Page 39 - CFJ_LVT_Apr26

ADVICE & INFORMATION

Neil Sanders

Adhesives for LVTs

Neil explores modern adhesives with advanced features for installing LVTs, emphasising
the importance of matching properties to the specific project demands

he development of high-performance development of high performance water may collect. Nowadays, one-
Tadhesives for particular applications vinyl adhesives with revolutionary part, moisture-curing alternatives are
and types of floorcoverings means that a combinations of properties, including available that are easier to apply and
‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to adhesive temperature tolerance and pressure faster curing, as well as containing fibres
selection just doesn’t work for today’s sensitive characteristics. that provide high initial grab and limit
installers. Instead, selecting products For example, F. Ball’s Styccobond F49 lateral movement of floorcoverings
with specialist properties is beneficial Hybrid PS is a water-based, pressure when placed into the adhesive.
to ensure both ease of installation and sensitive vinyl adhesive that develops Fast-track formulations
long-term performance under specific the extremely high bond strength and Another way that innovations in
environmental conditions. dimensional stability required to hold pressure sensitive adhesives are
This is no more true than for LVT vinyl floorcoverings firmly in place in helping flooring contractors in particular
projects, where pressure sensitive areas exposed to extreme temperature situations is by shortening the time it
adhesives, which form an instant grab fluctuations (from -20°C to +60°C). takes to install floorcoverings, allowing
upon contact, mean tiles or planks won’t Styccobond F49 also has water them to meet challenges surrounding
shift as contractors work. They also resistant properties, meaning it is pressures to complete projects to ever
offer an extended open time, reducing suitable for use in areas subject to water more exacting time constraints.
the risk of late placement and making and high humidity, including kitchens and The fast-drying formulation of
them ideal for installations where more bathrooms. Styccobond F58 PLUS enables LVT tiles
complex designs or intricate patterns are and planks to be secured from just five
specified. Beyond ease of use, installers minutes, while fibres in the adhesive
must also consider how external factors, provide resistance to lateral movement,
like heat and moisture, will affect the preventing vinyl tiles and planks from
finished floor. moving around when working. An
Temperature tolerant requirements extended open time of around three
For example, when installing hours (depending on ambient conditions)
floorcoverings in areas subject to allows large areas of adhesive to be
extreme temperatures and temperature applied at once without risking late
fluctuations, it is advisable to use a placement of the floorcovering.
temperature tolerant adhesive. Checking floorcovering compatibility
High temperatures or extreme Apart from letting the specifics of a
temperature fluctuations can cause project determine adhesive selection,
floorcoverings to expand and contract I would always advise checking the
significantly. This can be the case in Water resistance compatibility of particular floorcoverings
conservatories or rooms with floor-to- For extremely wet conditions, where and adhesives. For these purposes,
ceiling windows, which are subject to floorcoverings will be subject to standing F. Ball produces its industry-leading
‘solar gain’, and may lead to unsightly water, such as entranceways, or even Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG).
tenting in floorcoverings and gapping at external environments, a fully water- It’s available on the F. Ball website
the edges of LVTs over time. resistant adhesive is essential. An and as a free app, as well as a printed
Temperature tolerant adhesives adhesive that isn’t water resistant may booklet. Alternatively, F. Ball’s technical
develop the high bond strength required break down and soften when it comes service department are on hand Monday
to hold floorcoverings securely in into contact with water, potentially to Friday, 8.30am – 5.00pm, to answer
place in such environments, ensuring causing floorcoverings to bubble or de- your questions about F. Ball products
a long-lasting flooring finish. However, bond. and how to use them. Contractors can
these have traditionally been ‘wet-lay’, Epoxy or polyurethane-based also consult floorcovering manufacturers
and contractors requiring this type of adhesives have long been the only for advice. 
adhesive have had to forgo pressure option for such installations. These 01538 361633
sensitive benefits. adhesives are highly effective at making mail@f-ball.co.uk
Hybrid solutions areas impermeable to water, so they www.f-ball.com/en/
In recent years, advancements in hybrid are also suitable for installing vinyl Neil Sanders is technical service manager
polymer adhesives have enabled the floorcoverings outdoors where surface at F. Ball and Co.

www.contractflooringjournal.co.uk 39
@CFJMagazine LVT April 2026