planks feature a tongue-and-groove system that allows them to interlock seamlessly, creating a secure and stable floor.

Pros:

• Ease of Installation: The click-and-lock mechanism makes installation relatively straightforward, often requiring minimal tools and expertise.
• Durability: The interlocked planks provide a tight fit, making the floor more resistant to moisture and movement.
• DIY-Friendly: Many homeowners find click lock LVF suitable for DIY projects due to its user-friendly installation process.

Cons:

• Subfloor Preparation: Requires a smooth and level subfloor for optimal performance. Imperfections in the subfloor can lead to unevenness or squeaking.
• Less Flexible: Click lock planks are less forgiving if individual planks need replacement due to damage.

Loose lay LVF installation:

Loose lay LVF planks are not attached to the subfloor but rely on their weight and friction to stay in place.

Pros:

• Fast and Easy Installation:Loose lay planks can be installed quickly and easily without any adhesive or locking mechanism.
• Flexibility: Individual planks can be easily replaced if damaged.
• Forgiving of Imperfections: Loose lay LVF can be installed over slightly uneven subfloors.

Cons:

• Potential for Movement: Loose lay planks can potentially shift or move over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Less Moisture Resistant: The seams between loose lay planks are not as tight as click lock, making them slightly more susceptible to moisture infiltration.

Which installation method is right for you? 

The best installation method depends on your specific needs and preferences:

• DIY Enthusiasts: Click lock might be a better choice if you plan to install the floor yourself.
• Uneven Subfloors: Loose lay is more forgiving of minor subfloor imperfections.
• High-Traffic Areas: Click lock might be preferable for areas with heavy foot traffic to minimize the risk of plank movement.
• Quick Installation: Loose lay offers faster installation than click lock.

Talk to Geneva Flooring, your go-to luxury vinyl flooring store in San Diego, CA 

At Geneva Flooring, we offer a wide range of luxury vinyl flooring options and expert installation services. As a woman-owned company specializing in hardwood flooring in San Diego, CA, since 1999, we have the knowledge and experience to help you choose the right LVF and installation method for your project. We service the areas of Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, Poway, Scripps Ranch, and Del Mar.

Call or visit our showroom today to explore our extensive collection and consult with our flooring specialists. We'll guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect LVF to ensuring a flawless installation.