Which One Is Right For You?
When it comes to selecting the right type of wood flooring, many homeowners find themselves choosing between two popular installation methods: the floating floor and the glued down floor. Both have their own distinct advantages and potential drawbacks, so the best choice ultimately depends on your space, budget, and lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll outline the key differences between floating floors and glued down floors to help you make an informed decision that suits your needs.
What Is a Floating Floor?
A floating floor is a type of installation where the floorboards aren’t secured to the subfloor with nails or adhesive. Instead, the planks ‘float’ over the existing surface, interlocking using a tongue-and-groove or click-lock mechanism.
Advantages of a Floating Floor
1. Simple DIY Installation
One of the main attractions of a floating floor is how straightforward it is to lay. There’s no need for glue or nails, so even beginners can install it using the interlocking system. This makes it a time-saving and budget-friendly option.
2. Affordable and Low Maintenance
Floating floors don’t require special tools, glue, or nails, which helps reduce both material and labour costs. They’re also easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for busy households.
3. Health-Conscious and Non-Toxic
As floating floors don’t use adhesives, you avoid exposure to harsh chemicals like formaldehyde and phthalates—both of which are commonly found in certain glues and may pose health risks.
4. Comfortable Underfoot
The layer of air between the subfloor and the floorboards creates a slight cushion, offering a softer feel when walking or standing.
Disadvantages of a Floating Floor
1. Unsuitable for Humid Environments
In areas with high humidity, floating floors can expand or contract, leading to warping or buckling. Using the correct underlay can help minimise this issue.
2. Can Be Noisy
A common drawback is the sound—floating floors can creak or echo, particularly in larger spaces or where acoustic insulation is limited.
3. May Wear Over Time
Floating floors can develop dents or signs of wear under heavy furniture or in high-traffic areas. The upside is that damaged planks can often be replaced with relative ease.
What Is a Glued Down Floor?
A glued down floor involves applying a strong adhesive directly to the subfloor, then laying the floorboards on top. This creates a more permanent and stable flooring system, often used with solid wood, engineered wood, or luxury vinyl planks.
Advantages of a Glued Down Floor
1. Solid and Secure
Since each board is firmly bonded to the subfloor, a glued down floor doesn’t shift or move. It offers a more solid, stable feel underfoot—something many homeowners prefer.
2. Quieter Performance
Because it’s fixed in place, this type of flooring tends to be quieter than a floating floor, making it ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, and home offices.
3. No Additional Underlay Required
The adhesive often serves as a built-in moisture barrier, which can eliminate the need to purchase and install a separate underlay.
Disadvantages of a Glued Down Floor
1. More Complex to Install
Laying a glued down floor typically requires more time and skill—often best handled by professionals. The process can also be messy, with strong adhesives that require adequate ventilation.
2. Costly Repairs
Since the floorboards are permanently attached, replacing damaged sections can be labour-intensive and expensive. A specialist may be required for repairs or replacements.
Floating Floor vs Glued Down Floor: Key Differences
| Feature | Floating Floor | Glued Down Floor |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | DIY-friendly, no glue required | Professional recommended, adhesive needed |
| Comfort | Softer underfoot | Firmer and more stable |
| Noise | Can be noisier | Quieter underfoot |
| Moisture Resistance | Requires underlay | Adhesive acts as vapour barrier |
| Maintenance | Easy to replace individual planks | More difficult to repair |
| Cost | More budget-friendly | Typically higher due to materials and labour |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a floating floor better than a glued down floor?
It depends on your preferences. A floating floor is perfect for quick DIY projects and areas where flexibility is a priority. A glued down floor, on the other hand, offers more stability and quieter performance, though it involves more effort and cost to install.
Do floating floors feel hollow?
Some floating floors can feel slightly hollow or bouncy if not properly installed with a quality underlay. However, premium materials and correct fitting can greatly reduce this effect.
Can you install a floating floor over existing flooring?
Yes, a floating floor can often be laid directly over existing hard flooring like tiles or vinyl—as long as the surface is clean, level, and in good condition.
How long do glued down floors last?
With proper care and maintenance, glued down floors can last for decades. Their fixed nature makes them highly durable, especially in high-traffic areas.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a floating floor and a glued down floor comes down to your priorities—whether it’s ease of installation, comfort, durability, or long-term maintenance.
- Opt for a floating floor if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-install solution that can be replaced or updated with minimal effort.
- Choose a glued down floor if you prefer a more stable, permanent flooring with less noise and are happy to invest in professional installation.
Whichever option you go for, both can dramatically improve the look and feel of your home—just make sure the choice complements your lifestyle, budget, and environment.
