Modern views Laminate locks are a structural part of the laminated board, which is responsible for connecting the lamellas to each other. The service life depends on how well the lock is made and how well the coating laying technology is followed. flooring.
Most famous brands and brands They offer their own locking system, designed for a specific type of laminate or a specific collection. In general, almost all locks are a derivative or a modernized version of two classical types– “Click” or “Lock”.
“Lock” type fastening systems
Lock type connections require more thorough preparation of the subfloor
The “Lock” type of connection is a standard “tenon and groove” principle. The laminate panel has a recess with a comb on one side, and a protrusion that follows the shape of the comb on the other.
Installation of laminate occurs by hammering the board to be laid into an already laid panel at an angle of 90 degrees using a mallet and a tamping block. As a result, the panels are brought together, forming an invisible joint.
Among the significant disadvantages of this type of lock are:
- weakening of the connection - over time, especially with low-quality laminate, the panels may diverge at the junction. This problem is partially solved by applying a sealing compound, which also protects the connection from the penetration of moisture and water;
- installation technology - if you have no experience in installing laminate, it is quite easy to damage the “tenon” of the panel when hammering in the lamella. It is better to entrust the work to a professional or practice on the scraps that will remain after adjusting the panels.
The occurrence of problems with loosening of the locking connection can be minimized by carefully leveling the subfloor and using a high-quality damping underlay.
“Lock” locks are gradually losing popularity to their higher-quality counterparts, but some manufacturers still use them, especially when producing cheap collections.
“Click” fastening systems
The “Click” type locking connection is made in the form of a groove with a protruding element on one side of the panel and a tongue shaped like a hook on the other side of the panel.
Installation of a laminate with such a lock is carried out by placing the laid sheet into the groove of the laid panel at an angle of 45 degrees. The angle may have different values depending on the manufacturer.
Next, the panel is lowered to the floor surface, an improvised hook clings to the comb in the groove and closes. If the connection is tight, a characteristic sound resembling a “click” or faint click may occur.
Click systems create a stronger and more durable connection
Among the advantages of such a lock are the following:
- Durability – the percentage of defects during installation and operation of laminate flooring with the “Click” system is quite small. During operation, the lock does not come apart, does not creak, or become loose.
- Service life - even after 7-10 years of use of the coating, the locks do not diverge at the joints, which provides a tight connection that partially prevents the ingress of dust, dirt and moisture.
- Possibility of dismantling - if necessary, laminate with a “Click” lock can be dismantled and re-laid without significant risk to the coating.
It is worth noting that these benefits apply only to branded panels. Chinese counterfeits or coatings that do not meet international standards rarely last the stated service life and become unusable when you try to dismantle them.
The “Click” locking system served as the basis for the development of proprietary connections from many manufacturers. Often castles are supplemented locking system, allowing you to install the coating by simply pressing the edge of the panel.
For example, there is a 5G laminate locking system that has a similar shunt and groove design. In the recess of the shunt (from the end) there is a closing “tongue”, which is pressed under pressure, and after the elements fit tightly, it closes.
Which lock is better - expert opinion
If you carry out detailed comparison, then the “Click” type lock is significantly superior to the “Lock” type connection. This is a modern fastening system that allows you to fix laminate boards more efficiently and more firmly.
The flooring after laying the laminate with the “Click” lock forms almost monolithic slab without a joint visible to the naked eye. The strength of the joint, in turn, guarantees trouble-free operation of the laminated cladding during the stated period.
If we consider the question from the point of view of which laminate lock is better or which system to choose from existing options, it all depends on the budget and allocated funds. Manufacturers such as Tarkett, Kronospan, Classen offer their solutions, which are based on click or 5G systems.
General comparison of two popular connection types
Tarkett has a T-Lock connection that combines classic version“tenon and groove” and “Click”. When laying the panel is positioned under small angle, presses slightly and at the same time lowers to the floor. Laminate flooring with such a lock is easy to install even without extraneous tools. To dismantle the panel, simply perform the reverse steps.
Kronospan laminate has a lock with a brand name - 1clic2go. When installing, just align the locking cutouts and lightly press the panel. This allows you to finish the flooring in a room in record time. It is almost impossible to somehow damage the laminate during work.
