Laminate with a plastic lock how to lay. Lock with plastic plate

Laminate is one of the most popular and sought-after floor coverings of our time. And this is not surprising, because its use allows you to give the room a completely different look in a short period of time. Today, there are a large number of manufacturers who make it in different colors, styles, textures, and more. Laminate is famous for being very easy to assemble. Gone are the days when everything was glued together. Now there is glueless technology. Special locks are used in the laminate. It is noteworthy that there is a wide variety of them. In this article, we will introduce you to all existing types of laminate locks. We will compare them with each other and discuss which one is better.

Why do we need different types of locks

Someone may object, but why, in fact, complicate everything and come up with a large number of castle connections? On the one hand, it may seem that it is best to rivet everything according to the standard, and then the installers will not have to bother at all. However, as practice shows, it is during installation that it often becomes necessary to have different laminate lock systems.

Already now we can safely say that some types of laminate locks are clearly outdated. They are used by the manufacturer only for the reason that he has old equipment. Some laminate locks are considered the most popular and in demand. Others belong exclusively to one of the many companies, that is, they have patented their development on the laminate lock, and no one can copy them.

So, if you look at the modern market, then you can find the following types of laminate locks:

  1. Lock is the simplest of all.
  2. Click - this type of laminate lock is the most common.
  3. Tarkett T-Lock this species lock for laminate and is just the same patented.
  4. 5G - this system uses a metal or plastic fixation piece.
  5. Megalock - this type of laminate lock is distinguished by the presence of an end joint zone on the tongues.
  6. Click Express - in terms of prevalence, it can be compared with another Click system.
  7. Unicklick - this laminate lock is different in that the coating can be assembled and disassembled at least four times.

Among other things, there are locking systems with aluminum, plastic and other elements. More about all this, we will present to you in this article. However, now we will give an answer to the question, why so many varieties of castle systems. For example, locking systems with an aluminum system are designed for loads up to 1.2 tons per square meter. Plus, after installation, a seamless effect is created.

But what if you need to dismantle the floors, for example, you live in a house where flooding often occurs. And if you disassemble the laminate in time, it will not be damaged. There may be other cases. So, you can choose a system that allows you to disassemble the laminate.

Moreover, the presence of one or another lock for laminate also indicates the cost of the product. For example, the Lock system is predominantly characteristic of a budget laminate. Plus, some locks can create an original picture on the floor during installation, whether it is a beautiful seam or a complete lack of a seam. So, now we propose to directly start comparing and studying different locks for laminate.

Lock system locks

This type of laminate lock is created by milling the lock part. The thickness of the locking element is equal to the thickness of the MDF board. So, on one side of the laminate panel there is a special groove, and on the opposite side there is a spike. A latch is built into them, which holds the laminate together in the process of walking on it. This laminate lock system has the following advantages:

  • Although difficult, it is possible to disassemble the laminate in order to re-lay it or replace individual strips. But without damage to the castle can not do.
  • Relatively simple design, which is located directly on the panel itself.
  • Laminate with this type of castle has a relatively low cost, which significantly affects the family budget.

For the sake of objectivity, we note the cons. If excessive load is applied to the floors, then friction will form at the joints. For this reason, the latches in the groove will begin to wear out, as a result, the connection will become fragile. This is one of the reasons why gaps often appear between the planks.

Click system locks

Unlike the laminate lock system described above, Click has more advantages. The assembly process of the laminate is carried out at an angle of 45 degrees. And at the same time, you should not make a titanic effort. If the previous lock can be damaged during installation, then these are not. Moreover, the docking is very tight and reliable. As a result, such a connection will cope with high loads.

Important! A number of well-known and expensive manufacturers produce such a laminate, where after installation by the Click system, the joints of the lamellas are absolutely not visible. Of course, such laminate locks create a beautiful effect.

There are a number of positive aspects of this system:

  • Double mount at 45 degree angle.
  • After the installation is completed, the flooring has sufficient strength.
  • During operation, the risk of deformation is practically reduced to zero.
  • If you have certain skills, you can disassemble up to six times.
  • Even a non-professional in this field can handle the installation process.
  • No special building material is required for installation.
  • According to the information provided by the manufacturers, a floor difference along the plane of up to 3 mm per square meter is allowed.
  • During installation, it is impossible to damage the laminate.

What is better Click or Lock?

So, having considered the main features of these two systems, let's compare them with each other and immediately determine which laminate locks are better. If we speak for Lock, then this is a lock connection throughout years proved to be positive. This castle is considered the most affordable and inexpensive. After all, the lock is formed by milling directly on the lamella itself. For installation, you need to make a lot of physical effort, as a mallet / hammer and a wooden stand are used. Otherwise, the connection will not be fixed.

Important! This installation method requires special skills of the master, since if you make a little more effort, the laminate lock can be damaged. Often there were cases when the master missed the hammer and fell right into the thorn. The consequences are not the most encouraging.

Click, on the other hand, is a more modern laminate locking system. It completely lacks the shortcomings described above. The process of making a groove occurs in the same way, by milling. But as for the shape of the spike, it looks like a flat hook. The groove, in turn, has a kind of platform where this spike enters. As practice shows, the assembly process is very fast. It is necessary to bring the bar to the groove at an angle of 45 degrees. Insert the groove into the spike. And with a smooth movement, simultaneously pressing and lowering, a strong connection is formed. As a result, you can hear a characteristic click.

So, from this description and comparison, it becomes obvious which of these two laminate lock systems is better. Although you will have to overpay for the latter, but final result will be much more efficient.

Lock systems

Lock with plastic plate

After a while, the manufacturers decided to improve the lamella docking system and added plastic to the laminate locks. This technology has characteristic differences and is divided into two features:

  1. Springy. The main difference is that you can literally snap it in one motion. This plate has an important advantage - the speed of installation work. However, there are often clear barriers to quick installation. This is explained by the fact that the floors are always even. As a result, the lamella begins to succumb to deformation, which leads to difficulties.
  2. Rigid. The snap-in design is the same, but the panels must be inserted in a longitudinal motion to connect. All this greatly complicates and delays the installation process. Apparently, this lock system is able to withstand a large load, there is no exact information.

But it is important to understand that plastic is used as a connection. And this material tends to break at the most inopportune moment and in the most inopportune place. Therefore, this type of lock for lamianat is not very popular.

Click with aluminum plate

This method of joining the laminate has its own distinctive features and now we will present them to you:

  • Easy installation of the cover.
  • Due to the presence of aluminum in the grooves, a very strong connection is formed that can cope with high loads.
  • This type of docking is able to survive 6 cycles of installation and dismantling of the coating for various reasons.
  • Possibility to create an airtight coating. So moisture will definitely not get under the laminate.
  • Can be mounted on a completely different surface, for example, concrete screed, wooden floor and more.

