Laminate- modern floor covering, which has received lately widespread in our country. Its popularity is explained by its high aesthetic and quality characteristics at an optimal price accessible to a buyer with an average level of income.
By many indicators laminated coating superior to natural floors.
The basis of the laminate design is HDF board high density, in the thickness of which a lock is cut, thanks to which the installation of the floor is simple and can be done by a person who does not have the skills of a builder-finisher. Exists large number castle structures, differing both in design and assembly technique. Many manufacturers develop their own locking systems, and some manufacturers use previously developed ones.
In this article we will give an overview of the main designs of laminate locking systems.
ProLoc lock
The ProLoc system is developed and patented by Pergo. The system has a triple locking system, installation of the laminate is simple, the joints are treated with wax impregnation. The lock perfectly holds the panels in tight contact and can withstand heavy loads. This is one of the most reliable locks.
SmartLock
The SmartLock system is a simpler version of ProLoc. The connecting elements of the laminate are also impregnated with water-repellent impregnation. The locking system is reliable and can withstand heavy loads. Ensures easy installation with excellent end results.
PROClic lock
PROClic is an innovative development by Egger. It features a special geometry that allows you to lay one element at a time. It has high resistance to point loads and pressure strength.
ClickXpress lock
ClickXpress is developed by the Balterio concern. The system is truly revolutionary. Allows you to assemble laminate very quickly, while panel joints are difficult to find. The lock allows you to repeatedly install and dismantle the floor if necessary.
Uniclic lock
The unique Uniclic system is developed by Quick Step. Different original design elements. Assembly of the panels is simple and convenient. The panel is inserted into another panel along the long side at an angle of 20-30°, then the assembled row is inserted into the previously assembled one and snaps into place. Assembly requires 2 people.
Megaloc Castle
Megaloc - development German manufacturer Classen. This is an innovative invention that allows you to speed up the laminate assembly process by 3 times. On end side panel has an additional movable plastic lock. Assembly is carried out along the long side, as usual, and on the short side, just press on the board and it will snap into place without effort. Installation can be done by 1 person. The edges are impregnated with wax protection.
ConnectSystem lock
ConnectSystem is another development from Classen. The system has gained great popularity due to its unique streamlined shape. It smooths out unevenness in the base thanks to movable joints at the joints, compensating for the tension between the laminated panels. IsoWaxx wax edge protection protects joints from moisture penetration.
LocTec lock
The LocTec system is Witex's own development. Has high strength values. This is one of the strongest locks. All edges are treated with wax impregnation, which protects the joints from moisture.
T-Lock
The T-Lock system is a development by Tarkett, which has become widespread in the flooring market. Many manufacturers have adopted this lock. The system very reliably fixes the panels in tight contact. Assembling is carried out along the long sides, then the assembled row is inserted at an angle into the previous row and snaps into place with light pressure until it clicks.
Based on materials from the site http://interier-nn.ru/tovar.php?id_vid=1&pathVid=laminat - online laminate store.
Laminate is the most popular floor covering, which even an inexperienced apartment owner can lay on the floor themselves. Laminate flooring can be laid or interlocked.
Ease lock laying is provided by a system of locks that are specially designed for convenience, ensuring a strong connection of the boards, and long-term operation flooring. Currently, the main type of fastening of laminate boards is locking.
Types of laminate locks
The most common locking connections for laminate boards are Click, Lock, 5G, of which there are many subtypes. Replacement MDF boards on HDF slabs allows using milling machines to produce locks more complex shapes, providing strong long-term adhesion of floor elements.
Click system
The most common one has some undeniable advantages. A special feature of the lock is that the next board to be closed must be located at an angle of 45° to the previous one. The protrusion is inserted into the grooves at an angle and snaps into place by bringing the board into a horizontal position.
The locking system allows you to assemble and disassemble the floor several times without damaging the slats.
There are several subtypes of this locking system, one of which is metal locks. They include aluminum plates that secure the panels underneath. Laying laminate flooring with metal locks is more complex technology, and can be damaged by aluminum plates.
Varieties
- Egger laminate (Germany) has the Pro Click system. The lamella itself has a geometry that allows the coating to be laid on one side. The lock provides high connection strength, high quality styling The coating can be assembled and disassembled several times. , can be provided high stability locking connections to moisture.
