The decision has been made: a new floor is coming. But as soon as you start looking, you're bombarded with technical terms. Do you choose a traditional laminate floor, flexible PVC planks, or the immensely popular PVC herringbone? And what on earth is the difference between 'Rigid click' and 'Glue-down (dryback)'?
At Bouwshop Utrecht, we understand that you can't see the forest for the trees. A floor is an investment for years; it should not only look beautiful but also be perfectly installed. In this guide, we explain in understandable language what you should pay attention to and how to arrange everything seamlessly in one go.
1. The great debate: PVC floor vs. Laminate floor
Although both optically resemble real wood, they are completely different products:
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The Laminate floor: Consists of compressed wood panels with a synthetic top layer. It's budget-friendly, scratch-resistant, and ideal for bedrooms. The downside? It's less fond of moisture and can 'clatter' if there isn't a good subfloor underneath.
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The PVC floor: Made of high-quality plastic. This means the floor is 100% waterproof (ideal for the kitchen or bathroom), extremely quiet when walked on, and the absolute king in conducting underfloor heating.
2. Rigid Click vs. Glue-down (Dryback) PVC: What's the difference?
If you opt for a PVC floor (whether it's straight PVC planks or a PVC herringbone pattern), you'll encounter two installation methods. This is the biggest choice point for consumers:
Glue-down PVC (Dryback)
These are thin, flexible strips (usually around 2.5 mm thick) that are glued directly to the subfloor.
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The advantage: It offers the highest efficiency for underfloor heating, and you don't need skirting boards because it fits snugly against the wall.
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The pitfall: Your screed must be absolutely mirror-smooth. Every imperfection or grain of sand will immediately show through the PVC. Leveling is an absolute must here.
Rigid Click PVC (SPC)
This is the modern variant. This floor has a hard, stable intermediate layer (often made of stone composite, also known as SPC) and a click connection.
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The advantage: The floor is extremely strong and can be laid floating over slight imperfections. Many variants even have an integrated underlay.
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The pitfall: Although it seems easier to install, a stable, dry base and the correct expansion joint (movement space) remain crucial to prevent the click connections from breaking over time.
3. Our Best-Sellers: Favorites in Utrecht
Looking for inspiration? These are the absolute favorites and best-sellers from our assortment that you can perfectly combine with our professional installation service:
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Oneflor Soft Oak Greige Herringbone PVC Rigid Click: The perfect 'greige' shade (between grey and beige) that instantly adds warmth to any modern interior.
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OTIUM Calm Herringbone SPC Rigid PVC Herringbone: A beautiful, 6 mm thick floor including an integrated underlay and an ultra-matte finish, making it indistinguishable from real wood.
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Oneflor Sawcut Oak Natural Herringbone PVC Rigid Click: For those who love the robust, natural look of sawn oak.
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Beautifloor Click Vinyl Regione Veneto PVC: A highly reliable, stylish, and comfortable choice for high-traffic areas.
Everything under one roof at Bouwshop Utrecht: Buy your floor and have it installed!
Buying a beautiful floor is step one. But did you know that a floor only truly becomes beautiful through the craftsmanship with which it is installed? Especially with a PVC herringbone, precision is key. One steering error at the beginning and your entire herringbone pattern will run crooked at the end of the room.
At Bouwshop Utrecht, we believe in everything under one roof. You don't have to struggle with glue, cutting knives, or heavy packages yourself, nor do you have to look for an external freelancer who only has time in six months.
More than 20 years of experience in finishing & maintenance
Behind our building supply store is our own renowned contracting company: ZAHR & Zonen B.V. (formerly known as Algebra Klus & Onderhoud). With more than 20 years of experience in the complete finishing and maintenance of homes and commercial buildings, our craftsmen know exactly how to prepare, level, and deliver a floor. We don't do half measures; we ensure that your subfloor meets all requirements so that you maintain the maximum warranty on your floor.
Want to enjoy your new floor carefree? Leave the heavy lifting, leveling, and precise installation to the professionals at ZAHR & Zonen B.V. Request a no-obligation quote directly via our flooring installation quote page and discover how easy it is when everything is arranged under one roof!
