Stamford, Conn.—Luxury vinyl tile manufacturer Metroflor is breaking new ground in the resilient flooring category with the introduction of what is believed to be the first floating LVT to be marketed in this country. In development for more than three years, Konecto employs a patented locking system that requires no adhesive on the floor.

According to Michael Raskin, president of Metroflor, Konecto responds to the trend toward floors that require no adhesive. “Laminate floors have created significant demand for this type of application, whether it’s due to environmental issues or a lack of trained installers,” he said. “But the key component is that Konecto is waterproof—there are not many floating floor products that are waterproof—so it’s really a product that creates a bridge between the sheet vinyl and laminate markets.”

Raskin believes Konecto fills a void in the flooring marketplace because a customer who preferred resilient floors for its warmness, acoustics and comfort underfoot only had a floating floor option in roll goods, which does not offer the unique looks of an individual plank or tile. More importantly, he said, a retailer can be more comfortable selling this product because it is easier to install and repair, and it is more cost efficient.

Distributors with whom FCNews spoke to were raving about the product upon seeing it for the first time last month, and Raskin reported over 4,000 displays have been sold so far. One distributor told FCNews he put samples of Konecto into tubs of water for three months, and when he pulled them out they were still 100% flat with no curling or piquing and still adhered together.

The specifics

The initial rollout this month will be comprised of wood planks in a good/better/best format. Country Plank is the entry-level product offering traditional looks and a 6mm wearlayer. Sierra Plank is the trade-up with its 12mm wearlayer and 14 styles. The top of the line is Prestige Plank, also with a 12mm wearlayer and 10 styles. Tiles will come on line in late spring with approximately 15 patterns. Retail price points range from $2.49 to $3.99 depending on the product and area.