- Laminate Tarkett (Russia) with T-Lock. It combines the advantages Click systems with an additional possibility of closing using the Lock system. This locking system is used for these coverings. Slats with such connections are easy to install; they simply click along their length at a slight angle. The lock allows reuse 3-4 times.
Lock system (drive-in)
This is a tongue-and-groove connection system, the most economical, produced by milling MDF or HDF boards in height. One side of the plank has a groove with a locking ridge, and the other has a tenon. The slats are connected in a horizontal position by driving a tenon into the groove with a rubber mallet or hammer through a wooden block attached to the opposite side of the board.
The disadvantage of this lock connection is that the coating cannot be disassembled without damaging the connection. In addition, over time, such coatings develop noticeable gaps between the lamellas. The production of such locking connections is gradually being reduced.
Manufacturers are trying to improve connections by inserting rigid or springy plastic elements. But plastic elements are also not ideal; they are difficult to saw and can crack. When installing boards with rigid plates, it is necessary to insert the next panel into the previous one with a longitudinal movement, which complicates the work.
Varieties
- Prego laminate (Belgium) is produced with two types of locks: ProLoc and SmsrtLock. The ProLoc system is designed for large floor areas that are designed to withstand heavy loads. It is a triple fastening system. All locks are impregnated with hydrophobic compounds to increase resistance to moisture. The floor can be assembled and disassembled many times, since the lock structure is such that it is difficult to damage during assembly and disassembly.
SmartLock is a simpler lock impregnated with a hydrophobic liquid. It can be mounted at any angle, the coating is of high quality and can withstand increased loads.
- Classen laminate (Germany) with Megaloc lock, which is considered the strongest in locking systems. The slats are connected using a tongue and groove. The lock is easy to install and very reliable.
5G locks
More durable, lighter and more precise assembly of laminate boards is possible when using boards with 5G interlocking joints. In this type of joint, the boards are joined in a horizontal position. The previous board is lifted slightly, the next one is brought under it, the connection occurs simultaneously along the length and width of the board using a tongue specially located at the end of the board, which helps fasten one board to another.
Such floor coverings can be disassembled and reassembled several times. Experienced builders prefer this type of locking connections to others, since it is the simplest and provides high speed styling
Varieties
Balterio laminate (Belgium) with PressXpress locking system. Laminate boards are installed with a simple push. The groove placed inside the lamella ensures reliable fixation and the absence of visible gaps.
Types of laminate locks, which one is better
Laminate interlocking joints have their positive and negative qualities.
Locks:
- disassembly and reassembly possible;
- provides a strong connection between the boards;
- optimal price of material.
Disadvantage: with prolonged use and heavy loads on the floor, as a result of friction at the joints of the slats, the comb wears out, the contacts between the slats deteriorate, and cracks form that cannot be eliminated.
Click locks:
- strong connection of planks;
- double fastening located at an angle of 45°;
- possibility of repeated disassembly without damaging the locks;
- simplicity and ease of installation;
- Can be used with base curvature up to 3 mm per 1 m.
When choosing which type of lock is better, listen to the opinion of experts; they recommend the Click system. It is optimal in terms of strength, ease of installation, and price of material. The system allows you to assemble and disassemble the canvas up to 6 times, and, if necessary, replace damaged floor fragments. The boards will not come apart over time even with heavy load on the floor.
Variety of sizes, colors and textures. This does not limit the choice of laminate flooring. An additional factor in deciding to purchase a particular material may be the connection system. Let's look at the most popular types of laminate locks that provide the necessary technical requirements on installation. We will also figure out what kind of locking system would be better suited for each specific case. And finally, we will give some recommendations for installation and maintenance.
Several decades have passed since the creation of such a coating as laminate. During this time, technology has changed a lot, and this also applies to locks. Every 2-3 years, manufacturers introduce a new type of connection, arguing for improved stability and ease of installation. However, each prototype comes down to two basic ones: Lock and Click. Let's look at them in more detail.
The most popular dismountable systems that have won recognition from installation experts. For each of these types of locks, there are many subtypes. Some of them can be found only from certain manufacturers, while others, on the contrary, are in service with most well-known laminate manufacturers.
Both basic systems are based on a tongue-and-groove connection. The difference is only in the profiling of the connecting parts.
Which lock is better Lock or Click
Let's make a comparison based on the characteristics that are most relevant to the buyer.