Important! According to the manufacturer, this coating is able to cope with a load of 850 to 1200 kg per square meter.

Tarkett T-Lock

As already mentioned, this is a lock patented by the manufacturer, developed using a special technology. This docking method can be safely attributed to the most progressive. Locks have relatively wide special elements, which, when approached, are joined without distortions and deformations. In this case, a large angle of inclination should not be given.

When docking, a characteristic click is heard, indicating reliability and complete fixation. Without deforming the lock, the laminate can be disassembled and reassembled up to four times. An important advantage is that this coating is convenient when laying in rooms with cramped dimensions.

5G

When using this technology, the docking process occurs not only from the longitudinal side of the lamella, but also from short end sections. At the same time, there are no difficulties during installation work. The slats snap on very easily. But there is one significant drawback here. In such systems, there is always a plastic or aluminum fixing tongue. If during installation it is accidentally damaged, then it can no longer be repaired, as a result, the laminate board will automatically become unusable.

Megalock

In this case, docking is carried out not only on the long side, but also on the short side. The principle of connection is reduced to the use of tongue and groove technology. Due to this, the coating became possible to repair if necessary. Moreover, it can be disassembled and reassembled several times without the risk of damage to the coating.

Important! The Megalock lock system allows you to achieve complete insulation against moisture penetration. That is why these locks are used in combination with moisture resistant products.

Systems from other manufacturers

So, we have discussed with you the most common technologies that are most often found on the domestic market. Now let's pay attention to the lock systems that are patented by different manufacturers.

  1. Uniclic. Laminate with uni click locks has an original latching system. Docking takes place according to the tenon-groove method, but without any additional tool. The result of joining the laminate with uni click locks is the complete absence of cracks, the divergence of the panels after a while, the absence of a visible seam.
  2. ProLock and SmartLock. As for ProLoc, this locking system has found its application in rooms where laminate is being installed over a large area. Also in those places where there will be a serious load on the coating. The laying method has no problems, everything is simple. If there is high humidity in the room, then preference is given to the SafeSeal system. If we talk about SmartLock, then its joints are treated with a special moisture-proof impregnation. During installation, it is important to observe the correct angle in this case, no special problems should arise.
  3. Pro click. The installation process of the laminate is carried out according to one geometry. Additionally, it is recommended to use special sealants to improve the docking properties. Even under surface tension conditions, Pro Click will not produce cracks or other defects.
  4. ClickXpress, DropXpress and PressXpress. All these locks are inherent in one manufacturer - Balterio. Each of them has its own characteristics. Click Xpress allows you to achieve the effect of a seamless coating. Disassembly is allowed. DropXpress is U-shaped and resembles a 5G system. As for PressXpress, docking is done by pressing. No visible seams.
  5. classen. This type of laminate lock is a representative of a German manufacturer. We can safely say that this is one of the most reliable and strong locks. The connection process is accompanied by a tongue and groove.
  6. Witex. According to the manufacturer, this lock has a tensile strength of up to 1100 Nm / p.m. As a result, it is characterized as reliable and durable. However, there is an important difference and it boils down to the fact that the joint is treated with paraffin.

Conclusion

So here we are, we've covered everything. important features and varieties of locks for laminate. As you can see, they all have the most different types and specifications. We hope that this material has given you a lot of useful food for thought. After reading this article and watching the video at the end of the article, you can arm yourself with the necessary knowledge and boldly go to the store. This will ensure that you make a quality purchase.

Laminate is one of the most popular floor coverings. Today, there are many types of similar products that are durable and beautiful design. To facilitate the installation of boards, they are equipped with special locks, which we will talk about in more detail today.

Advantages and disadvantages

Laminate installation is a relatively simple operation, which is achieved through the use of special locking slots. They allow high-quality and fast joining of the planks. There are only two types of laminate locks, which differ in several parameters. The simplest and most economical option is the Lock system type, which has several advantages:

  • Detachable design. laminate with such a latch can be disassembled and mounted again. But the number of repetitions is limited, since the structures have little strength and may lose their original properties over time.
  • Connection strength. This is achieved through special grooves that go into each other, preventing the laminate from moving.
  • Low cost. This is due to the ease of manufacture and simple shape.

But similar designs are not universal. If the locks are constantly subjected to significant loads, then this leads to an increase in friction between the boards. At the same time, the lock “swings” and gradually loses its properties, and this increases the distance between the lamellas. The gaps that have appeared in such a laminate are technically impossible to repair or repair. The only solution is laying new boards.

Recently, manufacturers began to equip the material with grooves of the type Click. Such mechanisms have many positive aspects, which led to such a huge popularity. The advantages of such products include:

  • Double mounts. Systems of connecting elements are located when docked to each other at an angle of 45 degrees. That is why the connection is visually almost imperceptible on the surface of the laminate. To find it, you need to take a good look at the pattern of the material.
  • High strength. Such locks can withstand significant breaking forces, which makes them superior to previous models.
  • Minimal chance that laminate boards will be damaged during assembly.

  • The locks are durable, which allows you to perform a cycle of dismantling and laying up to 6 times. Here they are also slightly ahead of the previously considered modifications.
  • Laying laminate with such locks is very simple, which does not require special skills to work with such objects.
  • Products with such systems can be located on a surface that has small differences. This value can reach 3 mm per square meter area.
  • Installation is carried out manually, which eliminates the use of any auxiliary tools.

Among the negative aspects of such a connection is only the complexity of their production, which affects the cost of finished goods. But this difference is almost imperceptible, since high-quality products from European manufacturers will last a long time regardless of the type of lock.

What are lock systems?

Laminate lock systems are constantly being improved, which leads to the emergence of many of their modifications. But technically, all locks belong to one of 2 types:

lock

This type of structure is the most common, since its production involves only end milling. This latch consists of a spike and a groove that repeat the structure of each other. They are equipped with several combs, which, when latched, do not allow slipping out. To fix the Lock-lock, you should hit under one of the ends of the laminate. These operations are performed using a wooden or rubber mallet, which will not allow damage to the structure of the castle. So, to lay the board on the floor, you need to have a little experience with these substances.

Lock-locks are relatively simple and therefore are losing their popularity. Today, many companies supplement such systems with special plastic plates. This makes it possible to simplify installation work for newbies. This type of locks can be divided into 2 subtypes:

  • Springy. This type of construction is classic, as the lock snaps into place when connected.
  • Rigid. To connect similar elements, you need to insert one groove and align in the longitudinal direction. But the installation of such a laminate is much more complicated, which requires studying the description of this technology.

