Magnetic Flooring Is New

With the flooring market always changing, sometimes it's hard to keep up with the latest technology. Magnetic flooring has become more popular due to its easy installation and features on home improvement shows. You may have some questions about what to expect from this newer product. Here at Georgia Carpet, we want to give you all the information you might need to decide on your floors. Below are some FAQs, along with a pros and cons list that summarizes what to expect with magnetic flooring.

One of the main questions about magnetic flooring is its effects on electronics. Will it harm my phone? Computer?

Luckily, these magnets have been thoroughly tested and are not strong enough to create issues for your electronics. Not even pacemakers or credit cards. While the magnetism is low, that does not mean it's ineffective in holding your planks into place. The combination of magnets and the weight of the planks/tiles keep it from shifting or sliding around.

Another question you might be asking yourself is how do I install this flooring? Is it different from any other floating flooring?

Magnetic flooring is a bit different from your typical floating flooring. It doesn’t have a click system that you see in a lot of engineered hardwood and vinyl planks. Instead, the backs of the planks have iron traces infused throughout that adhere to the magnets in the underlayment; no glue or adhesive chemicals are needed. So while this doesn’t necessarily “click” together, you do lay it out similarly. You can easily change your floor whenever you desire, perfect for replacing a single damaged tile without having to lift an entire section. With beveled flooring, replacing a single plank can be a bit precarious as the bevels can snap. Installation in any shaped area is simple, as you can cut planks to size with a box cutter. Out of all flooring installations, this will be the easiest for sure!

You may be thinking, how secure is this flooring? Does it give me the same durability and protection as vinyl or laminate?

The short answer is yes! Even though this flooring is newer to the market, the magnetic adhesion feature is in no way lesser in performance or strength than other conventional floors. In fact, magnetic flooring like MetroFlor Attraxion is built for commercial use. Its planks are waterproof and can withstand up to 900 lbs/PSI. Essentially you can drive a forklift over it with no issues. To aid with waterproofing, you can also purchase special tape for the underlayment to give you more security. The waterproof feature of this flooring is excellent, especially if you ever experience flooding. You simply pick up the planks, dry them off, roll up the underlayment, and once your subfloor has dried out, you are good to put your flooring back!

So what are the advantages and disadvantages of magnetic flooring?

Disadvantages

-Flooring cost is higher

The magnetic features make this flooring more costly than standard laminate or synthetic flooring. That said, you save a lot on installation costs, like hiring someone plus adhesives. This floor you can install all by yourself; no need for anything except your flooring, underlayment, measuring tape, and a box cutter!

-Fewer design options

Since magnetic flooring is new to the market, limited visuals are available. There are plenty of traditional styles to choose from, so there is no need to worry just yet.

-Uncertain future in the market

The flooring industry is constantly evolving, and with new products, there is a bit of uncertainty. The next bigger, better thing may come along. Technology could take magnetic flooring in a whole new direction.

Advantages

-Easy to install

The main selling point with magnetic flooring is that anyone can install it. It’s as simple as rolling out the underlayment and placing the planks or tiles in a layout that suits your decor.

-Easily replaceable

With such an easy installation comes even easier repairs. If a portion of your floor has any damage or you feel like redesigning a little, it's simple to make a change. You can quickly take out a plank or tile and stick another down. There is no need to worry about whether the pieces will click together right or straining to pry out a plank.

-Eliminates the need for glue

While not needing glue or adhesive might be seen as an advantage in terms of installation, it is also a plus for the environment and you! Glue and other chemical adhesives can create harmful VOCs that affect air quality and worsen flooring disposal for the environment. Without glue, you get lower VOCs and even save money on installation costs.

Hopefully, we’ve helped you better understand this up-and-coming flooring. Much of the beauty of magnetic flooring is its simplicity and effectiveness. The final determination of this flooring’s popularity rests on you and other flooring installers. Is it something you can see yourself using and loving? You won’t know until you try! Check out the complete collection here at Georgia Carpet. We are happy to answer any questions, so feel free to chat with us or stop by today!