- cheaper;
- tight connection.
- at long-term use(with deviation from installation and operation standards), gaps may appear between the lamellas;
- a more complex installation process using a mallet and tamping strip;
- possibility of damage to the lock during installation.
- ease of installation;
- installation is carried out without additional tools;
- increased strength;
- During operation, the lock does not wear out and cracks do not appear;
- a tight connection is ensured when using double locks;
- Possibility of installation on an imperfectly flat surface;
- safe assembly with minimal likelihood of damaging the lock;
- possibility of re-coupling after dismantling the coating.
Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of both systems below.
Lock locks
Translated from English name connection is translated as “lock”. This method fastening laminated panels is one of the very first. Currently, this type of surface closure is technologically outdated.
The mating surfaces are a groove on one side and a tenon on the other, which are cut with a milling cutter on the load-bearing layer of the board.
The installation principle is as follows:
- A board placed on the floor is attached with a board attached at an angle of 0°.
- A tamping block is placed on the opposite side of the lamella.
- By lightly hitting the block with a mallet, we achieve tight contact until the gap is eliminated.
Advice: tamping should be done carefully, without extra effort, since when strong blows Using a mallet is likely to damage the lock.
In case correct installation connection, the tenon fits completely into the groove, the comb locks into the tenon in the recess and prevents adjacent panels from coming out of the coupling. This type a lock is also called a hammer lock.
The weak link of the structure is the comb, which takes on most of the stress. The mating of the groove and the tenon is quite tight, however, with frequent loads on the lock, the comb wears out. Later, cracks appear at the attachment site. This defect cannot be eliminated without dismantling and subsequent replacement of the panel.
But this defect can be prevented. To do this, it is necessary to install the laminate on a perfectly flat surface, eliminating tiny particles construction waste and the use of backing material that will not cause severe subsidence during operation. Otherwise, any “pebble” under the covering will create additional stress in the lock, shortening the life of your floor covering.
Otherwise, although the technology is outdated. This type of lock for laminate flooring provides all the necessary performance properties, subject to proper installation and further use. However, manufacturers prefer the Click system, so find “ old version“It’s becoming more and more difficult (if we’re not talking about Chinese counterfeits, but about certified manufacturers).
Click locks
Relatively new technology, according to which the panels are fixed by means of snapping. The main distinguishing features of Lock, not counting the installation method, is a different form of tongue with a profiled groove for it.
The spike is also located on the supporting plate and looks like a small hook.
The installation method is as follows:
- The mounted panel is brought to the board laid on the floor at an angle of 45°. Angle may vary different manufacturers, so it is necessary to clarify this point.
- The hook is driven into the groove.
- The panel lowers to the horizontal.
- A characteristic click is heard and the connection is complete.
It is because of this click that the system got its name.
During installation there is no need for additional tools. Special effort You don’t need to apply it, you don’t need to finish it off with a mallet or hammer either. Otherwise, the locking edge may be damaged.
Note: If, when fixing the plank, a small gap remains, then to remove it it is necessary to lightly tap with a mallet on a previously placed block or other laminate board. This must be done carefully so as not to damage the locking element.
This type The connection is characterized by good density and performance properties - the retaining edge in the groove practically does not wear out over time. Therefore, such a laminate will last a long time without the appearance of gaps and cracks.
Also, the canvas assembled using the Click system can be reassembled. However, it is worth considering that during its service life, the laminate takes on the smallest unevenness of the floor, and in a new place the adhesion may not be so tight, even taking into account the numbering of the boards.
The Click method does not require such strict restrictions on the evenness of the surface on which it is laid (unlike Lock), but this does not mean that there is no need to level the base. Smooth base for laminate – prerequisite during installation.
Let's look at several subtypes of the Click system that are most popular.
Uniclic
Mainly represented by the Quick Step brand. Installation can be done by simple snapping - to do this, just bring one panel to the other at an angle of 25-30° and fix it. There is also the possibility of horizontal laying with tamping joints, for laying in the last row. 
It has quite good strength properties. Withstands tensile loads up to 450 kg per linear meter.
Pros of the system:
- the lock latches without significant effort;
- reassembly is possible;
- laying both from left to right and from right to left;
- moisture treatment.
Cons:
- Over time, the lock may move apart along the end of the bar due to the low ridge in the groove.