Click

These types of locks also consist of two slots that complement each other. But in order to connect them, you will have to correctly insert the structures one into the other at an angle of about 30-45 degrees. After that, the plates are aligned on the floor, which leads to the snapping and fixation of the lock. Today they began to produce a laminate with aluminum locks of the same type, but this connection can withstand a much higher load.

Click-locks are more common, which has led to the emergence of many varieties of them. Among this diversity, several classic designs should be distinguished:

  • Just click. Locks of this type are equipped with a laminate of the Austrian manufacturer Egger. These mechanisms are located on all sides, which makes it easier to lay the laminate. A feature of such a product is the presence of a high comb, which will provide a reliable joint and high strength of the connection.
  • Uniclic. Belgian castle. It combines the technology of snapping and knocking the slats, so it is used by beginners who do not have certain skills in working with other systems.
  • PressXpress. This group includes peculiar locking structures such as 3G, 4G and 5G. A feature of this system is the presence of a plastic tongue, which improves the adhesion between the docking elements. Such double designs have a minimum joint, and also minimize the occurrence of gaps between the lamellas. But if you re-assemble such a laminate, then plastic elements can bring a little difficulty.
  • 4G and 5G-S Aluminum Locking System. These systems are hybrid, as they combine both classical designs. Metal inserts at the same time provide high strength and durability of the laminate.

As you can see, the variety of lock systems is very wide, therefore, before laying the laminate, it is important to determine the type of lock connection in order to select the optimal laying algorithm.

Which is better to choose?

The lock systems of the considered types have unique properties, but at the same time they can radically differ in technical parameters. Many experts claim that the Click system is the most practical lock design. The advantage of this system is durability. Click locks during installation form a kind of monolith that is difficult to destroy or loosen.

In its turn , Lock systems are somewhat simpler and cheaper. If the quality of the surface on which the laminate is laid meets all the requirements of the manufacturer, then the type of connection practically does not play a role.

When choosing lamellas, it is important to take into account their manufacturer, since the quality of the final surface and the duration of its operation depend on it.

How to treat from moisture?

Laminate is a material based on wood fibers and piece polymers. Therefore, many types of boards absorb moisture very well, which negatively affects its structure. To exclude such an impact, water should be prevented from entering the lower layers of the lamellas, where the wood is located. The solution to this problem is the additional processing of the seams after laying the laminate.

Today, several types of substances are used for such purposes:

  • Sealant. The best option would be a mixture based on silicone. Such substances do not allow moisture to pass through. Before applying this mixture to the joints, you need to level the surface, so the laying of the lamellas must be constantly monitored.
  • Wax. This substance is very popular, as the material qualitatively protects the joints from moisture and is easy to apply. However, the mixture wears off over time, so you need to cover the laminate with it periodically.
  • Polish. Compositions of this type are specially produced for laminate. The products are presented on the market both in solid and liquid state (spray). The use of polishes significantly increases the service life of the top layer, and also gives it an attractive shine.

Why does laminate come apart?

The quality of operation of laminate locks depends on many factors. There are times when the joints begin to diverge, which leads to the formation of small gaps. There are several reasons for this phenomenon:

  • Low humidity. Dry air causes the wood substrate of the material to shrink. You can eliminate this phenomenon by creating inside the room optimal humidity air. The easiest option is to periodically air the room. If this does not help, you can install a humidifier and control the performance individually.
  • uneven floor. Surface differences lead to the fact that the lamellas are joined unevenly, and this leads to a difference in height at the junction. Please note that in some cases they can diverge, and sometimes, on the contrary, shrink (especially under pressure). The solution to this problem is only laying the lamellas again. However, it is important to carefully level the floor beforehand in order to glue the laminate to the surface without drops.

When choosing laminate flooring, rarely does anyone realize that the types of laminate locks determine its quality. It is they who are responsible for the gap between the panels, the absence or presence of a creak, the divergence of the seams, and the evenness of the surface. Therefore, when purchasing a laminate, you should carefully study not only its characteristics, but also the installation method, the type of adhesion. We will consider the features of installation, fastening systems in more detail.

Almost all panel coupling options are based on the tenon-groove system. The difference is the profiling of the lock system.

There are several main types:

  1. lock. The easiest option. The spike in the section has not a simple straight profile, but a complex figure. The groove under it has a complex shape. The panels are laid by horizontal pressing one into the other. The moment of fixation is a click. For a quality installation, tamping of the extreme web is required. A wooden mallet is used. You can use a regular one, but you will need a wooden block or a special finishing touch. Laminate with this type of lock is difficult to dismantle without destruction. Over time, under mechanical stress, the connection is erased, the panels diverge. Therefore, in addition, the processing of locks with sealant or glue is used. The surface under the laminate requires high quality. Otherwise, during operation, a situation of divergence of the canvases may occur.
  2. Click lock. Modernized previous view. The spike has a hook-shaped bend at the upper end, and a protrusion at the bottom closer to the panel. The groove repeats the shape of the protrusions. Fixation occurs when one panel is inserted into another at an angle. Swinging motion produce lowering to a horizontal position. At this moment, a characteristic click is heard. The lock worked. The connection is strong due to additional fixing protrusions. They are dismantled, the coatings are assembled up to 4 times.
  3. T-locks. Option developed by Tarkett. It combines two types of locking joints, which allows achieving maximum adhesion strength of the panels. When laying, the technology characteristic of Click-systems is used. Simplicity, reliability ensured great popularity of this type among professionals. The floor covering can be dismantled up to several times without damaging the locks.
  4. 5G. These types of lock systems have a plastic or metal insert in the middle that resembles a "tongue". Thanks to it, a tight connection of the canvases is ensured. The installation method is not difficult. The panel is inserted into the previous one in a horizontal position. When pressed, the insert is removed, when placed in the desired position, a click is heard indicating that the “tongue” has fallen into place, the position is fixed. Installation, dismantling will not cause difficulty even for a beginner.
  5. Mega Lock. Advanced fixation system based on 5G. Connect the locks on the laminate begin on the end side. Reliability of coupling is provided with an end insert. And already to the assembled length of the first strip with an offset, the second row is attached to the width. Assembly time is minimal compared to other types. Maximum durability and reliability. Mounting and dismounting up to 4 times is allowed. Another advantage is increased protection against moisture.
  6. ClickXpress lock. Differs in rounded bottom spike, respectively, and the groove. Does not have plastic inserts. Works are carried out according to the principle of the Click system, at an angle. Dismantling, installation up to four times is possible.
  7. Uniclick lock. The spike and groove have a special profile that ensures a strong grip of the planks. Installation can be both at an angle and by knocking. Dismantling is carried out up to 4 times.
  8. aluminum locks. The most reliable connections. Withstand separation resistance up to 1200 kg/sq. m. Laying without a threshold is possible. Such a laminate has two types of lock - thorn-groove, aluminum on the bottom. A distinctive feature is that the joints between the canvases are practically invisible. Installation, dismantling is allowed up to 5 times.

