Browse Forums Flooring & Floor Covering Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 49Jun 11, 2018 8:10 pm Hi, It just so happens our company has pretty much moved over to pulling up tiles, so I can give you quite a bit of information on that subject. In all honesty, nobody should be asserting anything about what the concrete will require after the tiles have been lifted, because it varies a lot. It depends on the type of tile adhesive used (rubbery flexible or cementitious type), the condition of said adhesive (as to whether it still grips the tiles or not), and the condition of the concrete underneath (some slabs have a soft top surface). It also depends on the tile removalist as to the equipment they use. If they use hand held jackhammers with solid steel blades, the concrete may need serious remedial work. On the other hand, if they use a Makinex trolley with a flexible steel blade (as pictured below), then a diamond grind should suffice. Like ⋅ Add a comment ⋅ Pin to Ideaboard ⋅ As you can see in the picture, the tile adhesive had let go of the tiles on this job, and we just had to grind it off with no filler required. When it's ground, the old adhesive acts as a filler in the low spots, and we've had no issue installing over a surface like that. If the tiles are well stuck, on the other hand, the top of the concrete may get removed in patches, leaving a cratered surface that will require patch work. I would recommend that you get details of the stripping company that will do the rip up and grind, and talk to them about their standards and equipment. I know there's a lot of variation in quality and price on the Sunshine Coast, somehow I doubt the Downs would be that different. I always recommend people talk to the person who will do the job, not just the store selling the product. That way you can judge for yourself whether you will get a quality job or not. As to myself doing the install, I've just returned home from a 3 month stint on a nursing home project in Warwick, and away work is not a good subject around here at the moment, You may not remember a good job, but you will never forget a bad one. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 50Jan 17, 2019 4:14 pm GaryE - this thread is about 6 months old so I am not sure if you are still looking at it! However, if you are, just wondering what your thoughts are on Hybrid flooring versus Vinyl Planks. We currently have carpet and tiles so we know these have to come up and that's fine with us. I have had one supplier who suggested that Hybrid is the way to go as it has a timber look and feel and is higher quality product. Have been looking at the Aspire range from Preference. Another supplier has said that whilst they sell hybrid flooring they only do so as a supply not as an installation option. Both companies do the removal and prepping of the floor as well as the installation - a one stop shop option. I am thinking that this is a better option that getting two different suppliers - one to rip up flooring and the other to supply & install. Would like to know your thoughts. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 51Jan 17, 2019 5:03 pm Hi Nellie, yes, I still keep an eye open here. The differences between Hybrid and vinyl planks are as follows: LVT (luxury vinyl planks) are glued to the floor and come in two varieties, 2mm to 3mm "Direct Stick" planks and 4.5mm to 5mm fibreglass reinforced "Loose Lay" planks. The loose lay name is a misnomer, as in Australia even these planks must be installed using a full spread of pressure sensitive adhesive, while direct stick planks require a hard set adhesive. Both types require a solid surface - concrete, tongue and groove timber, plywood or chipboard. They also require Masonite underlay if going over tongue and groove. Their main advantage is they are a component product, meaning individual planks can be removed and replaced, or areas can be renovated and have extra planks added on to the existing field. They are also cut tight to skirting boards and require no scotia or replacement skirtings. Hybrid flooring is a newer product (planks have been around since the 80's, hybrids since about 2010), and is gaining popularity fast. They have the same top surface as planks, with a PVC wear layer. They also have a non-timber composite backing, which eliminates the distortion and "Cupping" associated with other floating types of flooring. As they are not glued to the floor, the sub-floor may comprise of any type of surface you may have: ceramics, cork, terrazzo, whatever. Being a click together flooring, you cannot replace individual boards, and as they are PVC (and will expand and contract) they must have a 5mm gap around the walls, which is covered by a scotia trim, or skirtings must be replaced. Both products must be installed on a flat, even surface, and neither can be installed over any irregularities, regardless of what you may be told. I would definitely recommend you use the "One stop shop", as opposed to multiple parties. Accountability rests in one place, which means the guys doing the prep work will do it properly and any problems will see you dealing with one set of people with no finger pointing. I hope I have covered this properly, any further queries, please don't hesitate to ask. You may not remember a good job, but you will never forget a bad one. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 52Jan 28, 2019 10:01 am GaryE Hi Nellie, yes, I still keep an eye open here. The differences between Hybrid and vinyl planks are as follows: LVT (luxury vinyl planks) are glued to the floor and come in two varieties, 2mm to 3mm "Direct Stick" planks and 4.5mm to 5mm fibreglass reinforced "Loose Lay" planks. The loose lay name is a misnomer, as in Australia even these planks must be installed using a full spread of pressure sensitive adhesive, while direct stick planks require a hard set adhesive. Both types require a solid surface - concrete, tongue and groove timber, plywood or chipboard. They also require Masonite underlay if going over tongue and groove. Their main advantage is they are a component product, meaning individual planks can be removed and replaced, or areas can be renovated and have extra planks added on to the existing field. They are also cut tight to skirting boards and require no scotia or replacement skirtings. Hybrid flooring is a newer product (planks have been around since the 80's, hybrids since about 2010), and is gaining popularity fast. They have the same top surface as planks, with a PVC wear layer. They also have a non-timber composite backing, which eliminates the distortion and "Cupping" associated with other floating types of flooring. As they are not glued to the floor, the sub-floor may comprise of any type of surface you may have: ceramics, cork, terrazzo, whatever. Being a click together flooring, you cannot replace individual boards, and as they are PVC (and will expand and contract) they must have a 5mm gap around the walls, which is covered by a scotia trim, or skirtings must be replaced. Both products must be installed on a flat, even surface, and neither can be installed over any irregularities, regardless of what you may be told. I would definitely recommend you use the "One stop shop", as opposed to multiple parties. Accountability rests in one place, which means the guys doing the prep work will do it properly and any problems will see you dealing with one set of people with no finger pointing. I hope I have covered this properly, any further queries, please don't hesitate to ask. That’s very useful info and advice. 🤗 Can you recommend a hybrid floor or LVP which is very ‘authentic’ oak wood looking? I have been looking at a Proline hybrid floor in Stamford colour and may have to get a sample so I can see what it looks like in my own house. I don’t like the flooring which is obviously fake looking wood, but I don’t want the maintenance issues and high cost of an engineered wood floor. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 53Jan 29, 2019 6:30 am Hi Bebbsy, unfortunately, I don't install hybrid, so I'm not familiar with the various patterns and colours that are available. I suggest spending the time visiting the various retailers out there until you find a plank you're happy with. The biggest issue with this product at the moment is the connection system; some products have trouble with breakage on the end joins, which results in excessive movement. Avoid cheaper products if you don't want this issue. When considering patterns, I would advise avoiding a pattern with too many knots and grain features. These will be repeated across the floor, and can lead to disappointment with the overall effect. LVT planks have the same issue. You just need to ask for the pattern repeat number (this is the amount of different planks in the product) the more the better. Engineered timber is a lovely product, but I agree that cost and ongoing maintenance do not make it very practical. I apologize that this is a little out of my area of expertise, but hopefully this is of some use to you. You may not remember a good job, but you will never forget a bad one. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 54Jan 29, 2019 9:14 am Hi GaryE Thank you for your advice and since my post I have learnt more about flooring than I thought I ever would or needed to. Unfortunately I have found that lots of flooring specialists tell you what they want to hear and back track quickly when you question them on a product that you learnt a bit more about either from the supplier, competitors or through lots of research. I find that some don't want to tell you everything but then when you ask they admit some of the issues that have been experienced. I have also found that learning from installers is also a great way of learning more compared to what the salesman in the showroom will give. So thank you for your commentary. It has been a useful starting point to my research and questions! Cheers Narelle Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 56Jan 29, 2019 9:23 am Bebbsy GaryE Hi Nellie, yes, I still keep an eye open here. The differences between Hybrid and vinyl planks are as follows: LVT (luxury vinyl planks) are glued to the floor and come in two varieties, 2mm to 3mm "Direct Stick" planks and 4.5mm to 5mm fibreglass reinforced "Loose Lay" planks. The loose lay name is a misnomer, as in Australia even these planks must be installed using a full spread of pressure sensitive adhesive, while direct stick planks require a hard set adhesive. Both types require a solid surface - concrete, tongue and groove timber, plywood or chipboard. They also require Masonite underlay if going over tongue and groove. Their main advantage is they are a component product, meaning individual planks can be removed and replaced, or areas can be renovated and have extra planks added on to the existing