Glue-down LVT requires you to trowel the adhesive down and keep the RH level in mind when deciding between glue-down and self-adhesive products. When choosing an adhesive for your hardwood flooring, there are several things to consider. While self-adhesive planks may sound convenient, these won’t stick to uneven or crumbling floors.
Water-based adhesives
Most adhesives come in a liquid consistency and cure over time in the air to form a flexible solid. There are three types of water-based adhesives: evaporative, solvent-based, and moisture-cure urethanes or polymers.
Acrylic adhesives are the most commonly used with concrete, stone, and LVT/vinyl products. They are strong, durable, and water-resistant. However, water-based adhesives must be cleaned when wet, and they may lose their bonding power with moisture.
While this is a downside, water-based adhesives are less likely to cause problems, including cracking and peeling. Despite their positives, they are more environmentally friendly. And because they’re water-based, they’re easier to clean than acrylic adhesives.
Solvent-based adhesives are also a good option for wood floors. These adhesives are compatible with most subflooring products and are often used with engineered wood. They’re highly durable and long-lasting, but their solvents will evaporate after a couple of weeks.
Water-based adhesives are a safer choice for people who dislike chemicals. They don’t contain any VOCs and are therefore safe for use in places where ventilation is not an issue. And because they’re nontoxic, they are perfect for bathrooms and other enclosed spaces. They’re even better than construction adhesives when protecting hardwood floors.
Urethane glue
Urethane adhesives have been around for decades and have many advantages over traditional adhesives. Its high strength, fast curing speed, and water and solvent-free formula are important features to consider before choosing this type of glue. However, there are a few things to remember when using urethane glue for hardwood flooring. Read on to find out what you need to know about urethane glue for hardwood flooring.
Wood Go is one of the most common types of urethane glue for hardwood flooring. This gluing compound can keep the wood aligned and prevents hollow areas in the finished floor. While it isn’t ideal for all types of wood floors, Bostic GreenForce Adhesive is an excellent choice for wood floors installed on concrete substrates. The glue also has moisture control properties and protects the finished hardwood floor from absorbing moisture.
All-In-One products
All-In-One products are a great way to clean your hardwood floors without the mess of scrubbing. The Bissell SpinWave hardwood and laminate cleaner is a powerful upright mop with a 28-ounce water tank and built-in power-spinning mop pads. The EPA-certified formula is easy to apply with a convenient spray bottle. It comes in two sizes, one for soft-touch floors and another for tougher messes. It is easy to maneuver and lightweight enough to carry from room to room without leaving any residue.
The Bona wood cleaner is the most highly recommended hardwood flooring cleaning product by most hardwood professionals.
Hardwood floors are one of the most durable flooring materials around. They can withstand heavy traffic for years and still maintain their appearance. Their unique grain pattern and texture are what make them so special. Unlike other types of floors, hardwood floors are also easy to repair and restore. You won’t need to replace them for years unless they show wear and tear. These floors are perfect for homes and commercial locations alike.
RH limitation
A concrete substrate’s relative humidity (RH) affects the adhesive’s strength and ability to stick to the surface. The higher the RH, the higher the risk of failure.
One factor to consider when choosing an adhesive is the homeowner’s ability to control the RH. The homeowner must monitor the humidity level in their home and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. For example, the recommended RH for the flooring material is 35% to 55%. Moreover, the room’s temperature should be within the range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Any deviations from these guidelines may cause excessive cupping, splitting, and checking. It will void any warranty provided by the manufacturer. As a result, Artisan Hardwood Floors should not be installed in areas where heavy traffic is expected.
Another factor to consider is the moisture content of the subfloor. While some wood floors may be stable in humid environments, others may need additional protection. For example, solid wood is more sensitive to the environment than engineered wood and requires a more elastic adhesive.
Eco-friendliness
There are several factors to consider when choosing an environmentally-friendly hardwood flooring adhesive. The FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council, a global organization promoting responsible management of the world’s forests. FSC-certified products help preserve the biodiversity of native forests and are not derived from clear-cut forests. When deciding on a hardwood flooring adhesive, look for an FSC logo to ensure that the manufacturer is committed to environmental sustainability.
Unlike hardwood trees, bamboo is a renewable resource. Bamboo can grow faster than hardwood trees, and once harvested, the roots regenerate. Bamboo flooring adhesives are FSC-certified and monitored. However, the environmental impact of the glues may not be as easy to assess. For instance, some glues emit volatile organic compounds, which harm the environment. The World Health Organization recommends using wood-based products that have low VOC emissions.