Laying laminate without locks is becoming less and less popular due to the use of additional chemicals for fixing and the speed of work. Modern types of locks allow several times to increase the productivity and quality of the resulting surfaces.

Useful video: Overview of laminate locks

Conventionally, all laminate floor locks are divided into two groups according to the principle of Lock and Click. The first group is relatively inexpensive, providing quite reliable grip. The second belongs to the expensive segment, but the adhesion and quality of the resulting surface will be high. Each type of connection has pros and cons. For some, price is important, but for others, high quality and reliability.

If we compare what is better than Lock or Click, in terms of dismantling-mounting, then the first system is more prone to destruction of mounting profiles.

Preparing for laying

Any floor covering requires surface preparation. The best option if a layer is applied to the rough screed. Such a basis will ensure the proper level of quality. After complete hardening of the preparatory layer, it is recommended to lay the waterproofing. To a greater extent, this applies to the first floors of apartment complexes, private housing.

  • Cork . The most expensive option, but environmentally friendly, hides small irregularities in the rough base, is not pressed under load. The disadvantages include high cost; destruction in a humid environment, with the "warm floor" system.
  • Polyethylene foam. A cheap option, has a low thermal conductivity, is resistant to moisture, the appearance of bacteria. Short-lived, pressed.
  • Styrofoam. A relatively inexpensive option, used when installing the "warm floor" system, it provides additional sound insulation. It compresses over time.

Chosen according to budget best option. The substrate is covered without overlapping each other. Fixing to the floor, gluing the seams is done with masking tape.

Important points before installation

Proper installation will be ensured if several nuances are provided:

  1. When buying, check with the seller whether additional protective impregnation of laminate locks is required or not. In the second case, you should purchase wax in advance. Processing is carried out prior to installation.
  2. Laminate must lie down for at least 2 days in the room where laying is planned. This will allow the material to absorb the microclimate of the room, gain temperature regime. This will ensure minimal shrinkage in the future. A greater effect can be achieved by removing the factory packaging from the material.
  3. Installation is carried out from a window to a door. The end sides are directed towards the openings, and the long side towards the blank walls. This will reduce the visibility of the seams between the canvases.
  4. For Lock systems, provide for the purchase of a special metal lining. It will allow you to easily mount floor coverings, even against walls.
  5. Long rows are mounted offset. The first one starts with a long floorboard, the second - with a short one. This will ensure high-quality adhesion of the slats in different directions.
  6. Technical gaps near the walls should be from 5 to 10 mm. There are special fasteners. At the time of laying on the flooring, a mechanical effect is carried out. As a result, it can move close to the wall if they are not fixed.
  7. Before work, you need to prepare a cutting tool - a hacksaw for wood or a jigsaw. For proper cut quality, the tool must have minimum teeth.

Having provided all the points, you can safely take on the installation of panels.

Before work, read the installation instructions. Unpack the material, start laying with your own hands.

Lock systems are laid with padding both along the end and along the longitudinal part. The uniformity of the seams between the canvases should be observed. Another feature is the work with the last row. Often it is necessary to cut the width of the panels. A measurement is made taking into account the technical gap between the wall and the floor finish, marked, cut off. The canvas is inserted gently at a slight angle. With the help of a metal finisher, the seam is sealed to the desired size.

Laminate with click lock. Such systems do not require additional tools. The canvases are inserted into each other at an angle of 40–45 °, with a slight oscillatory movement they are taken to a horizontal position. At the same time, a click should sound.

Useful video: Laying laminate flooring with Click locks

5G systems, Megalock are distinguished by the simplest installation. The tenon groove is inserted in a horizontal position without finishing.

Laminate manufacturers offer a wide range of locking systems, which best determine the budget and reliability of the resulting flooring. If the locks diverge with a short service life, this indicates several reasons: poor-quality installation or a laminate lock (do not chase a low price), the base for the finish coat is poorly prepared.

Conclusion

In such cases, it is necessary to find out the source of troubles and eliminate it. Sometimes this requires disassembling and re-laying the panels. But if the cause is not eliminated in a timely manner, the lock connections can completely fail, and then the purchase of new material will be required.

Laminate is the most advanced floor covering of the last decade. Manufacturers offer numerous varieties of this material, both in design and overall dimensions. Every year, the production technologies of this flooring are developing, a vinyl laminate with a lock joint has appeared on sale, which is characterized by unprecedented moisture resistance. He was competed with a quartz-vinyl laminate, which became a continuation of the quartz-vinyl tile. This material is characterized by high wear resistance, moisture resistance and original design. Despite the variety, all types of lock laminate are distinguished by simple installation technology. Anyone can install, and the final result of the work always impresses with its great design and perfect surface geometry.

What is a lock laminate?

Laminate was originally created according to the prototype of a tongue-and-groove floorboard with a tongue-and-groove system. Its presence made it possible to connect boards with virtually no seam, creating monolithic surfaces that are as convenient as possible to use.


The natural disadvantage of such floors was sensitivity to temperature fluctuations and high humidity. Another notable disadvantage was the high cost of a floorboard made from exotic woods. Helped me get rid of all these problems. synthetic materials, characterized by geometry stability, moisture resistance, diverse design. The problematic point of the laminate was the adhesive system for joining panels. It required a lot of attention during installation, and the laid laminate did not have a long service life. The seams dispersed, water got in, the base swelled and the floor covering lost its appearance.

To minimize laying problems, the interlock was designed - a simple spike, which had to be lubricated with glue and wait for it to set with the groove surface, was replaced with a milled design. Due to the complex shape, the spike reliably snapped into place in the same complex groove. It resembles a key that only fits one lock, which is why the system is called a lock system.

Benefits of lock laminate

Simplified laying of interlocking laminate is not the only advantage of this type of flooring. Among the main advantages:

  • high rates of work;
  • lack of "wet" processes during laying;
  • possibility self-laying without attracting qualified personnel;
  • variety of collections;
  • the presence in the range of moisture-resistant coatings;
  • high quality connections;
  • extended service life;
  • affordable price;
  • availability of exclusive collections.

You can use the castle laminate in any rooms and commercial premises. It is only necessary to correctly select the material, guided by the rules for choosing a floor covering, depending on the wear resistance class.

Types of lock systems

Laying the lock laminate is easy, thanks to the original fixing system, which allows you to securely connect the panels to each other. Despite the apparent simplicity, it is not easy to develop a laminate lock. Leading manufacturers of floor coverings spend significant funds on this, and the results of the work are necessarily patented. Many companies choose to use such patented designs, but still charge a significant amount for copyrights from laminate sales. Own interlocking of laminate flooring is the privilege of industry leaders.