field. They are also cut tight to skirting boards and require no scotia or replacement skirtings. Hybrid flooring is a newer product (planks have been around since the 80's, hybrids since about 2010), and is gaining popularity fast. They have the same top surface as planks, with a PVC wear layer. They also have a non-timber composite backing, which eliminates the distortion and "Cupping" associated with other floating types of flooring. As they are not glued to the floor, the sub-floor may comprise of any type of surface you may have: ceramics, cork, terrazzo, whatever. Being a click together flooring, you cannot replace individual boards, and as they are PVC (and will expand and contract) they must have a 5mm gap around the walls, which is covered by a scotia trim, or skirtings must be replaced. Both products must be installed on a flat, even surface, and neither can be installed over any irregularities, regardless of what you may be told. I would definitely recommend you use the "One stop shop", as opposed to multiple parties. Accountability rests in one place, which means the guys doing the prep work will do it properly and any problems will see you dealing with one set of people with no finger pointing. I hope I have covered this properly, any further queries, please don't hesitate to ask. That’s very useful info and advice. 🤗 Can you recommend a hybrid floor or LVP which is very ‘authentic’ oak wood looking? I have been looking at a Proline hybrid floor in Stamford colour and may have to get a sample so I can see what it looks like in my own house. I don’t like the flooring which is obviously fake looking wood, but I don’t want the maintenance issues and high cost of an engineered wood floor. Hi Bebbsy My husband and I are seriously considering putting down hybrid flooring because like you would like a more natural look. Having said that I have learnt that there is a some terrible hybrid floors and not all hybrid floors are equal. That is, make sure you ask where their product is manufactured. I have learnt that those made in China are a lot cheaper and have more issues. Products from South Korea are far more superior but also come with a higher price. There are a few videos on line if you google this issue prepared by flooring specialists. So on that basis, shop around and research companies who make the flooring and then sell to the installers. The other thing I found is that many say that flooring can be put over the top of tiles etc. Be careful as ultimately the finish could be compromised subject to what your current floor is like. Ask to speak to the installer if you can rather than the salesperson as they will tell you what they find and what works best for your product. Good luck! Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 57Jan 29, 2019 11:04 am NellieB Bebbsy GaryE Hi Nellie, yes, I still keep an eye open here. The differences between Hybrid and vinyl planks are as follows: LVT (luxury vinyl planks) are glued to the floor and come in two varieties, 2mm to 3mm "Direct Stick" planks and 4.5mm to 5mm fibreglass reinforced "Loose Lay" planks. The loose lay name is a misnomer, as in Australia even these planks must be installed using a full spread of pressure sensitive adhesive, while direct stick planks require a hard set adhesive. Both types require a solid surface - concrete, tongue and groove timber, plywood or chipboard. They also require Masonite underlay if going over tongue and groove. Their main advantage is they are a component product, meaning individual planks can be removed and replaced, or areas can be renovated and have extra planks added on to the existing field. They are also cut tight to skirting boards and require no scotia or replacement skirtings. Hybrid flooring is a newer product (planks have been around since the 80's, hybrids since about 2010), and is gaining popularity fast. They have the same top surface as planks, with a PVC wear layer. They also have a non-timber composite backing, which eliminates the distortion and "Cupping" associated with other floating types of flooring. As they are not glued to the floor, the sub-floor may comprise of any type of surface you may have: ceramics, cork, terrazzo, whatever. Being a click together flooring, you cannot replace individual boards, and as they are PVC (and will expand and contract) they must have a 5mm gap around the walls, which is covered by a scotia trim, or skirtings must be replaced. Both products must be installed on a flat, even surface, and neither can be installed over any irregularities, regardless of what you may be told. I would definitely recommend you use the "One stop shop", as opposed to multiple parties. Accountability rests in one place, which means the guys doing the prep work will do it properly and any problems will see you dealing with one set of people with no finger pointing. I hope I have covered this properly, any further queries, please don't hesitate to ask. That’s very useful info and advice. 