Classen products are equipped with a connection called Megalock. This is a proprietary variation of the 5G lock. At the end of the panel there is a shaped power layer, which opens when the panels fit tightly. Installation, as in other cases, takes place without special tools.
When choosing a laminate, always consider lock connection from the point of view of simplicity and reliability of design. Laminate with 5G lock and its variants is most preferable for rooms where dismantling or re-installation of the flooring will not be carried out in the next 10-12 years.
For re-installation, it is better to use laminate with a simple “Click” lock. Especially if the relaying of the coating will be done once or in case of urgent need to eliminate any problem.
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, 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 the decorative layer of this flooring by manufacturers in the fight 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 on the panel laid on the floor, and with a wooden mallet, carefully drive the tenon into the groove until it full landing and the disappearance of the gap between two adjacent panels. 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 different manufacturers it may differ). 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 of adjacent panels and the resulting constant pressure, 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. The aluminum profile can be located at the bottom of the board or located in the load-bearing 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.
The lock of the laminate is the most important indicator of quality; its execution largely determines general form coverings. Having a good lock will allow you to get closer to the answer to the question: “which laminate is better.”
Patented by the Quick-Step concern. The locking system is very convenient when laying laminate flooring in doorways, corners and confined spaces. The board can be snapped using the standard method, at an angle of 25-30 degrees, or by laying the board completely on the floor, using the tamping method.
Another undeniable advantage is the ability to lay and snap boards both on the left and on the right, which is important in complex room configurations. The boards click into place very easily, with a characteristic clear click. Treatment against moisture penetration is present.
According to the manufacturer, the system allows you to repeatedly disassemble the boards without damaging them. In my fifteen years of practice, the only time I encountered a customer’s desire to remove old laminate and move it to the dacha. In any case, the laminate is deformed during use and takes on unevenness in the floor; assembly in a new place is possible, but it will no longer be of such high quality, even if the boards are numbered. The declared function is useful primarily during normal installation by a novice master, when repeated separation of the boards during the fitting process is inevitable.
After assembly, the surface is perfectly smooth without the slightest difference in height or gaps. Small minus of this type lock - the ability to diverge along the short side of the boards. Connected with a very small protrusion of the latch at the bottom, visible in the photo.
LockT-Lock and 2-Lock
It was produced and is still on sale by the Tarkett concern (it is being replaced by a new lock). Feature— a large angle of elevation of the board during installation is not required; an angle of 20-25 degrees is sufficient. T-Lock is well-known, but at the same time quite old, requiring assembly of the entire series. For one person, this is a time-consuming task, and sometimes impossible. At length ordinary room six meters, the slightest shift of any panel at the end joint, left or right, will require dismantling the entire row. Also, transverse joints are often visible,
Moreover, this feature is observed in different collections. This defect is most noticeable in collections of dark tones. During installation, you can feel the moment when the board has settled into place, although not as clearly as with Quick-Step. In our work, in the vast majority of cases, we use a laminate with a thickness of 8 millimeters for longitudinal locks, the protrusion is rather weak - often, when snapping it again, it breaks off. Moisture protection is proprietary - Tech3s.
The 2-Lock lock has a plastic insert, provides high assembly performance, plus the ability to work alone.
Lock - TC'Lock
Lock from TARKETT, which replaced the T-Lock. As sales progress, all laminate collections are transferred to the new lock, and without any increase in price. The old and new lock are not compatible; there will be a difference in height of about 0.4 mm.
The manufacturer claims a tighter connection of the boards, which significantly increases protection from moisture. 
The tensile test showed a result eight times higher than the specified parameters, according to the EN13329 standard, which can significantly reduce the number of chips and divergence of boards. Boxes with a new lock are marked accordingly. From personal experience, laminate with such locks assembles perfectly. Fixation - without any effort, the installation speed significantly increases. Assembly can be done by one person.
Lock -
From the manufacturer Classen. A plastic insert is installed at the end of the board, which allows you to snap the board into place by simply pressing on the board from above. Provides a very strong mechanical connection. Work with a vacuum cleaner! The main advantage is the speed of installation, unlike standard methods, there is no need to assemble one long strip, which allows one person to work comfortably, without outside help. Very high quality factory moisture protection.