There are several lock systems, the most popular are:

  • Lock is the first development on the market that provides a simple and effective connection of panels, during the installation process, the panels are laid one after the other and a tenon is driven into the groove. The shape of these elements is such that when wedging, the spike is securely fixed in the groove, while one panel cannot be disconnected from the other without breaking the lock;
  • Click is a more advanced system, the shape of the tongue and groove is such that one panel must be inserted into another at an angle of 45 degrees and snapped into place, pressing it to the floor. Such a floor covering can be disassembled and reassembled, since the locks do not break;

  • 5G is an original locking system that is reliable and easy to fix. To do this, at its end there is a special "tongue" that attracts the panels in width and length to each other;
  • ProLock - a locking system from Pergo, characterized by triple fixation and additional protection of the lock with specially designed water-repellent compounds;
  • Uniclick is a system developed by Belgian engineers from Quick-Step, installation is carried out at an angle of 30 degrees, while the quality of the laminate floor is ideal.

Egger, Balterio, Classen, Witex, Tarkett developed their locking systems; they differ not only in the shape of the tongue and groove, but also in strength characteristics, moisture resistance, and speed of installation.

Types of lock laminate

Manufacturers produce household and commercial interlock laminates of all wear resistance classes. This allows you to choose products for a city apartment, country house, office, shop and shopping center. In the assortment of panels of different lengths and widths, there are collections that resemble parquet in size, and there is a laminate that is not inferior in size to a massive floorboard. All this allows you to create an original pattern on the floor, imitating palace halls or the floor of a village hut. This allows designers to work with this flooring to create the most different styles in the interior.


Manufacturers offer dozens of types of laminate, the surface of which imitates the rarest types of wood. At the same time, the cost of the material of one brand practically does not differ: rosewood or merbau flooring is sold at the same price as pine or birch. In addition to natural wood, laminate can imitate stone or ceramic tiles.

The ease of installation of the laminate and its aesthetic qualities were quickly appreciated by consumers; this flooring was used in all rooms of the house, except for the bathroom and the bathroom. At the heart of the material is the HDF panel, it is highly moisture resistant, but still slightly swells with constant contact with water. For a lock laminate, this is critical, since, first of all, the panel fixing system fails. Attempts to treat the castle with moisture-repellent impregnations made it possible to develop collections that are relevant for the kitchen - rooms with high humidity. With constant contact with water, such locks still lost their properties over time. This forced engineers to turn their attention to materials such as polyvinyl chloride.

Linoleum is produced from vinyl, which attracts with its excellent moisture-resistant characteristics. Not inferior to him and PVC laminate, the basis of which is created from this polymeric material. To reduce the cost of production and reduce weight, the main plate has a honeycomb structure. It can easily withstand the weight of a person, but is afraid of point shock loads. You can use PVC laminate in the bathroom, bathroom and kitchen, on the open terraces and near the pools.


Not enough high performance moisture resistant laminate have been eliminated with the advent of quartz laminate. It appeared on the basis of quartz-vinyl tiles, original material, consisting of 80% quartz sand, the particles of which were interconnected by PVC. The tile was distinguished by high strength, the ability to withstand shock loads, and the decorative layer was protected from mechanical damage by polyurethane. Such a tile pleased with practicality, but it was difficult to mount it. The material turned into highly specialized products, which only professionals could work with.

Manufacturers managed to combine the advantages of tiles and laminate, so a quartz-vinyl castle laminate appeared, the laying of which became available to anyone. home master. These panels can be laid not only in shopping malls, but also in airports, train stations and manufacturing plants. Laying quartz vinyl laminate does not differ in technology from the installation of conventional HDF-based panels.

Lock laminate is a practical, aesthetically pleasing material offered by suppliers in a wide price range. You can choose this product for budget repair"Khrushchev" and exclusive decoration of a fashionable mansion. The range of manufacturers includes moisture-resistant types of lock laminate that can withstand water leakage in the bathroom. All this makes this type of flooring the most popular in the market of finishing materials.


roomplan.ru

Glueless laminate lock system

All variants of modern slats are mounted and fastened in a glueless way. This means that all components are held only by latches. In truth, this mounting option has a lot of advantages, but the main thing is the fact that laying the entire flooring is much easier, moreover, you can always dismantle the desired part.

However, many systems differ significantly from each other. If we are talking about a laminate with metal locks, then you can always choose one of two options:

  1. Latches (Lock);
  2. floors on a collapsible system (Click).

Such connections are considered today one of the most economical options. This model has proven itself, which is why many give it preference. The elements of the system are made by milling from the thickness of MDF or HDF boards.

On one side of each panel is a special spike. On the opposite - a groove with a fixing comb. It is with their help that the connection is made. To hammer the panels, a special tool is used - a wooden mallet. Laying a laminate with a lock of this type is best left to professionals so as not to damage the panels.

Laminate with locklockhas several benefits including:

  • Possibility of assembly and re-disassembly of the already laid coating;
  • strong connection between adjacent floor panels;
  • affordable cost.

! Are there disadvantages? Yes, just like any other option. The fact is that with a large load on the floor, friction occurs at the point of contact. Over time, this leads to the erasure of the fixing comb and the deterioration of the condition of the connection contacts. As a result, the first cracks begin to appear that cannot be eliminated.

Laminates with plastic locks were developed in order to get rid of the disadvantages of such a connection system. Plastic plates are designed to fix the boards immediately after installation.

Today, there are two types of such plates:

  • Springy allow you to snap the elements in one motion. Laying speed is one of the advantages of such a plate. But, the fact is that the geometry of the laminated flooring is far from always ideal for snapping. As a result, the board begins to deform (a crease in the front part), or it is necessary to knock out the lamellas from the opposite side;
  • rigid ones have the same design, but in order to connect the elements, it is necessary to insert each panel into another with a longitudinal movement. There are no visible advantages in this case, but among the disadvantages they note the complexity of installation.

Such lamellae appeared relatively recently. They are completely devoid of all those shortcomings that are inherent in their predecessors. Installation of the flooring can be carried out even by an inexperienced assembler. All elements are connected to each other at an angle of 45 ° without much effort.

The safety of the mounting system is a definite plus: there is practically no damage during the installation process. At the same time, the panels are tightly interconnected and can withstand even heavy loads, despite the long service life. The tension that occurs during laying keeps the boards permanently in place.


! The higher the quality of the connectionsClick, the less noticeable will be the joints of the panels. High quality products from a reliable manufacturer completely hides any joints. You can spot them if you start looking closely. That is why this mounting option is more popular than the previous one.

