Glue vs. No-glue Flooring

Can anyone tell me the pros and cons of Glue vs. No-glue laminate or wood flooring that will be installed over a concrete slab in Florida? I don't know if humidity is a factor but the house has central air conditioning.

 

No pro but what I can tell you one thing about the glued laminate - it will require more work and precision on how much glue to use. Use too little and you can have joint failure...use too much can make your installation harder.

When deciding on a type of laminate, you probably know, but each manufacturer will have their specific instructions. Have you found any particular type of laminate wood you are interested in? If so, read the installation instructions and see if you are up for the challenge. I have seen a couple available instructions on-line for Pergo and Quick-Step (for example).

Here's some info you can read up on too if you'd like:

http://www.doityourself.com/stry/laminatefloorbasics

Just a few things for the basics. The more you read, the better and more confident you will get.

Humidty is definitely a factor when you have to install laminate flooring. It needs to stay consistent. Obtaining a hygrometer will help check your humidity levels and a moisture meter will help with the moisture content in your subfloor.

I couldn't tell, but did you want to know about laminate and hardwood flooring?

The guys (and gals) here are awesome too. Check back as I know others will help you out with even more information as well.

 

Moisture issues in concrete can cause adhesive failure in glue-down installations. Floating (no glue) installations require a vapor retarder over concrete. Humidity is not a factor if levels are maintained year round between 35-55%. The only way to know is to monitor with hygrometer (sold where thermometers are sold). Floor covering should be placed in rooms where it is going to be installed to acclimate (adjust) to temperature and humidity per manufacturer's instructions before installation.

 

I swear I read somewhere that the last glued T&G laminate, Pergo Select, went to a glueless design awhile back.


Glueless, quicker installation. It isn't really easier to install.

Glued, a little slower to install, but the joints are not as prone to water damage, and opening up with swings in humidity.