Pergo PerfectFold 3.0 locking system
A type of lock with a plastic insert. Very easy assembly process. Assembly can be done without a partner. No additional tool required. Convenience and speed of installation, has reverse side— repeated disassembly leads to breakage of the lock ridges. It must be collected immediately, without errors. One should be wary of “confident masters.” The lock is similar in appearance to the Uniclik system, which entails the temptation to knock something down, knock on it, and so on. The result is inevitably damaged locks.
A characteristic, soft click will notify you of correct installation. Assembly can be done with different sides boards from both tongue and groove. Relevant when assembling floors without thresholds.
No complaints were identified during operation.
Lock -Proclick andJustclic
From the manufacturer Egger, good locks, Pro does not require assembling the entire row, the board is pushed down from above with a fist blow. High speed assemblies.
Just-clic replaced it. Unlike the old one, it requires complete assembly of the row during installation. The profile of the lock is in the form of an oval, with minimal gaps following the contours of the tenon and groove. Very precise fitting of the lock elements, requires perfect cleanliness inside.
Purely subjectively, I liked the first option more, the fixation, without a pronounced click, although in both cases there are no complaints. The surface is perfectly flat.
Lock -Twinclick
Russian manufacturer Kronospan. Almost indistinguishable from Tarkett T-lock. Allows you to assemble laminate flooring only in a standard way, in whole rows, it’s better to work together. Average quality price category, without differences in height and gaps. When assembling, there is no feeling of a clear fixation of the lamella. Enough hard work in doorways, a method for adjusting to door frame, by cutting off the lock ridge, is relevant in inconspicuous places. This type of lock is difficult to achieve high-quality styling The now widespread method is “the whole apartment without thresholds.” On well-lit surfaces, all the tricks, in the form of a cut lock, will be noticeable, which can lead to rapid wear of the protruding part.
Locks in inexpensive collections do not hold moisture at all; they must be treated with Click Guard sealant. Today, this is already nonsense, given the cost of the sealant and the labor intensity - it is better to choose an option with a waterproof lock.
Lock -Alloc
From a Norwegian manufacturer, very high quality, lock with aluminum insert, for ordinary apartments does not have any advantages, its main advantage is a strong mechanical connection that can manifest itself on large areas, where for a conventional laminate, the installation of dividing thresholds is required. Ease of installation and clear fixation are a plus. The price is a minus. Compared to the same Classen, given the huge selection of colors, for small apartment, the purchase can hardly be called advisable.
Conclusions:
This article describes only those locks with which our masters work constantly, there are great amount different trade names, but the essence remains the same. Padded adhesive locks are a thing of the past. Modern castles, allow you to work without glue and sealants, are quite well designed and reliable, provide high quality and strength. The only difference is the ease of installation.
Contrary to manufacturers' statements about the possibility of laying coatings without using additional tools, settling the boards using a block or a piece of lock from another lamella is always required! Easy sampling of gaps must be carried out. .
Taking into account the permissible micron gaps, installation work, for any type of lock, should be carried out only with the use of a vacuum cleaner. Dust removal of the groove under the next row is also mandatory!
Laminate flooring that requires laying in a row, it is advisable to lay it with a partner, alone, it is easy to break the lock, this manifests itself in the form of a gap and a characteristic rise in the transverse joint.
All famous manufacturers in Russia, they produce laminate in accordance with GOST or TU, often similar to European standards. As a rule, a difference of up to 100 microns is allowed - this is the thickness of a sheet of “Snow Maiden” paper. Tactilely, such a difference will be felt when held with a fingernail, and will be visually visible, although it is considered the norm.
You should not purchase laminate without moisture protection locks, this is no longer relevant, the difference in price is negligible, and the service life differs significantly.
The craftsmen working for us note successful design Uniclik locks from Quick-Step, which allow laying laminate flooring in “difficult places” with minimal damage to the lock, and experience in using coatings from the manufacturer of the same name allows us to give it an “excellent” rating. The preference is for Belgian-made laminate, compared to the Russian Quick-Step, with quality, however, not everything is so smooth yet. There is no such ease and clarity of assembly. The Uniclic lock is used by the Kastomonu concern, which produces laminate flooring in Elabuga. The new TC-Lock from TARKETT honestly deserves a “good” rating.