Benefits of Click mounts:

  • The presence of double mounts located at an angle of 45 degrees;
  • incredibly durable canvas;
  • low probability of damage to the connection of boards during assembly;
  • possible installation and dismantling of the coating up to six times;
  • ease of installation: you can start and complete the whole process yourself, without using the services of experienced repairmen;
  • slight curvature of the draft base is allowed (up to 3 mm per square meter);
  • no need to use additional tools.

Laminate with aluminum locks is also fastened in a glueless way, using a special groove installed on the lamella. This is the most reliable connection option and ensures that the floor will never come apart.

! Modern aluminum mounts can withstand enormous loads. With all this, the features of the mechanism guarantee fast styling. If necessary, you can always replace the damaged element.

The connection withstands a break of about 850-1,200 kg per 1 meter?. This is a truly unique characteristic that makes such a system a leader. In addition, this feature allows the installation / dismantling of the entire flooring several times. WITHOUT harm to the boards.

You can re-lay the floor up to six times. Therefore, such boards are considered almost indispensable for a temporary office or apartment. At the same time, installation is as easy and economical as possible, both in terms of money and time. All panels snap into place only with a single slight pressure. The result is imperceptible joints and a perfectly flat surface.

! Such solidity of the finishing base guarantees one hundred percent protection against moisture penetration inside the "laminated cake". Due to the connection system, boards can be mounted on almost any base. At the same time, the whole system is so thin that it is not able to increase the thickness of the lamellae. Are you laying in a large area? Forget about connectors!

It is known that the connection system of any laminate flooring, regardless of the manufacturer, panel thickness and wear resistance, is the so-called weak point gender.

When even a small amount of moisture makes its way between the individual elements, this leads to enormous problems, including warping of the web and its destruction. Therefore, the problem of moisture resistance is considered problem number 1.

Today, different manufacturers are trying to solve this problem in different ways. In most cases, a positive outcome is achieved by impregnating the joints with special water-repellent compounds and adhesives for lamellas. How to distinguish such products from a number of others? It usually has a blue-green base and is labeled waterproof on the packaging.

Another solution to the problem of increasing water resistance is to impregnate the elements of the boards with a special water-repellent glue. This method is more popular, therefore, a laminate with impregnated locks is bought most often.

Special wax impregnation gives the lamellas additional moisture resistance, and also protects the seams from moisture.

! When buying such products, check the type of impregnation yourself: just scrape off the wax with your fingernail. Succeeded? If yes, then the material is of poor quality and you will have to continue the search.

In some cases, you can carry out the impregnation yourself. To do this, it is necessary to apply a special composition with a brush to the entire part of the connection. It does not glue the lamellas themselves and does not require re-application. Excess is easily removed with a simple wipe.

infolaminat.ru

Laying laminate without the use of adhesive mixture

Any kind of modern laminate flooring can be installed without the use of various fasteners and adhesive mixtures. The panels are fixed to each other due to the latches on them - locks. Consider the main types of laminate locks and the advantages of using such fasteners when laying.

There are two types of laminate according to the type of lock connection:

  • the name "Lock" received a version with latches;
  • name laminate Click ("Click") was given to the coating due to its suitability for assembly and disassembly.

Among the main positive qualities of lock fasteners, it is worth highlighting:

  • ease of installation;
  • simplification of the repair of damaged elements of the coating: it is always possible to dismantle part of the coating and replace unusable boards with new ones.

Lock laminate

When considering the Lock version of the coating when determining which laminate lock is better, it is worth considering the cost-effectiveness of this coating. A similar system is created by milling the interlock, the thickness of which is equal to the thickness of the MDF or HDF board.

A special spike is placed on one side of the laminated panel, and a groove is made on the other, into which a special latch is built. Thus, the panels are inserted into each other, and the spikes are securely fixed in the grooves. Maximum grip can be obtained by knocking the boards together with a wooden or rubber mallet.

The advantages of the Lock system are:

  • the possibility of dismantling and re-laying the coating at any time;
  • very strong construction created by joining laminated panels;
  • low cost of facing material.

Of course, such a locking connection of the laminate has a drawback. It consists in the fact that an excessive load on the floor creates excessive friction between the planks at the junction points. As a result, the latches in the slots wear out and the interlock becomes less effective. In the end, gaps form between the planks, which cannot be eliminated, which means that the coating ceases to be suitable.

Locks with plastic plate

Manufacturers have begun using plastic in the manufacture of locks to make it easier for the panels to stick together.

Moreover, it is worth knowing that the locking type of laminate connection with plastic plates has two types of fasteners:

  1. Spring fasteners allow for a single movement to snap the boards into place. The main advantage of this type is the ease of installation. The downside is that laminated planks are not always perfectly even, and therefore you have to additionally tamp them with a light hammer made of wood or rubber.
  2. Rigid plastic mounts have a similar design, but their connection requires effort to insert the board into the board. Hence the minus of this type of plastic locks is a complicated installation procedure.

Naturally, a laminate with a plastic lock does not inspire confidence among many owners, which is why the manufacturers took care of creating something more reliable.

Lock fastening Click

This method of fastening laminated panels has a significant advantage over Lock fastenings. Laminate fixes at an angle of 45 degrees with virtually no effort and time.

The locks in this case are more reliable, since they are almost impossible to damage when laying, and the connection of the planks is very tight and strong, which makes it possible to withstand very high loads. The highest quality Click-lock laminates are installed in such a way that the seams between adjacent boards are not even visible. It looks original in the photo and during visual inspection. See also: "How to lay flexible laminate - examples from practice."

The main advantages of such a system:

  • dual 45 degree mounts;
  • the highest durability of a flooring;
  • minimal risk of deformation of the locks;
  • possibly 6 times laying if it is necessary to repair or dismantle it for work in the thickness of floor coverings;
  • laying such a coating is easy and simple;
  • manufacturers claim that a laminate with such a connection can be laid on a base with irregularities of up to 3 millimeters per square meter.

Aluminum Click Locks

Features of aluminum locks created using the Click system:

  1. In addition to the fact that the laminate with aluminum locks is easy to install, it also has an increased strength of the joints due to a special groove in the panels. The use of metal as a material for the production of lock joints allows the joints to withstand heavy loads.
  2. It is this type of laminate that can withstand up to 6 laying and dismantling.
  3. The flooring turns out to be absolutely tight, which eliminates the risk of moisture getting into the thickness of the floor covering.
  4. You can lay such a coating on any base: screed, concrete slab, boardwalk, etc.

Naturally, a coating without defects will look aesthetically pleasing in the photo and during visual inspection. Aluminum locks will keep it as such for a very long period of time.

Outcome

This article discusses in detail what kind of locks are in the laminate and describes their features. The owner can only understand which option will be optimal for him, but, as practice shows, the choice is based only on cost. because if there is a sufficient amount of money, no one hesitates and buys a laminate with metal locks, or vice versa, if finances are limited.

