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When do you choose which PVC floor?

by Jorik van der Heide on Feb 04, 2026

In the showroom, we hear this question almost daily: which PVC floor suits my situation? Glue-down PVC, click PVC, and loose lay PVC each have their own advantages. The right choice depends on your subfloor, living situation, budget, and how intensively the space is used. In this article, we calmly and practically explain when to choose which PVC floor.

The three types of PVC flooring explained briefly

Before we advise per situation, it's useful to have a clear understanding of the differences between the PVC floor types.

Glue-down PVC

Glue-down PVC is directly adhered to a levelled subfloor. The result is a sleek, quiet floor with a very natural appearance. This type of PVC is often seen in new-build homes and renovations where the base can be well prepared.

Click PVC

Click PVC consists of planks with a click system and is installed floating. It resembles laminate but feels warmer and is quieter. Click PVC is popular for renovations and in homes where quick installation is needed.

Loose lay PVC

Loose lay PVC lies loosely on the subfloor and stays in place due to its own weight and non-slip backing. This type is mainly used in commercial spaces or temporary situations, but also increasingly in homes.

When do you choose glue-down PVC?

Glue-down PVC is the best choice when:

you have a completely even subfloor or want to have it levelled;
you are looking for a sleek, luxurious appearance;
you want minimal walking noise;
you have underfloor heating or plan to install it.

Because glue-down PVC is thin and fully adhered, it works excellently with underfloor heating. Heat is efficiently transferred, and the floor feels comfortable.

When is click PVC the right choice?

Click PVC is a good fit if:

you prefer not to level or glue;
you live in an apartment and want quick results;
you might want to take the floor with you later;
the subfloor is slightly uneven.

Keep in mind that click PVC is slightly thicker than glue-down PVC. With underfloor heating, it still works well, but heat transfer is slightly less efficient.

When do you choose loose lay PVC?

Loose lay PVC is suitable when:

you are looking for a floor that is quick to install and remove;
the space is intensively used, such as an office or shop;
you value flexibility more than a permanent installation.

In living rooms and bedrooms, loose lay PVC is less commonly used, but in apartments or temporary housing solutions, it can be a practical choice.

Which PVC floor suits your home?

In a new-build home with underfloor heating, glue-down PVC is usually the best choice. In an apartment or existing home without major renovations, click PVC is often more practical. If you're looking for maximum flexibility, loose lay PVC can offer a solution.

Still in doubt? Then it's wise to see and feel different floors in real life. In our showroom, we will look together at your situation, subfloor, and living preferences.