I finally stopped using a tapping block on click-lock vinyl

Used to swear by it for tight seams, but after a job in Tampa where the humidity swelled the planks, I started just using my palm. The block was creating micro-gaps that would telegraph later. Anyone else ditch the block for certain materials?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_jana1mo ago

Wow, that's a huge point about humidity. I was totally in the "always use a block" camp, too. Had a similar thing happen on a bathroom floor where everything felt perfect during install. Came back a month later and saw these tiny shadow lines at some seams. Realized the block was just a little too much force for that particular brand. Your palm gives you way better feel for when it's actually seated.

jones.anna1mo ago

Wait, a whole month later?

abby_wilson511mo ago

Right?! I had the exact same thing happen with some click-lock laminate. The block left little dents that only showed up when the light hit them just right. Now I just use my hand for the final tap, feels way more controlled.