The ease of installation, as well as the possibility of reusable laying and dismantling of the coating, allow you to put the choice of laminate much higher than other floor coverings. If there are difficulties during installation, you can always turn to specialists who, in addition to carrying out work, can also take responsibility for the acquisition necessary materials taking into account all the wishes of the customer.

polspec.com

Types of interlocks

Almost all panel coupling options are based on the tenon-groove system. The difference is the profiling of the lock system.

There are several main types:

  1. lock. The easiest option. The spike in the section has not a simple straight profile, but a complex figure. The groove under it has a complex shape. The panels are laid by horizontal pressing one into the other. The moment of fixation is a click. For a quality installation, tamping of the extreme web is required. A wooden mallet is used. You can use a regular one, but you will need a wooden block or a special finishing touch. Laminate with this type of lock is difficult to dismantle without destruction. Over time, under mechanical stress, the connection is erased, the panels diverge. Therefore, in addition, the processing of locks with sealant or glue is used. The surface under the laminate requires high quality. Otherwise, during operation, a situation of divergence of the canvases may occur.
  2. Click lock. Modernized previous view. The spike has a hook-shaped bend at the upper end, and a protrusion at the bottom closer to the panel. The groove repeats the shape of the protrusions. Fixation occurs when one panel is inserted into another at an angle. Swinging motion produce lowering to a horizontal position. At this moment, a characteristic click is heard. The lock worked. The connection is strong due to additional fixing protrusions. They are dismantled, the coatings are assembled up to 4 times.
  3. T-locks. Option developed by Tarkett. It combines two types of locking joints, which allows achieving maximum adhesion strength of the panels. When laying, the technology characteristic of Click-systems is used. Simplicity, reliability ensured great popularity of this type among professionals. The floor covering can be dismantled up to several times without damaging the locks.
  4. 5G. These types of lock systems have a plastic or metal insert in the middle that resembles a "tongue". Thanks to it, a tight connection of the canvases is ensured. The installation method is not difficult. The panel is inserted into the previous one in a horizontal position. When pressed, the insert is removed, when placed in the desired position, a click is heard indicating that the “tongue” has fallen into place, the position is fixed. Installation, dismantling will not cause difficulty even for a beginner.
  5. Mega Lock. Advanced fixation system based on 5G. Connect the locks on the laminate begin on the end side. Reliability of coupling is provided with an end insert. And already to the assembled length of the first strip with an offset, the second row is attached to the width. Assembly time is minimal compared to other types. Maximum durability and reliability. Mounting and dismounting up to 4 times is allowed. Another advantage is increased protection against moisture.
  6. ClickXpress lock. It differs by the rounded lower part of the spike, respectively, and the groove. Does not have plastic inserts. Works are carried out according to the principle of the Click system, at an angle. Dismantling, installation up to four times is possible.
  7. Uniclick lock. The spike and groove have a special profile that ensures a strong grip of the planks. Installation can be both at an angle and by knocking. Dismantling is carried out up to 4 times.
  8. aluminum locks. The most reliable connections. Withstand separation resistance up to 1200 kg/sq. m. Laying without a threshold is possible. Such a laminate has two types of lock - thorn-groove, aluminum on the bottom. A distinctive feature is that the joints between the canvases are practically invisible. Installation, dismantling is allowed up to 5 times.

Laying laminate without locks is becoming less and less popular due to the use of additional chemicals for fixing and the speed of work. Modern types of locks allow several times to increase the productivity and quality of the resulting surfaces.

Useful video: Overview of laminate locks

Conventionally, all laminate floor locks are divided into two groups according to the principle of Lock and Click. The first group is relatively inexpensive, providing quite reliable grip. The second belongs to the expensive segment, but the adhesion and quality of the resulting surface will be high. Each type of connection has pros and cons. For some, price is important, but for others, high quality and reliability.

If we compare what is better than Lock or Click, in terms of dismantling-mounting, then the first system is more prone to destruction of mounting profiles.

Preparing for laying

Any floor covering requires surface preparation. The best option is if a layer of quick-hardening self-leveling floors is applied to the rough screed. Such a basis will ensure the proper level of quality. After complete hardening of the preparatory layer, it is recommended to lay the waterproofing. To a greater extent, this applies to the first floors of apartment complexes, private housing.

  • Cork. The most expensive option, but environmentally friendly, hides small irregularities in the rough base, is not pressed under load. The disadvantages include high cost; destruction in a humid environment, with the "warm floor" system.
  • Polyethylene foam. A cheap option, has a low thermal conductivity, is resistant to moisture, the appearance of bacteria. Short-lived, pressed.
  • Styrofoam. A relatively inexpensive option, used when installing the "warm floor" system, it provides additional sound insulation. It compresses over time.

Depending on the budget, the best option is selected. The substrate is covered without overlapping each other. Fixing to the floor, gluing the seams is done with masking tape.

Important points before installation

Proper installation will be ensured if several nuances are provided:

  1. When buying, check with the seller whether additional protective impregnation of laminate locks is required or not. In the second case, you should purchase wax in advance. Processing is carried out prior to installation.
  2. Laminate must lie down for at least 2 days in the room where laying is planned. This will allow the material to absorb the microclimate of the room, dial the temperature. This will ensure minimal shrinkage in the future. A greater effect can be achieved by removing the factory packaging from the material.
  3. Installation is carried out from a window to a door. The end sides are directed towards the openings, and the long side towards the blank walls. This will reduce the visibility of the seams between the canvases.
  4. For Lock systems, provide for the purchase of a special metal lining. It will allow you to easily mount floor coverings, even against walls.
  5. Long rows are mounted offset. The first one starts with a long floorboard, the second - with a short one. This will ensure high-quality adhesion of the slats in different directions.
  6. Technical gaps near the walls should be from 5 to 10 mm. There are special fasteners. At the time of laying on the flooring, a mechanical effect is carried out. As a result, it can move close to the wall if they are not fixed.
  7. Before work, you need to prepare a cutting tool - a hacksaw for wood or a jigsaw. For proper cut quality, the tool must have minimum teeth.

Having provided all the points, you can safely take on the installation of panels.

Before work, read the installation instructions. Unpack the material, start laying with your own hands.

Lock systems are laid with padding both along the end and along the longitudinal part. The uniformity of the seams between the canvases should be observed. Another feature is the work with the last row. Often it is necessary to cut the width of the panels. A measurement is made taking into account the technical gap between the wall and the floor finish, marked, cut off. The canvas is inserted gently at a slight angle. With the help of a metal finisher, the seam is sealed to the desired size.

