A vinyl butt joint is better than a tongue and groove joint assembly when it comes to DIY flooring solutions, and in this post we’ll explain why. But first, a definition of each type of joint for those who aren’t familiar with what these terms mean.
Butt Joint
A butt joint is simply the method of butting two pieces of flooring tightly together. For example, you cut two lengths of plank with perfectly straight edges and butt them up against each other, side by side or end to end. This forms a very neat and tidy joint, and also allows the freedom to be able to remove a piece in future if it needs replacing.
Tongue and Groove Joint
This type of joint requires a groove to be cut in one edge, and have an extruding edge (the tongue) in the adjoining piece. The tongue and groove joint creates quite a strong bond, and allows for a totally glue-less and tape-less installation.
Why a Butt Joint Is Better
When it comes to the vast array of vinyl flooring options available on today’s DIY market, the vinyl butt joint is considered superior to using the tongue and groove method for the following reasons:
The installation is simpler and faster, and it is far easier to remove and replace a piece of the vinyl flooring if butt joints are used as opposed to tongue and groove joints.
Changing planks around during laying to get the exact mix of colour or feature is possible.
When you are laying the flooring, the tongue and groove edges can be easily damaged, rendering that plank un-usable of for starter or end planks.
Both have benefits
Tongue and groove can provide a fully floating floor system and this may be preferred in some circumstances, especially when laying over tiles.
On the Gold Coast get in touch with the vinyl flooring experts at Integra Direct in Helensvale. With two decades of experience in this business, we’ll help bring your visions to life.