After introducing 14 colors from our Van Gogh gluedown LVT range in an additional rigid core format earlier this year, we have frequently been asked questions like “which one is better” or “how do I know what’s right for me?” Typically, we advise that if you want the ability to personalize your floor with different laying patterns or design strips, you should choose gluedown. Conversely, if you want a product that can go over your existing hard floor or need a product with additional acoustic benefits, choose rigid core.
A third option is to use both formats in your home. Using gluedown and rigid core allows you to take advantage of the best benefits of each format – all while enjoying color continuity from room to room. Here’s our recommendations for using Van Gogh gluedown and rigid core in different areas of your home.
Ground Level: Gluedown
The ground level of your home is where guests enter and are entertained, where holiday dinners are held, and where you gather with friends for a casual cup of coffee. You have undoubtedly put a lot of thought into the overall design of these spaces, from the countertop to the color palette. Creating a flooring layout that ties all the elements of the space together adds a final finishing touch.
Van Gogh gluedown Reclaimed Redwood VGW99T laid in a herringbone pattern shown with (left) and without (right) 3mm Chalk design strips
Van Gogh gluedown planks offer a high level of personalization. Unlike hardwood floors, you can choose the direction the planks are installed. In addition, you have the options to incorporate pattern and/or design strips. In the entryway shown above, we chose a herringbone pattern to make the space appear to be wider. By adding design strips between the planks (above left), the floor takes on a grouted look and a more upscale feel; without design strips, the floor is more subtle and casual.
Upper Levels: Rigid Core
One of the key benefits of Van Gogh rigid core products are the acoustics. Van Gogh rigid core planks have an attached underlayment that helps to reduce noise transfer to the room below, like footsteps for example. The days of hearing the kids or dogs running up and down the hall from the living room or kitchen can be a thing of the past.
Van Gogh rigid core blend of Reclaimed Redwood SCB99 and Aged Redwood SCB100
Although Van Gogh rigid has fewer layout options than gluedown, you still have design flexibility. You can still lay the planks on a 45° angle or blend different colored planks into one design (shown above). Another benefit to rigid core is its quick installation over existing hard floors, so your kids won’t need to camp out in your bedroom for too long!
Of course, the choice is ultimately yours and there is no right or wrong answer. It all comes down to what you are hoping to achieve with your new floor. But sometimes, it’s nice to know that you can have the best of both worlds! Try your Van Gogh gluedown and rigid core designs out on our digital design tool, Floorstyle!