Adhesive Types for Parquet Flooring

Water-Based

• Water-based adhesives are environmentally friendly. Virtually odor-free, water-based adhesives are an excellent choice for homes with small children, pets or allergy sufferers. However, they are not effective for all situations. Water-based adhesives work best in low-moisture environments. Carefully read the manufacturer's instructions bundled with your parquet flooring to ensure that the parquet can withstand a water-based adhesive. Prepare the subfloor with a moisture barrier before laying the floor.

Powder

• Powder adhesives are mixed with water before applying. The main advantage to powder is that is easier to transport, since the water weight is not added until just before application. Powder adhesives are strong and may be less likely than water-based adhesives to cause wood swelling. Prepare the subfloor as you would for a water-based adhesive.

Solvent-Based

• Solvent-based adhesives are strong, reasonably impervious to moisture, and easy to use. However, they emit volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which are generally unpleasant to smell. VOCs can also cause headaches and breathing problems, particularly in allergy sufferers. However, the effects are short-lived. Open all windows in the room and use a fan to remove fumes. Allow one to two weeks for the room to air out before replacing furniture.

Self-Stick

• Self-stick parquet flooring is prepared by the manufacturer with an adhesive backing. The installation process is easier and less messy than installing traditional parquet. However, the tiles have smooth edges rather than tongue-in-groove. If the subfloor is not perfectly flat, or the tiles are slightly misaligned, the floor could look bumpy or even show gaps between the tiles. Prepare the subfloor carefully to ensure a perfectly flat surface, and use extra caution when laying out the parquet tiles.