Dryback vs Click System LVT: Which Is Better for Your Home When Hiring a Pro?

If you’ve decided to install Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring in your home and you’re hiring a professional for the job, great decision! LVT is durable, stylish, and perfect for modern homes. But now you’re faced with one more important choice: Dryback (glue-down) or Click system?

Both options have their pros and cons, and while you’re leaving the installation to the pros, choosing the right type for your space is still up to you. This guide will help you make a confident decision based on your needs, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

What’s the Difference?

• Dryback (Glue-Down) LVT is adhered directly to the subfloor using a strong adhesive. It creates a permanent, stable bond that feels very solid underfoot.

• Click System LVT uses a locking mechanism to snap planks together. It floats over the subfloor without the need for glue, making it a quicker install.

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Why the Installation Method Matters

Even if a professional is doing the work, the type of LVT you choose can still impact:

• Installation time

• Labor costs

• Performance underfoot

• Future maintenance or repairs

  
  

Let’s take a closer look.

Dryback (Glue-Down) LVT: Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• Superior Stability: Once installed, glue-down LVT is extremely stable and won’t shift over time.

• Ideal for High-Traffic Areas: Perfect for kitchens, hallways, and larger open spaces where durability and firm footing are a priority.

• Lower Profile: Dryback LVT is typically thinner than click systems, making it a great option where height matters (like around doors, appliances, or transitions).

• Quiet Underfoot: No hollow or clicking sounds when walked on.

  
  

Considerations:

• More Time-Consuming to Install: Because it requires adhesive and precision placement, installation takes longer, and that usually means higher labor costs.

• Harder to Replace: If a plank gets damaged later, you may need a pro to cut it out and glue a new one in.

• Subfloor Must Be Perfectly Smooth: Uneven subfloors can cause problems with adhesion and appearance.

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Click System LVT: Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• Faster Installation: Click LVT can be installed more quickly, which may lower overall labor costs.

• Easier Maintenance: If a plank ever gets damaged, it’s often easier to remove and replace without cutting or gluing.

• Subfloor Flexibility: While a smooth subfloor is still ideal, click systems can handle minor imperfections better than glue-down.

• Great for Living Areas & Bedrooms: Ideal in rooms where foot traffic is moderate and you want installation to be less intrusive.

  
  

Considerations:

• Slightly Thicker Profile: This can be a concern in areas with door clearance or transitions to other flooring.

• Less “Anchored” Feel: Some homeowners find that floating floors don’t feel quite as solid as glued-down options.

  
  

So, Which One Should You Choose?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the “better” option depends on your priorities:

If You Want...	Choose...
A rock-solid, permanent feel	Dryback (Glue-Down)
Lower profile for door clearance	Dryback (Glue-Down)
Quieter floor with no click sounds	Dryback (Glue-Down)
Faster install with less mess	Click System
Easier future plank replacement	Click System
Some flexibility in subfloor prep	Click System

Final Thoughts

Both Dryback and Click System LVT are excellent flooring choices, especially when installed by a skilled professional. It really comes down to how you want your floor to feel, how it fits into your home’s layout, and how important long-term maintenance is to you.

Still unsure? Talk to us about the specific rooms you're renovating, subfloor conditions, and any future plans for your space. A good flooring pro can help steer you toward the best option based on your goals.

Need help deciding on a style or brand? Let us know your vision and, we’re happy to help!

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