JUST click and UNI fit
Patented systems under the Egger brand.
JUST click replaced Pro clic. Unlike its predecessor, assembly of the entire row is required. The plank has two identical tongues and two identical grooves, which allows for interlocking on both sides. Has a high assembly speed. 
The groove and tenon are profiled in the form of a conjugate oval, which ensures tighter contact over a larger contact area. The gaps in the lock are minimal, so even the smallest debris is not allowed - check before installing the strip.
Lamella with lock UNI fit can be fixed to the previous row separately, that is, there is no need to assemble a whole row for subsequent fastening. The tenons and grooves on the end and long side are different. 
SmartLock and ProLock
Both options are presented by Pegro. SmartLock is a more primitive version in terms of profiling - there is no one additional retaining element on the top of the groove. Due to this, a lower contact density is observed. 
Majority modern models Pergo laminates are equipped with the ProLock system. Locks of both types have a moisture-repellent impregnation, which, coupled with a massive wood-fiber board base, makes this coating well protected from moisture (for even better protection seam sealants are used).
ClickXPress, DropXPress, PressXPress
Represented by the Balterio brand.
ClickXPress It is a tongue-and-groove joint with the lower part profiled in the form of an oval joint. Laying is done at an angle of 45°. 
The advantages of this connection include:
- reliability;
- strength;
- invisible high-quality seam;
- reassembly;
DropXPress is not inherently a Click lock. The connection profile consists of two L-shaped hooks. The hitch is held due to the weight of the laminate panel and the force of friction, since the lowering of the board at an angle of 0° from top to bottom occurs with tension. 
This method has its advantages:
- increased laying speed;
- ease of installation
- identical locks for the end and long part
PressXPress- fastenings with a counter-element, part of the new generation 5g. When the board is seated in the groove, the fastening element is displaced, which is driven into the recess. Thus, the effort required for installation is minimal. 
Advantages of the castle:
- increased installation speed;
- strong connection;
- invisible seam;
- Possibility of installation at any angle.
In 2017, a new connection was presented at the Domotex exhibition FitXPress, which will be used on Balterio laminate Magnitude series, replacing PXP. The difference between the locks is the shape of the latch tongue. 
Megaloc
Used on Classen laminate. It is a modification of the 5g system. Replaced the outdated EasyConnect model. The locking tongue is located in the groove, and not on the tongue. Just like the Pergo coating, a wax impregnation is used for moisture insulation. 
Installation is carried out in separate panels, and not in a row at once. The boards are laid at an angle until they click. The work can be done alone without outside help. If necessary, disassembling the connection is not difficult.
T-lock, 2-lock, TC-lock
Presented by Tarkett brand
T-lock- satisfied with the old technology, on at the moment quite common, but is being replaced modern systems. It has a relatively small panel joining angle of about 20-25°.
Laying may require the participation of several people, since it is necessary to install entire panels in rows. If there is the slightest shift in one of the boards, you will have to disassemble the entire row and start the process all over again.
The disadvantages include:
- the joint is visible on the end part of the laminate, especially in dark colors;
- at reuse The lock along the long part of the lamella may become deformed.
2-Lock- more new model. Has a plastic tab to secure the connection. Allows quick and easy installation even by one person - assembly is carried out not in a row, but one panel at a time. 
TC-lock is a T-lock receiver. Has everything greater distribution. The cost does not exceed its predecessor. Unfortunately, old collections cannot be combined with new system TC-lock due to height difference.
Perhaps this is the only negative, let’s focus on the advantages:
- There is a tighter contact during coupling, therefore, the likelihood of moisture getting into the locking joint is reduced;
- very good strength characteristics - the level of tensile load exceeds the norm by 8 times;
- quick and easy assembly;
- One person can do the installation.
TwinClic
Presented by the Russian brand Kronospan. In essence it is an analogue of T-lock. It is also not possible to install one panel at a time - it is necessary to assemble the entire row, which is not always convenient, especially when the installation is carried out by one person. 
When fixing the board into the groove, there is no pronounced click. It is better not to use this type of lock for laying laminate flooring throughout the entire apartment, as there is a possibility of the joints lifting under load.
On laminate models located in low price category, very poor protection against moisture.