🤗 Can you recommend a hybrid floor or LVP which is very ‘authentic’ oak wood looking? I have been looking at a Proline hybrid floor in Stamford colour and may have to get a sample so I can see what it looks like in my own house. I don’t like the flooring which is obviously fake looking wood, but I don’t want the maintenance issues and high cost of an engineered wood floor. Hi Bebbsy My husband and I are seriously considering putting down hybrid flooring because like you would like a more natural look. Having said that I have learnt that there is a some terrible hybrid floors and not all hybrid floors are equal. That is, make sure you ask where their product is manufactured. I have learnt that those made in China are a lot cheaper and have more issues. Products from South Korea are far more superior but also come with a higher price. There are a few videos on line if you google this issue prepared by flooring specialists. So on that basis, shop around and research companies who make the flooring and then sell to the installers. The other thing I found is that many say that flooring can be put over the top of tiles etc. Be careful as ultimately the finish could be compromised subject to what your current floor is like. Ask to speak to the installer if you can rather than the salesperson as they will tell you what they find and what works best for your product. Good luck! Hi NellieB I agree that not all hybrid floors are equal, but there are so many to choose from it is difficult to compare because a lot retailers sell different brands and say how great they are. I’ve also asked the question where the product is made, and most of the time the salesperson says they have no idea, or just gives me a brochure which does not provide that detail either. I have looked st a lot of different companies, and have narrowed down to two - hybrid flooring in the Proline Floors rigid plank range and also the Godfrey Hirst Napier range. (Godfrey Hirst has some negative comments on Product Review.) We are building a new house so don’t have the issue of laying over tiles etc. I’ve told the builder we need a good flat finish to our concrete floors so it is a level base for the flooring. How are you going with your own search, is there a product you prefer? Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 58Jan 29, 2019 6:02 pm I'll toss in my two cents here, though as I stated earlier I don't install hybrid. NellieB is spot on about S.Korea vs China. Even large manufacturers have had issues with Chinese manufacturers, especially when it comes to sourcing plastics and other ingredients, with inferior materials being substituted for specified ones. S.Korean products are much better controlled, and it's interesting to note that S.Korea actually ranked second only to Germany for innovation in the past year, according to a recent survey. I can personally endorse Karndean products, they are the recognized market leader in quality, although that is reflected in their price tags. I would personally steer clear of any product which does not state it is manufactured in Korea; if they don't say, it's probably China. Also, Bebbsy, I would recommend you tell your builder your subfloor will need to meet the Australian standard for hybrid flooring, which is no more than a 3mm variation over 2m. If the installer is any good, he's going to run a 2m straight edge over the whole floor, and insist on filling and/or grinding anywhere that doesn't suit. You may not remember a good job, but you will never forget a bad one. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 59Jan 29, 2019 6:21 pm GaryE I'll toss in my two cents here, though as I stated earlier I don't install hybrid. NellieB is spot on about S.Korea vs China. Even large manufacturers have had issues with Chinese manufacturers, especially when it comes to sourcing plastics and other ingredients, with inferior materials being substituted for specified ones. S.Korean products are much better controlled, and it's interesting to note that S.Korea actually ranked second only to Germany for innovation in the past year, according to a recent survey. I can personally endorse Karndean products, they are the recognized market leader in quality, although that is reflected in their price tags. I would personally steer clear of any product which does not state it is manufactured in Korea; if they don't say, it's probably China. Also, Bebbsy, I would recommend you tell your builder your subfloor will need to meet the Australian standard for hybrid flooring, which is no more than a 3mm variation over 2m. If the installer is any good, he's going to run a 2m straight edge over the whole floor, and insist on filling and/or grinding anywhere that doesn't suit. Cheers GaryE I will take your advice about the subfloor. I got an email back today from Godfrey a Hirst confirming their hybrid flooring is made in a China. That has put me off I have to say. On the other hand Karndean has some very bad consumer reviews on a Product Review, so it seems there are issues no matter who you select. I actually found another hybrid floor today that I also like, and which I will research further. It’s a product made by Kenbrock and having seen it laid, was very impressed with the realistic appearance of the planks. Re: Vinyl Plank Flooring Questions Answered 60Jan 30, 2019 6:43 pm Bebbsy, Kenbrock are a good company, too. I worked with them for years when I was doing design floors and consultancy work. They have a strong commitment to customer service and I know from personal experience they care about product quality. Best of luck with your project, I hope it works out well. You may not remember a good job, but you will never forget a bad one. Hi l plan to install a self adhesive vinyl plank floor. l first need to attach masonite boards underlay to by plywood subfloor of my house. 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