Gerflor tiles : The complete guide to choosing the ideal PVC floor covering

Gerflor tiles : The complete guide to choosing the ideal PVC floor covering

Tired of impersonal floors that are difficult to clean and not very durable? Gerflor tiles provide a concrete answer, with their intuitive installation and simplified maintenance. Thanks to these PVC floor coverings, whether clip-on or adhesive tiles, you can create a welcoming, hard-wearing space. The range also includes vinyl and LVT solutions, combining exceptional robustness with recyclability. A complete range for recyclable floors to suit every need. A practical alternative that combines aesthetics and performance for your furnishing projects!

Contents

  1. Gerflor coatings: versatility and performance
  2. Optimized installation methods
  3. Care and durability
  4. Selection criteria
  5. Market and availability

Gerflor coatings: versatility and performance

Ranges and features

To compare Gerflor's flagship coating collections, here are their special features:

  • Senso Lock: These clip-on vinyl planks feature a wear layer (0.20 to 0.30 mm) and realistic decors. An ideal choice for those looking to order a durable product.
  • Senso Premium Clic: Made in France, these rigid planks feature trendy patterns designed by Gerflor designers. Their click system simplifies installation.
  • Creation: Available in glued or rigid acoustic versions, this range is suitable for both residential and professional use. Perfect for those wishing to request a sample before purchasing.
  • Vinyl Design and Prime: These self-adhesive PVC tiles combine ease of maintenance with elegance. Their 100% recyclable composition meets ecological requirements.
  • GTI Max: Designed for industrial environments, these slabs withstand heavy loads while remaining easy to install.

Each solution meets specific needs in terms of design and performance.

Gerflor coverings come in a variety of formats to suit any room. Clip-on systems such as Senso Lock allow glueless floating installation - ideal for quick renovations. These planks can be installed on any flat, dry surface, even over old tiles or parquet.

How do you optimize your worksite? Choose intelligent click systems such as Virtuo, which eliminate the need for complex cut-outs. The Senso range also offers 100% vertical locking to assemble boards in a single movement. Tip: consider ordering a sample to test the installation!

Technical and environmental performance

Comparative Acoustic and Environmental Performance of Gerflor Tiles
Features Performance Range(s) concerned
Acoustic insulation 15 to 19 dB Heterogeneous rolls
Acoustic insulation 16 dB Gerflor TopSilence Design
Recyclability 100% recyclable Vinyl tiles and planks, design vinyl tiles, technical tiles, Senso Premium Clic tiles
Recycling target 60,000 tonnes of materials per year Gerflor's global objective for 2025

Gerflor innovates in vinyl recycling with its Floor to Floor plant. Installation offcuts and old floor coverings are transformed into reusable granules. An initiative that explains the many positive reviews of their ecological commitment.

The resistance of Gerflor products varies from range to range. Rigid collections like Virtuo withstand heavy traffic thanks to their reinforced wear layer. For private customers, glue-down strips offer a stable alternative at a competitive price. Good to know: some references are available in stock for express delivery.

Suitable for decorative projects

Gerflor coverings lend themselves to all kinds of creations, even in the bathroom. The Revela range, for example, offers moisture-resistant wallboards. Play with beige or gray colors to create contemporary ambiences.

Personalize your spaces by mixing formats and textures. For example, combine smooth slabs with wood-relief planks for a dynamic look. Premium colors such as bleached oak complement every style, from rustic to minimalist. Take a look at our customer reviews for inspiration!

Optimized installation methods

Substrate preparation

It's essential to assess the condition of the existing floor before installing Gerflor planks. An underlay suitable for vinyl floors is recommended to improve both sound and heat insulation.

For clip-on parquet, this preparation is crucial. The underlay acts as a moisture barrier, providing lasting protection for your PVC floor. A practical tip: order samples to test different options before installation. They give a precise idea of the final result, especially for beige or wood colors.

Installation techniques

Gerflor Virtuo planks are available in several installation systems: clip-on, self-adhesive or glue-down. The choice depends above all on the end use - residential or professional. Self-leveling versions simplify installation without glue or clicks, ideal for rapid renovation.

Beware of rough cuts: badly cut vinyl compromises the waterproofing and aesthetics of the covering. Use a Virtuo knife for clean cuts, especially around baseboards. A tip: draw two axes perpendicular to the center of the room to align the first planks perfectly. Always leave an expansion gap at the edges, especially with rigid products.

Mistakes to avoid

Beware, however: failure to allow the flooring to acclimatize in the room will lead to expansion. This point is often overlooked with premium clip-in floors. Fortunately, click systems allow you to reposition the planks in the event of a mistake.

