Laying VCT tiles technique

[singring]

I am going to be installing VCT in my garage in the next couple of weeks, and have been doing my research on this excellent forum. One question that I have yet to find an answer to is regarding the orientation of the individual tiles when applying them to the glued floor surface. Why do commercial installers lay the tiles at 90 degrees to those already glued to the floor? I have seen this in many buildings. The VCT surface has a grain pattern that, to my eye, would provide an almost poured-floor-look if the tiles were all laid with the grain flowing in one direction, rather that alernating. Is the integrity of the tiles compromised by laying them in one directional pattern?

 

[Wingnut65]

That is just the Owner's preference to use what is called the basket weave. It really makes the tile stand out instead of making it a uniform and monochromatic floor.

There is no right or wrong way to orient the tile, its up to you. But whatever pattern you start, continue throughout. I've seen one floor have all going one way except one that was turned. They had to come back to fix it because it stood our like a sore thumb.

Good Luck with your project. Post Pix.

 

[reggie]

take a look at this install by Dipper

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=43498

one directional - looks nice

 

[klaus]

Traditionally vct used in large space commercial applications would showcase the sure sign of the tiles not being square as the rows would start to curve if all the tiles were all layed in one direction. Quarter turning every other tile makes sure the rows are all straight even if the tiles themselves are not pefectly square.

The next time you are in a large big box store check out how straight the long rows are.