In part 1 we compared some of the pros and cons of different constructions of floating wood floors, specifically click lock and tongue and groove styles. Today we will continue and focus on Tongue & Groove.
The advantages of click lock were clear for those who want to try their hand at DIY flooring, although we found out the tongue and groove wood floors may actually be easier to install and more versatile for different applications, which is the reason we are shifting towards a more tongue & groove based engineered wood flooring market today.
Let’s take a closer look at tongue and groove floating wood floors and find out whether this style of floor suits certain applications better than modern click lock designs.
This style of engineered wood flooring comes with formed edges that fit together using a tongue on one end of the board (thin piece projecting from the board’s edge) and a groove on the other (formed to hold the opposing tongue in place).
Fitting the floorboards or planks together is easy enough, but you’ll need to use adhesive to secure the fit. Solid hardwood often comes in this design, as do other types of building materials like exterior wood siding.
Pros
Tongue and groove is a traditional design that appeals to a broad range of homeowners and flooring installers. You’ll find a wide variety of brands and finishes in this style, as this has quickly become the preferred design for flooring manufacturers due to the wide application.
Use this style of flooring over a small area if you’re making the jump from carpet to wood. It’s economical and relatively easy to float over the subfloor of a limited space. Entranceways, hallways, and home offices work well with tongue & groove products.
Cons
Repairs on tongue & groove wood floors can be tricky, considering the floor panels or planks are actually glued together for stability. Floating floors do not adhere to the subfloor, but in order to replace or repair a board in the middle of your flooring, the installer will often need to break apart multiple pieces to get access.
Installing tongue and groove styles also take longer, which can increase the price of this project if you’re hiring a professional installation crew. DIY flooring jobs with T&G wood floors can be successful if you put in the time and effort.
The installation process of tongue and groove floors can have some pitfalls such as skimping on the glue to avoid a mess. If too little glue is used, the planks may separate over time leaving your wood floor looking sloppy. Tongue and groove floating wood floors still have a place in the industry and offers a dependable finish on your new wood floor. Look at part 1 of the article for more information regarding click lock floors.
Looking for a floating floor for your next project? Visit our engineered selection.