Laminate with click lock. Such systems do not require additional tools. The canvases are inserted into each other at an angle of 40–45 °, with a slight oscillatory movement they are taken to a horizontal position. At the same time, a click should sound.

Useful video: Laying laminate flooring with Click locks

5G systems, Megalock are distinguished by the simplest installation. The tenon groove is inserted in a horizontal position without finishing.

Laminate manufacturers offer a wide range of locking systems, which best determine the budget and reliability of the resulting flooring. If the locks diverge with a short service life, this indicates several reasons: poor-quality installation or a laminate lock (do not chase a low price), the base for the finish coat is poorly prepared.

The joints of laminated parquet are both the weakest and strongest part of the coating. A carefully thought-out locking system ensures a tight connection of the lamellas, easy assembly and, of course, obtaining a smooth, durable floor covering.

In 1979, the Swedish company Perstorp AB (in the future Pergo) introduced a new flooring to customers through the IKEA chain of stores - laminate. Since the technology was just being developed, the novelty did not yet have interlocks and even tongue-and-groove edges. The breakthrough came in 1994 when Välinges took out a patent for a unique development - the world's first mechanical joint for parquet, parquet and laminate flooring.

The actively developing giants of the woodworking industry became interested in the innovative technology. The first to buy the license was the laminate manufacturer Alloc, which introduced the so-called 1G aluminum lock. In the following 1995, the leaders of Kahrs became interested in the invention. This is the largest manufacturer of parquet boards, which to this day holds a leading position in the market. The modified connection system was called "lock 2G". In fact, this is a prototype of a coupling kit under the modern name Lock. That is, a connection according to the "thorn-groove" principle, but with a carefully designed compacted profile. When assembling the flooring with the Lock system, a special elastic adhesive was used.

Scheme of the first interlocks for laminate.

In the future, the structure of the connecting elements continues to be refined, and at the end of 2001 a patent for a locking system was published, in which two adjacent plates are joined at an angle of 45°, and after pressing (clicking) a mechanically tight bond is obtained. It is thanks to this development that the Click lock laminate, so famous today, is produced. From here begins the era of adhesive-free joining of floor tiles.

Such connection kits are intended for implementation in multilayer thin floor coverings: parquet board, engineered array, laminated HDF or PVC floor and others. For traditional parquet, vinyl or LVT tiles, solid board, simple tongue and groove joints are used.

Manufacturers of laminate flooring in advertising emphasize the adhesive-free locking system, which allows you to quickly, easily and without problems assemble or disassemble the floor. Another advantage is that special profile shapes form waterproof joints without the slightest gaps. But, in fact, there are the following basic types of laminate locks:

  1. Tongue-and-groove or Lock.
  2. Snap or Click.

All found names like T-Lock, Megalock, Click2Click, Uniclick and others are just replication of the main types with their own modifications. Nothing fundamentally new or unique has yet been developed. The patents for these improvements are issued in order to avoid pirated copying of products of well-known European factories by unscrupulous Asian compilers.

Laminate with an adhesive connection system is no longer produced, although occasionally you can find crafts by Chinese "masters" on sale. Consider the most interesting options from such giants as Egger, Quick Step, Balterio, Alloc.

Just Click by Egger

Laminate locks from an Austrian manufacturer are classics of the click system. The panels are snapped into place at an angle of 30-45° from four sides, and a sufficiently high ridge tenon ensures the tightness of the joint and the resistance of the connection to tensile and bending loads. The coating is available in a standard form and complete with Silenzio sound-diffusing underlay. The shape of the tongue and groove remains unchanged.

Uniclic by Quick Step

No less interesting is the development of the Belgian plant. The engineering profile provides the possibility of both classic snap-in at an angle, and the method of attaching or knocking down planks. This is The best decision for newbies.

The lock complex from Unilin is convenient for premises with a complex perimeter, the presence of hard-to-reach places or various "obstacles" - pipes, podiums, low-mounted radiators, etc.

To understand the essence of the three-way assembly system, watch the video from the manufacturer Quick Step.

PressXpress by Balterio

Similar laminate interlocks are called 3G, 4G, or 5G. That is, an element is added to the Click-joint structure - a plastic “tongue”, aluminum grips or protrusions that provide improved grip and prevent the slats from separating over time (the formation of longitudinal and transverse slots). One of the brightest representatives of this group is PressExpress from the Belgian plant Balterio. A well-designed “additive” to the main hitch eliminates even a hint of the appearance of gaps between the lamellas and significantly strengthens the joint area. Thanks to this solution, the finished flooring will withstand a significant weight without the slightest damage.

Let's note one shortcoming. According to the reviews of the craftsmen, when reassembling, plastic inserts become more of an interfering element than an auxiliary one, so they are most often removed with pliers. And to obtain a tight joint, sealing gels or sealing masses are used.

4G and 5G-S Aluminum Locking System by Berry Alloc

Laminate with aluminum locks from Alloc itself is unusual. Being a very successful modification of the two basic types of connections, the metal "thorn-groove" increases the reliability of the clutch and speeds up the assembly mechanism. In addition, this scheme allows you to reduce the weight of the floor covering, which is a significant plus for floors with reduced bearing capacity.

According to the manufacturer, the aluminum profile on both long sides of the bar, supplemented with a stiffener, increases the tensile strength of the connection. The limit according to the test reports is 1200 kg/r.m. m. That is why aluminum locks are used exclusively in class 33-34 flooring, designed for places with heavy foot traffic. It is allowed to disassemble and reassemble the floor covering 3 times.

Which laminate lock is better

Let's dispel the most popular myth that says that the best floor is obtained from a laminate flooring with a Click lock. In fact, flooring material with any type of interlock is designed in such a way as to end up with a perfectly smooth surface without protrusions, cracks and squeaks. Service life and build quality depends on:

  1. availability of original coverage from well-known brands;
  2. professionalism of stackers;
  3. strict adherence to instructions.

The Lock joint, unlike its analog, does not stretch so much over time, so the coating with a lock-lock is more convenient in reassembly. The click hitch is more rigid, but subject to the high density of the plate - at least 750 kg / m 3. Let's make it easier for our readers to choose - in large shopping centers, 85% of the assortment is a laminate with the Click system.

Let's break another stereotype. Some masters claim that the click-lock allows you to lay the laminate on the floor with differences that exceed the allowable 2 mm by 2 running meters surfaces. We will disappoint such unfortunate specialists - not a single type of connection is designed to smooth out significant irregularities, an even, solid foundation is always required. Only in this case you will get a smooth, beautiful and functional floor that will last at least two decades.

Advice! If you need repairmen, there is a very convenient service for their selection. Just send in the form below detailed description work that needs to be done and offers with prices from construction teams and firms will come to your mail. You can see reviews of each of them and photos with examples of work. It's FREE and there's no obligation.