Among flooring materials solid board has rightfully gained a reputation as a standard of solidity and respectability. She owes this unique combination high wear resistance and durability with absolute environmental friendliness and mesmerizing beauty. Increasingly in Lately Manufacturers began to offer products equipped with a special docking system.
The massive interlocking board is extremely easy to install, and almost anyone can handle its installation. No strength, no special skills or tools are needed here. The first experience of replacing a floor covering joint based on the tongue-and-groove principle with a click type lock dates back to 2002. The innovation of the engineers of the German company Parador did not receive the proper response at that time. This is understandable, because at the first stages the product turned out to be quite expensive. However, along with the improvement of technology, solid boards with a lock entered the series, and now it is one of the most popular materials on the flooring market.
Material intended for adhesive installation is much more affordable than interlocking ones, however reuse cannot be removed after dismantling. They are also less repairable - one damaged lamella is quite difficult, and in many cases almost impossible, to replace. Most often, this damages adjacent coating elements. In addition, laying solid boards using this method with your own hands is quite difficult, and involving specialists in the installation naturally increases the cost of the future floor.
Advantages of a locking connection
- The array is easier to install. In this case, no time is required for the glue to dry.
- The locking connection provides a less noticeable but more reliable connection panels between each other.
- The speed of laying the material increases several times.
- This floor can be used directly after installation.
- After joining, the boards form a solid spring plane. It is quite stable and does not creak when walking.
- If necessary, the finished solid floor can be easily disassembled and re-laid in another room. When dismantling, you just need to lift the board from the side opposite the lock.
The massive locking board is equipped at the ends with special connecting grooves and ridges. The connection mechanisms are quite diverse, however, according to the type of fixation, they are all divided into locks of the “Lock” type and collapsible locks of the “Click” type.
Lock type locking system
Boards equipped with “Lock” latches are considered more economical option. This connection is usually considered more economical. The simplicity of the design and the reliability of the connection have ensured this coating option is quite popular among consumers. This connection option is also called driven-in, based on the characteristics of the floor assembly.
The essence of the latch lock is as follows: there is a groove on one covering board, and a tenon on the other. The last element of such a lock is equipped with a special ridge, which ensures its strong fixation inside the groove. The connection in this way, even without the use of glue, is inseparable. It is performed in a horizontal plane - simply hammer the tenons into the grooves with a wooden or rubber mallet.
In addition to the option of hammering the board into the previous one, you can simply lower the first one onto the second one when snapping the long side into place.
The cost of models with Lock latches is relatively small, but their installation requires a completely flat base. Among the shortcomings it should be noted Negative influence on the strength of the connection under constant loads. In this case, the elements of the lock constantly perceive a certain friction, which leads over time to the appearance of cracks in the locks.
It is not possible to repair a lock with a worn tenon and groove. Of course, manufacturers take this point into account and try different ways fight this deficiency.
Click type system
Such a connection is considered more durable, less exposed to education gaps and very easy to install. These locks work as follows: the tongue of the bar is inserted at an angle of 45⁰ into the groove of the previous one and, pushing down and forward, press lightly. The lock latching is accompanied by a characteristic sound. There is no need for great physical effort or use of special tools, which is undoubtedly a big plus.
When loaded, the locking system does not experience friction, but is subject to compression force, which, on the contrary, further increases the strength of the connection.
Click system locks are a step forward compared to Lock locks. Almost anyone without any professional skills can lay and disassemble such a floor, and this is done extremely easily and quickly.
It only takes a few hours to disassemble and reassemble the floor in another room.
By the way, disassembly/assembly of such floors can be performed several times during the service life of the board. The elements of these locks, unlike Lock systems, do not break during dismantling. The permissible height difference when laying with a Click-lock is up to 3mm/linear. m
A solid board with high-quality Click-type locks has the effect of a monolithic floor - of course, if it is laid correctly, taking into account the optimal direction of the panels.