Another common pitfall is underestimating the importance of keeping slightly more stock than you need. Customer reviews regularly emphasize this point - it's better to plan ahead than risk running out of stock during construction.

Recommended tools

Installing vinyl flooring doesn't require sophisticated equipment. A basic kit (tape measure, ruler, rubber mallet) is all you need for clip-in planks. For rigid PVC, invest in a professional tile cutter.

The Virtuo knife excels when it comes to making complex cuts around pipes. The principle? Measure the slab, align the blade with the line, then apply firm pressure. The result: perfect joints between each element, even for herringbone designs. This tool significantly reduces wastage, an asset for tight budgets.

Care and durability

Maintenance protocol

The cleaning frequency of Gerflor coverings varies according to use and degree of soiling. For normal residential use, regular cleaning with a damp mop and a mild cleaner is generally satisfactory. This routine preserves both vinyl and PVC, while maintaining their shine.

To prevent micro-scratches on clip-on boards, it's best to use products adapted to rigid PVC. A preliminary test in a discreet corner is essential before general application. Paradoxically, these slight imperfections are sometimes the result of over-energetic cleaning - hence the advantage of using microfiber cloths rather than abrasive sponges. For deep scratches on Senso blades, spot replacement remains the safest solution.

Repair and replacement

Extraction of a board obviously depends on the type of installation. Clip-in systems can be dismantled relatively easily with a special tool, provided that the adjacent elements are not damaged. A practical tip: always keep a few spare boards from the same batch for the initial installation.

Color differences between batches can lead to nuances in color, especially for wood or tile decors. For perfect homogeneity, it's best to order all the planks you need from the outset. If you need to top up your stock, be sure to alternate between new and old planks during installation. Some clever customers reserve slightly different shades for less visible areas.

Guarantees and know-how

Gerflor 's warranties vary according to product range and contractual conditions. The French company relies on innovative design - as demonstrated by its patented clip-on systems. Their new-generation LVT, manufactured in France, combines premium aesthetics with simplified installation.

For decades, Gerflor has been perfecting its floor coverings to meet residential and professional needs. Their catalog offers a wide choice of decors, from authentic parquet to contemporary beige patterns. Acoustic planks and Rigid tiles illustrate this desire to combine technical performance with ease of installation. For customized projects, don't hesitate to ask for samples - it's the best way to validate your choice before ordering the entire surface.

Selection criteria

Cost-benefit analysis

The return on investment of Gerflor coverings can be assessed in a number of ways. It's worth noting that the manufacturer is continually enhancing its products, as demonstrated by the 60 million euro investment in a new production line for decorative tiles and planks. From the user's point of view, these solutions represent a sustainable choice for professionals, improving both the customer experience and team comfort.

Gerflor PVC planks are easy to maintain, significantly reducing costs over the long term. Their rigid click system means they can be installed quickly - an asset for reducing labor costs. And unlike other types of flooring, they are exceptionally robust, making replacement easier than ever. Their recyclable composition also reduces waste disposal costs.

Selection by use

The thickness of Gerflor planks varies according to the final application, from residential housing to demanding industrial environments.

For schools, Gerflor offers solutions that combine safety, durability and acoustic performance. These floor coverings combine wear resistance, ease of cleaning and optimal soundproofing. The range, with its clip-on mounting system, particularly simplifies installation and occasional replacement. In the industrial sector, Gerflor GTI PVC tiles offer remarkable longevity, while the GERFLOR GTI MAX version meets the most intensive requirements.

Logistics and warehousing

Calculating quantities correctly can save you a lot of trouble on the job. Always remember to allow for an extra margin to anticipate cuts and installation contingencies.

When it comes to storage, these rigid vinyl coverings require a few precautions. Store them flat in a dry place, away from UV rays that could alter the colors. For clip-on planks, check that the packaging remains intact right up to installation. A word of advice: free samples allow you to validate your choice of colors before ordering the full range of materials.

Market trends

Current demand clearly favors eco-friendly solutions, especially for commercial flooring. Gerflor collections meet this demand with recyclable products and low-carbon creation processes.

Recent environmental standards are having a direct impact on LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles). Manufacturers are constantly innovating to offer phthalate-free tiles. A development to be followed closely to remain compliant with regulations.

Related services

Thecomprehensive offer now includes everything from delivery to telephone technical support. Customer reviews regularly emphasize the quality of post-order follow-up.

The choice of protection depends above all on the end use. For vinyl flooring in residential environments, the standard ten-year warranty is generally sufficient. Commercial spaces, on the other hand, are more likely to opt for extensive insurance covering intensive wear and tear. Please note: some clip-on boards have built-in scratch protection, ideal for high-traffic areas.