LocTec
Patented lock system Witex laminate. Refers to high-strength connections. Fairly easy assembly allows you to work alone. The installation process should not be difficult. The result is a smooth floor covering without visible seams.
The joints are impregnated with a special water-repellent mastic.
Alloc
Presented by a Norwegian flooring manufacturer. The quality is up to the mark. Has an aluminum insert. It has excellent strength properties, therefore it is most often used on commercial laminate of classes 33 and 34, which is intended for installation in places with increased operational load. 
Especially noticeable advantage becomes stronger in large rooms. For such places, it is possible to lay laminate flooring without thresholds over the entire area. For ordinary apartments, installing such a coating is not advisable, since the high price exceeds the benefits that are not destined to be revealed at home.
Lock processing
Most modern laminate models are protected from moisture in the form of impregnation of the lock joint with wax, paraffin, or special mastic. If for some reason you purchased panels that are not subject to this procedure, then you can perform simple manipulations yourself that will increase protection from moisture.
Such formulations are available in liquid or paste forms. It doesn't really matter what consistency you choose. The main thing is that you feel comfortable using the composition.
Advice: If possible, you should buy laminate flooring that protects the locks from moisture.
You can also use sealant to join the panels. In this case, several positive effects can be observed:
- increased protection against moisture;
- a tighter connection is made;
- If necessary, you can disguise the seams.
Modern laminate models are equipped with convenient locks that allow you to high-quality joint. In addition, most of them have water-repellent properties and do not require additional processing.
Experienced craftsmen perform installation for any system without loss of connection quality. If you are a beginner, then when choosing the type of laminate locks, preference should be given to models from the 5g generation with a fixing polymer tongue. In this case, installation will be done quickly and easily, even alone.
At the turn of the 70-80s of the last century, laminate quickly broke into the “premier league” of flooring and finishing coverings. The history of its origin, known as “Idea 77,” is associated with the purchase by a Swedish company of a plant for the production of composite coatings. The Swedes experimented with everything they could get their hands on: they laminated wall panels, countertops, and window sills. During another brainstorming session on how to laminate more, someone came up with the idea to take on the floors. A couple of years later, IKEA stores introduced the Swedes to a new product - laminate flooring, which was a dizzying success, first in the Swedish and then in the world market.
The name of the company that developed the laminate is remembered only by specialists; the laminate itself has changed beyond recognition, but its popularity remains enormous. Affordable price, practicality, functionality, good noise and sound insulation characteristics, easy maintenance, a huge variety of patterns applied to decorative layer of this flooring by manufacturers in the struggle for the buyer - these are the components of the success of the laminate.
Today, laminate is a multilayer panel, each layer of which is “responsible” for solving different problems:
The lower one protects against deformation.
The carrier determines the noise and sound insulation qualities, moisture resistance and fastens the panels together with a lock during installation.
Decorative is made of PVC film or special kraft paper. A drawing is applied to this layer.
A top layer of melamine or acrylate resin protects the flooring from damage. The resin can be applied several times, which directly affects the service life of the coating.
The evolution of laminate over the years has also affected the methods of joining panels when laying them into a monolithic floor structure. The adhesive method is practically disappearing from the scene; today the locking method dominates the market. With the locking method, a tenon on the edge of a laminate panel fits into a groove on another panel. The advantages of this method in comparison with the adhesive method are obvious: the installation speed has increased, the need to prepare has disappeared adhesive composition, there are no odors from glue in the room. The main advantage is castle method makes it possible to disassemble the floor covering and lay it another 3-4 times (Click locks). There are several types of locks for laminate flooring.
Lock Lock
A lock for laminate flooring made using the tongue-and-groove principle is called Lock. A tenon is cut out with a milling cutter in one of the sides of the load-bearing layer, and a groove with a comb is cut out on the other side. Place a piece of timber or a die against the panel laid on the floor, and with a wooden mallet, carefully drive the tenon into the groove until it is completely seated and the gap between the two adjacent panels disappears. The comb in the groove will prevent the tenon from coming out. This is why this type of lock is also called a hammer lock. The Lock appeared earlier than other locking connections for laminate flooring and today is considered a less technically advanced solution.
A relatively weak point is the comb in the groove, which begins to wear out during operation under the influence of periodically occurring loads. Wear on the lock will cause a gap to appear in this area. Such a defect cannot be repaired. To be fair, it must be said that accelerated wear of the comb occurs when the requirements for the base on which the laminate is laid are not met. And here a paradoxical situation arises between this problem and another “disadvantage” of the Lock-lock.