The disadvantage of this array is considered high price. However, you should not rush to give such an assessment of the material. First, you need to calculate how much it will cost to lay floors with a different joining system, because in addition to the board itself, you will also have to pay for glue, for the work of craftsmen, and more. No matter how, in the end, the prefabricated system turned out to be more profitable.
Many large manufacturers offer their own patented modifications of locking systems, thereby guaranteeing high quality products.
The recently introduced universal lock of the “UniClick” type can be locked as a “Click” by turning, or as a “Lock” by hammering. It is performed on all four edges of the planks, both end and long.
When choosing a laminate, you need to pay attention not only to color scheme and the quality of the boards themselves. An important selection criterion is the type of connection of the boards. Let's look at the types of laminate locks most used in modern models this floor covering.
All types of laminate are installed using the glueless method; the slats are held in place only with latches. This method is faster and more convenient to install, and if necessary, it is easy to replace the damaged part of the floor covering.
It should be noted right away that many laminate manufacturers develop their own unique and patented types of connections. We will look at what kind of locks there are on laminate flooring and general principle such connections.
Lock Lock
This connection is considered more economical, although somewhat outdated. The principle of such a lock is a tongue-and-groove type, also called a driven connection, according to the installation principle:
- During installation, the end parts of the lamellas are brought together.
- Then, using a mallet, they are knocked together through a wooden lining.
The disadvantage of such a fastening system:
- Over time, friction causes the grooves to wear out and become loose, forming cracks that can no longer be sealed.
- It is better to entrust the installation of lamellas with such grooves to a person with experience, since the locks of such a laminate are quite easily damaged during installation.
Lock with plastic plate
This type of fastener was developed specifically to combat these shortcomings. These plastic-coated laminate locks make installation somewhat easier and make the connection more secure.
Click-locks
Click locks - were developed relatively recently, but have already been found wide application. Most modern lamellas are produced with this type of connection, with various combinations. New technologies have made it possible to get rid of the disadvantages inherent in the previous type of connection.
All flooring elements with click locks are connected to each other at an angle of 45°. No additional actions or tools are required. Even a beginner can handle this simple installation of laminate flooring.
Advice! The higher the quality of the lamellas with click locks, the less noticeable the joint between the boards. From reputable manufacturers, the butt seam is completely invisible. This is what explains the popularity of this connection.
Advantages of a click lock
- Double fastenings located at an angle of 45°.
- Durable connecting fabric.
- High safety of fasteners click systems during installation: the percentage of damage is incredibly small.
- A small (up to 3 mm) deviation in the level of the subfloor is allowed.
- These types of laminate locks last a very long time without creaking or loosening.
- The ability to easily disassemble and reassemble the cover with click fasteners up to six times without damaging the fastening system.
5g system
For even easier and quick installation laminate, a 5g fastening system was developed. This type of lock allows you to connect boards with just one click. The 5g system has a movable tongue that allows you to connect simultaneously along the long and short sides of the board.
Thanks to the 5g system, the panels snap together simply and securely. Many manufacturers have improved the 5g fastening and patented it under their own name, but the principle of operation of laminate locks remains the same.
Impregnation of laminate locks
Laminate boards are quite durable and strong, but have a weak point - the locking joint. This is why all types of laminate locks need additional protection. To protect against moisture, the fastening system is treated with a special wax impregnation.
This treatment prevents damage to the fastenings from dampness and moisture. In addition, wax impregnation treatment allows you to:
- Eliminate squeaking of the floor covering over time.
- Significantly simplify DIY installation.
- Increase the strength and resistance to mechanical deformation of fasteners under the influence of gravity.
The method of treating locks with wax impregnation depends on the form of its release:
- Liquid compounds are applied with a brush before laying the laminate. After laying the lamellas, the seams are wiped with a dry cloth.
- Paste wax sealants are applied in a continuous layer to one of the panels before joining them. Any excess that appears is removed after it dries.
Advice! It is not necessary to cover the entire surface of the board with wax impregnation. In addition, this is impractical; wax can damage the water-repellent layer, which will lead to further complete unsuitability of the laminate.
So, we can say with confidence which locks are best for your home and office. All experts recommend laminate flooring with click fasteners as the most reliable and modern. And the possibility of easily laying the flooring with your own hands only confirms the correctness of the choice.