Luxury vinyl floors with magnetic attachment technology is one of the newest, and most attractive types of flooring. (See what we did here!) Learn more about one of the biggest advancements in luxury vinyl flooring, and how it can work for your industrial or commercial installation.

What is a magnetic flooring system?

Magnetic flooring systems are true game changers! They feature a two-part installation system, starting with a magnetic underlayment. This layer is installed over the sub-floor, providing a magnetic base for the floors. Then luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl planks (LVP), which feature a receptor to attract and attach to the base, are installed on top.

What is LVT and LVP flooring?

If you are considering a magnetic flooring system, it’s important to first learn the advantages of LVT and LVP flooring. Available in a wide range of styles, including stunningly realistic wood and tile looks, and offered in traditional, contemporary, rustic and many other looks, there’s an LVT solution for almost any room. However, it’s not all looks and no show. LVT and LVP flooring offers many performance advantages. It’s rugged and moisture resistant. It resists peeling and cracking. It won’t hold dust and allergens like carpets, and it’s warm and comfortable underfoot compared with many other hard flooring solutions. It’s also very affordable compared to real hardwood and stone, with very similar aesthetics.

What are the advantages of magnetic flooring?

One of the main advantages of magnetic LVT and LVP flooring is easy installation. It’s true, this technology can significantly decrease installation time compared with glue-down or locking floors. However, that’s not where it ends. Performance advantages over traditional LVT and LVP flooring come from the magnetic underlayment. This layer is strong! It can hold the floors in place, even under heavy traffic. Plus, it can serve as a moisture barrier. This means that magnetic flooring can be used in high traffic and often problematic areas, including commercial buildings as well as high moisture areas. It also eradicates the need for other underlayment systems, resulting in simplification and cost savings. Further, the magnetic layer can help suppress cracks, which can minimize flooring prep costs.

What about when it’s time for new flooring? These strength and cost advantages don’t just end. The magnetic attachment can be reused, again reducing time, labor and overall costs.

Is magnetic flooring safe?

The short answer is, yes. In fact, maybe even more so than other flooring solutions. First off, there isn’t a need to worry about large magnets in your floors interfering with your day to day life. Computers and other electronics are not affected by magnetic flooring systems. Neither are electronic implant devices, like pacemakers.

The magnetic technology also eliminates smelly adhesives, and the VOCs that come along with them. This can result in cost savings but, more importantly, can lead to better indoor air quality. You can further look for a FloorScore® Certified product, for reassurance of promoting better indoor air quality.

How are magnetic floors installed?

These floors are designed for floating installations, using the magnetic underlayment. As a floating floor system, it must be allowed to expand and contract as needed. This means, it shouldn’t be glued or nailed down. Here are the main steps:

• Prepare the job site: Make sure your tiles are from the same run, acclimate materials at the specified temperatures and humidity. You should check the substrate for moisture, and check the substrate for flatness. You can fill cracks if needed.
• Clean up the job site: Get out the broom, get to work, and you’re ready to go.
• Install the magnetic under layer: This simply rolls out, magnetic side up. Read instructions for use of tape and additional details.
• Install the first row of planks or tiles: Generally, you’ll want to start in the middle and work towards the perimeter. Maintain the expansion space along the perimeter.
• Finishing touches: Cover the expansion space with trim.

You should always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for full installation information that is specific to each brand.

Where can magnetic LVT and LVP flooring systems be installed?

From retail and healthcare to commercial buildings, these floors are durable enough to withstand heavy traffic, and they are easy to maintain. These same qualities—like moisture resistance and strength—also make them ideal for residential homes, even in tricky spots like bathrooms, kitchens and basements.

With the wide variety of styles available, high performance, and easy installation, you can choose a magnetic flooring system and get it installed in a (magnetic) snap!