This “disadvantage” lies in the certain complexity of laying the covering with a lock of this type. It is recommended to entrust the laying work to professionals, because you should use the mallet very carefully, adjusting the force of impact. And at the same time constantly monitor the joints of the panels. However, before installation begins, a professional will inform the owner of the premises that the base for the laminate is of poor quality and problems will arise during operation. And with a properly constructed base, the service life of the locking connection will be close to the service life of the panels.
Click lock
Further improvement of laminate locks was marked by the appearance of the Click locking system. This lock differs from its predecessor Lock-lock in the shape of the tongue. The tongue in this case is also made by milling and has the shape of a flattened hook. The panels are applied to each other at an angle (usually the angle is 45°, but it may differ from one manufacturer to another). The panel with the tongue is lowered, the tongue engages with the groove and a characteristic sound is heard. This sound gave the castle its name - Click.
There is no need to apply much effort when connecting the panels; there is no need to hit the panels with a mallet. They are securely fixed; during installation, the locks remain intact even if the person working with the coating makes a mistake. Reliable connection adjacent panels and the resulting constant voltage, protect the lock from abrasion throughout its entire service life. Accordingly, gaps between the panels do not appear over time. The undoubted advantage of the Click locking system is the ability to disassemble the floor covering and reassemble it. And so on up to 3-4 times.
T-LOCK and 5g locks
Manufacturers continue to improve laminate locks and develop new modifications. Thus, the Tarkett company has patented a system in which the lock is cut with a milling cutter in the load-bearing layer of the panel using Click technology. Fundamental difference consists in the presence of a lock on the long and end sides. Laying repeats the steps of connecting the panels with a Click-lock - the new panel is brought to the already laid floor at an angle of 45°, lowered and snapped into place.
The next improvement to the laminate lock is the 5g system. TO various options All leading manufacturers came up with such a lock - the goal was to further simplify the installation process without losing the strength and quality of the connection. A movable tongue was installed at the end of the panel, which ensured simultaneous connection of the panel along the long and short sides. On the long side the panel is brought in at an angle, and on the end it is simply placed on top and lowered until the tongue clicks.
Megalock lock
A type of lock for 5g laminate is a system from the German company Classen. The first row of panels is laid lengthwise, the next row is applied at an angle in order to insert the tongue into the groove of the laid panel, after which the panel is lowered and the lock is latched in the end part. Dismantling the laid laminate, if necessary, is easy to do.
Aluminum locks
The Swedes invented laminate; their Norwegian neighbors developed an aluminum locking system for it. The traditional tongue-and-groove connection of the Lock-lock is complemented by a lock on an aluminum profile. The tongue of this lock fits into a second groove in the adjacent board. Aluminum profile can be located at the bottom of the board or located in the supporting layer. The double connection avoids deformation and the appearance of joints during installation and during operation. An aluminum lock can withstand a breaking force of one ton or more. In addition, such laminate locks provide additional protection for the floor covering from moisture.
Treating locks with sealant during installation
Leading manufacturers produce laminates with additional protection of seams from moisture using wax compounds. This applies to laminate class 32 and 33. Seams should be protected when laying with sealant in cases where they are not covered with wax.
Modern sealants have high strength and elasticity, can be used in a wide temperature range, help prevent squeaks and gaps, and are easy to use.
In addition to components designed to fight fungus and mold, and various mechanical additives, dyes are added to modern sealants. Therefore, the sealant does not require additional painting to match the laid laminate after application.
Conclusion
The durability of the entire floor structure largely depends on the quality of the laminate locks. And her appearance. In addition, a skillfully selected type of lock will significantly simplify the process of laying flooring.
Laminate lock determines the method of connecting its boards. The basic design principle of the lock is a tongue-and-groove connection. The end of one long part of the laminate board has a groove, the other has a tenon. The short ends of the laminate have various designs, including those other than the tongue-and-groove type. Let's look at everything in order.
Laminate lock - three lock designs, three ways to connect its boards
Assembly at an angle. With this assembly, one laminate board is inserted at an angle of 25-30° into the groove of another board and then lowered.