In the event of a dispute, the procedure is simple. Simply contact customer service with product references and photos of the problem. Most complaints are quickly resolved.

Opt for Gerflor tiles and discover a PVC floor that's as durable as it is attractive, perfectly suited to everyday use.

FAQ

What specific tools are recommended for laying Gerflor tiles in complex configurations (stairs, non-right angles)?

When installing Gerflor tiles in complex configurations, a tape measure and ruler are essential for measuring and marking cut-outs. A cutter is needed for adhesive or clip-on PVC tiles, while a mallet makes clipping easier. A jigsaw or handsaw can be used for more precise cuts, particularly in corners.

To ensure perpendicularity of cuts, a square is recommended, especially for non-right angles. A laser rangefinder enables precise measurements to be taken, particularly for custom-made staircases, and a level ensures level installation. Preparing the substrate is also crucial, by cleaning it and making sure it's flat and smooth.

How can Gerflor tiles be properly stored on site to prevent warping or damage before installation?

To avoid warping or damage to Gerflor tiles before installation, it is essential to store them flat. It is also recommended to store them for 24 to 48 hours in the room where they will be installed, to allow them to adapt to the ambient temperature.

Before laying, we recommend mixing tiles from different cardboards to even out any tonal differences. Make sure the installation surface is clean, dry, solid and level, levelling if necessary. Clean the surface, removing all dust, dirt and debris, ideally with a vacuum cleaner.

Are there official video tutorials or detailed installation guides for each Gerflor tile range, especially for the complex clip-on systems?

Yes, Gerflor offers video tutorials and installation guides for its tiles, including clip-on systems. The "Gerflor France" YouTube channel features installation tutorials for various products, such as Senso Premium Clic. Guides are also available on the Gerflor website, notably for the Virtuo Senso adhesive range.

The installation of PVC clip-in tiles is presented as quick and easy, with instructions for preparing the floor and clipping the tiles together, starting at a corner of the room. We recommend visiting the Gerflor website and YouTube channel for the latest official tutorials for each range.

How do you manage expansion joints when laying Gerflor tiles in large rooms or spaces with wide temperature variations?

When installing Gerflor tiles in large rooms or spaces with wide temperature variations, it is crucial to manage expansion joints. It is recommended to leave a peripheral expansion gap of a few millimeters between the tiles and the walls to allow the tiles to expand or contract according to temperature variations.

In large rooms, it may be necessary to provide intermediate expansion joints in addition to the perimeter space. Before installation, it is essential to allow the tiles to acclimatize to room temperature for at least 48 hours. For finishing, silicone sealants are available to match the colors of Gerflor coverings, making it possible to create discreet, effective expansion joints.

What are the solutions for improving sound insulation with Gerflor tiles, beyond the use of a standard underlay?

To improve sound insulation with Gerflor tiles, beyond a standard underlay, it is possible to choose specific ranges with integrated sound insulation, such as the Creation 40 Rigid Acoustic and Creation 55 Rigid Acoustic ranges. These products are designed to reduce impact noise. Another option is Gerflor's TopSilence Design range, offering hybrid acoustic PVC planks.

It is also possible to use high-performance acoustic underlayments in roll form, such as Gerflor Acoustic 15 dB and Gerflor Acoustic Plus, which are compatible with certain ranges of Gerflor clip-on PVC tiles and planks. Gerflor's heterogeneous floor coverings in rolls also offer excellent impact noise insulation.

How do you maintain Gerflor tiles to preserve their appearance and durability in specific environments (kitchen, bathroom, hallway)?

To preserve the appearance and durability of Gerflor tiles in specific environments, it is essential to adoptregular and appropriate maintenance practices. Doormats should be placed at entrances to retain gravel and soil, and regular vacuuming or sweeping is recommended to remove dust and dirt.

In the kitchen, it's important to clean up splashes and stains immediately. In the bathroom, we recommend regular wiping up of stagnant water and good ventilation. In the case of stubborn stains, dilute bleach, white spirit or lemon juice can be used with care. Acetone and chlorinated solvents should be avoided.

What specific environmental certifications has Gerflor obtained for its tiles, beyond simple recycling?

Gerflor is committed to an environmental approach and has obtained demanding product certifications and labels. Gerflor floors comply with the highest standards and have the A+ standard, guaranteeing the quality of the covering. Professional glue-down PVC products are certified QB UPEC (or QB UPEC A+ for acoustic products), according to the Wear, Punching, Water, Chemical classification.

Gerflor is also committed to reducing the environmental footprint of its products by reducing hazardous substances. Gerflor clip-on PVC tiles contain no formaldehyde, lead, heavy metals, solvents or plasticizers that are harmful to health. In addition, Gerflor uses recycled materials and low-VOC floors.