What are the differences between a 'micro-bevel' and a 'painted bevel'?

Bevels can provide a more realistic look to flooring, but they are a subtle touch to each plank that some people may not even notice on first glance.

Along the edge of each tile or plank in the Urban Surfaces’ line is either a:

Micro-bevel
Painted bevel
Square edge (no bevel)

The bevel serves both a function and form. The function of the micro-bevel on GlueDown LVT is to allow each plank or tile in an installation to smoothly butt next to each other without the edges of “proud boards” becoming a tripping hazard or a sharp edge. Proud boards are planks or tiles that peak up higher than other material due to a high spot in the subfloor below. When these boards are higher, the edges of the planks or tiles can become exposed.

While nothing can overcome improper subfloor prep in a GlueDown installation to even out subfloor inconsistencies, the micro-bevel can assist. GlueDown LVT can either have a square edge (no bevel) or a micro-bevel. The micro-bevel shaves the wear layer down at a slight angle to create a distinct look for each flooring piece.

Product Line / Bevel Type

Studio 12 GlueDown Floor (Square Edge)

Main Street GlueDown Vinyl Floor (Square Edge)

City Heights GlueDown Vinyl Floor (Square Edge)

Level Seven Commercial GlueDown Vinyl Floor (Micro-Bevel)

InstaGrip (Micro-Bevel)

Foundations GlueDown Floor (Square Edge)

Floating floors have the additional option of a painted bevel. Most consider this look as an upgrade to either a square edge or micro-bevel finish. It is how it sounds. The beveled edges of each piece are painted by a special machine with a complimenting color to the floor. This added detail brings dimension and interest to the floor, highlighting each board’s character.