Figure A
Assembly in the horizontal plane of the floor, otherwise assembly by padding. During this assembly, the tenon is driven into a groove in the horizontal plane of the floor by hitting a special mounting block with a hammer.
Figure B
Combined method. With this assembly, the board is first inserted at an angle, then lowered and tapped. Tapping is carried out using a block along the end or with a rubber hammer on the front side of the laminate board.
But it would be strange if manufacturing companies stopped there. Some manufacturers not only make unique laminate locks, but also change the design of the locks on the short side of the board, which also affects the way it is assembled.
Almost all laminate manufacturers provide installation instructions for their collections. Often instructions are available in the manufacturer's language. In this case, as well as if any translations are necessary, use the Kharkov translation agency.
Let's look at the types of "short" laminate lock
A short lock is a lock on the short side of a laminate board. Depending on the type of short lock, the laminate is assembled in different ways
- Short lock Laminate Lock, is connected by “driving” one board into another.
The short lock of the Click laminate is connected at an angle, without tamping. With this type of laminate lock, a whole row is first assembled (Figure 1), and then the entire row is connected at an angle to the adjacent row (Figure 2).
FIGURE 1
FIGURE 2
New type of “short” laminate lock. It does not require any tamping or assembly at an angle. It is connected by simply clicking the locks of the two boards. A finger press or a light blow is enough to snap into place.
I will give examples of locks and briefly talk about the assembly of various leading laminate manufacturers. At the end of the article I will illustrate all the videos about laminate locks.
Types of patented laminate locks
You can see the types of laminate locks on its packaging, and read about them now.
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This is a Quick-Step lock. The strong grip allows you to disassemble and reassemble the floor up to 4 times. Tensile strength up to 950 kg per 1 linear meter. Double assembly type, possible at an angle, possible in a horizontal plane with padding. You can assemble the laminate tenon into a groove (as in the picture) and vice versa - groove into a tenon.
Laminate lock Proloc plus Perfektfold
Locks from Pergo. Double lock: Proloc on the long side of the board, for assembly at an angle without padding and Perfektfold on the short side.
The Perfektfold lock is designed in such a way that there is no need to tamp the boards; to connect along the short side, snapping is enough.
AluminumLocking laminate lock
Lock from Alloc (Norway). This is a reinforced lock. In addition to the tongue-and-groove connection, the laminate boards are connected with an aluminum lock located at the bottom. This lock increases tensile strength to 120 kg per linear meter. Assembly and disassembly up to 5 times. The unique thing about this castle is that you can collect large areas laminate without expansion joints.
Laminate lockLocTec
Witex company. Laminate assembly at an angle. The locks are impregnated with paraffin.
Lock laminate ProClick
Egger company. Assembly of the long part at an angle, the short part snaps into place. Can be used with seam sealant.
Laminate lockClick Xpress
Laminate Balterio. A good lock for assembly at an angle, without tamping.
Laminate locks Smart Lock and Pro Lock
Pergo locks for residential and commercial premises. Assembly, both at an angle (Figure A above) and with padding (Figure B above).
Lock laminateMega Lock
Made by Classen. Assembly type is angled on the long side and snap on the short side. The latch feature makes connection so simple that productivity is tripled. Another feature of this lock is its increased moisture resistance.
TitanTriLook laminate lock
The assembly of a laminate with such a lock is different from others. The board is inserted with tongues in the floor horizon into another board and is knocked down without blows to the end. And blows with a rubber hammer on the front side of the laminate. These were the most common laminate locks, but there are more complex designs. The video shows one of them.
At the end of the article there are some tips from the section, do not harm the connection of laminate locks
- Be especially careful when connecting the first three rows of laminate flooring. They must be perfectly smooth without gaps at the joints. From correct installation The quality of the entire floor depends on the first three rows.
- If you are hammering the laminate on the face side with a rubber hammer, do not hold the hammer by the middle of the handle. Rubber hammer you need to hold it by the edge. The blow will be light and rebound.
- Do not hit with a hammer in the area of 20-30 mm from the laminate seams. The internal structure of the lock may be damaged.
- To tamp the board along the end side, use a special block. If you don't have a block, take a piece of laminate. Insert the tongue of the piece into the groove of the board being tapped and hit the piece with a hammer. Do not skein directly along the edge of the laminate. Chip is inevitable.
That's all about laminate locks! Walk on the beautiful floor!