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    Is Floating Flooring the Best Option?

    When it comes to flooring your home is floating the best option? We're going to take you through the pros and cons of floating vs. gluing down your floors.

    DIY'ers Dream

    For all the DIY enthusiasts, floating your timber flooring is an ideal option. This method allows you to install the floor right away using a suitable underlay, and in most cases, you can walk on it immediately. However, keep in mind that floated floors are more prone to issues after installation, and replacing individual boards can be challenging.

    Does floated timber flooring feel the same as glue down?

    Look

    Yes, a floating timber floor will look identical to a glue down floor.

    Feel

    A floated floor may feel slightly hollower than a glued down floor.

    Sound

    A glue'd down engineered timber floor will sound the same as a solid timber floor underfoot, however, a floated floor may produce a flatter, hollower sound.

    Floating Floor Vs. Glue Down Longevity

    Building your forever home? Consider gluing down your flooring for lasting results. Direct stick installation helps minimise the floorboards' sensitivity to temperature and humidity changes, reducing the risk of contraction. Additionally, direct stick floors offer better resistance to water damage, making them a highly durable choice for timber flooring.

    Cost of Floating Vs. Glue Down

    Floating your flooring is the most cost-effective installation option. On the other hand, gluing down a floor involves a higher upfront cost due to the added quality and durability. While it’s a more expensive method, a glued floor provides greater stability and reduces the risk of damage over time, which may help you save on future repairs or replacements.

    Flooring Online Comparison Chart

    Compare the price, features and performance of our flooring range.

    FAQ

    View our complete floating floors FAQ page here

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    Is floating timber flooring cheaper than glue down?

    Floating timber flooring is by far the cheaper alternative to glue down flooring. Money will be saved on purchasing underlay as opposed to timber glue. Additionally, if done as a DIY job, floating your floor will be significantly cheaper. See our complete blog on floating vs. glue down here.

    Do floating floors need underlayment?

    Yes. A floating floor requires underlay be laid underneath the floorboards. Hybrid flooring has underlay pre-attached to the boards and requires no additional materials for installation.

    Can floated floors be pulled up and replaced if necessary?

    Yes, one of the big advantages of floating floors is that boards can be pulled up and replaced or even re-used elsewhere if required. Read our step-by-step guide on removing floated floorboards here.