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 manufacturers in the struggle for the buyer - these are the components of laminate success.

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 glue 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 glue odors in the room. The main advantage is that the locking 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 laminate lock 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. That’s 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. The reliable connection of adjacent panels and the resulting constant tension 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. The fundamental difference is the presence of a lock on the long and end sides. Laying repeats the steps for connecting the panels with a Click-lock - 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- a modern floor covering that has recently become 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.

In many respects, laminate flooring is superior to natural floors.

The basis of the laminate design is a high-density HDF board, in the thickness of which a lock is cut, thanks to which installation of the floor is simple and can be done by a person who does not have the skills of a builder-finisher. Exists a large number of castle structures, differing both in design and assembly technique. Many manufacturers are developing own systems locks, 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. Provides easy installation with an excellent final result.

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. It features an original design of 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 is a development of the German manufacturer Classen. This is an innovative invention that allows you to speed up the laminate assembly process by 3 times. There is an additional movable plastic lock on the end side of the panel. 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. Possesses high strength indicators. 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 is widely used in the flooring market. Many manufacturers have adopted this lock. The system very reliably fixes the panels in tight contact. The assembly 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 a 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 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 laminate lock Lock, connected when “driving” one board into another.

The short lock of the Click laminate is connected at an angle, without tamping. With this type of locking, the laminate is first assembled whole line(Figure 1), and then the entire row is connected at an angle to the adjacent row (Figure 2).

PICTURE 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 uniqueness of this lock is that large areas of laminate can be assembled 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. The rubber hammer must be held 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. Can be damaged internal structure castle
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!

Laminate locks, varieties and their types and installation (disassembly) features. Click, Lock, 5G systems. Uniclic, T-Lock, LocTec locks

2014-01-23

The first laminate was installed using only glue and screws. But as they say, the world is full of ideas. And at the end of the XX century. appeared to the world the new kind laying the laminate - in a floating way, all thanks to the locking connection. The use of HDF board instead of conventional MDF led to the fact that milling machines produced a lock of the most complex shape and incredible precision. All laminate locks divided into 3 groups: Click, Lock and 5G. Of course, there are many more patented names. Each manufacturer has developed its own unique lock for laminate. Let's consider each of them separately.

Laminate with lockLock, or as it is also called a hammer lock, which works on the tongue-and-groove principle. The groove is a kind of comb that can hold the tenon after it is driven in. The laminate is connected by hammering the boards at right angles (90 0 C) using a rubberized hammer or wooden mallet. Disadvantages: after laying laminate with lockLock it cannot be disassembled and, at the same time, not be damaged; moreover, it has been noticed that with such a connection of the laminate, cracks always form over time. Today this locking system is almost never used.

For the convenience and speed of laying laminate flooring with a lock, Lock was developed laminate with plastic lock. Plastic can be springy or hard. Laminate with a rigid plastic lock is difficult to install, but a springy plastic plate on the laminate lock can make the job much easier. But the geometry of the plate is not so ideal; for a good connection, it may be necessary to additionally tamp the laminate. Sawing the laminate in the area of the plastic lock can lead to its breakage.

SystemClick- This is a method of connecting laminate lamellas at an angle of 45 degrees. This is the most common. Laying laminate flooring using system locksClick occurs in rows, very quickly and without much difficulty. The main advantage of the Click lock is the ability to disassemble and reassemble the floor covering. At the same time, this does not affect the quality of the connection in any way; the boards do not separate even under the heaviest loads. This system recites dozens of separate types of laminate locks.

In addition, there are Click systems with aluminum plates that ensure reliable fixation of the boards from below. Inconveniences laminate with metal lock begin during installation. The fact is that the plate must be placed under the board, while trying not to touch the substrate. The plate itself can cut you, so you need to work extremely carefully.

In order to simplify the assembly of the laminate, without compromising the quality and strength of the connection, the average person was offered system 5 laminate lockG. Its distinctive feature is laying laminate with 1 click. Namely: the short side of the lamella is latched simultaneously with the lock connection on the long side automatically. This became possible thanks to the presence of a “moving tongue” at the end of the laminate board lock. The slats seem to be fastened to each other with simple hand pressure. There are many options 5 laminate locksG. Each manufacturer has improved and patented its type of laminate lock. Below you can familiarize yourself with them in more detail.

Types of laminate locks from different manufacturers

There are various types of laminate locks, which differ from each other in the design of the connecting elements. Leading laminate manufacturers not only independently developed laminate locks, but also patented them. Let's consider laminate locks leading world leaders.

1. Quick-Step Company, laminate with lockUniclic: original design of a snap-on tongue-and-groove system without the use of any tools. Quick-Step offers a lifetime warranty on its interlocking system: no gaps and no panel separation. Laminate Quick Step with lock Uniclic ensures a seamless floor, since the gap is practically invisible. Laying laminate with a lock Uniclic can be done in any direction, in two ways, since the lock is located on all four sides of the lamella. The first involves connecting boards at an angle of only 30 0 C. The second is a horizontal connection of lamellas. It is used when laying coverings in doorway. For this case, a special pad is used. It should be noted that connecting the laminate with one blow is prohibited. Make small blows along the entire length of the edge in stages until you hear a characteristic click. Dismantling and re-installation can be carried out up to 4 times.

2. Pergo laminate uses the following laminate locks: ProLoc and SmartLock. ProLoc system used for laying laminate in large rooms and in places with intense loads. Its distinctive feature is a triple fastening system. Installation is quite quick and simple. This type of interlocking laminate is particularly moisture resistant, since all joints are additionally impregnated. For rooms with high humidity Pergo recommends the use of SafeSeal, an advanced sealant. When dismantling laminate lock It is almost impossible to damage, which is why the floor can be disassembled and reassembled several times.

SmartLock System- this is more simple laminate lock, the joints of which are also impregnated with moisture-resistant impregnation. The coating can withstand heavy loads, the installation itself is very quick and easy at any angle. The insert ridge itself is fixed in the groove by simply pressing the end of the laminate board. The floor does not deform because the laminate boards are firmly fixed to each other.

3. Next on our list is laminate lockEgger - Pro Click system. Thanks to the special geometry of the lamella, laying the laminate occurs on one side (see photo below), very easily, quickly and very reliably. In this case, it is possible to use STRIP EX and CLIC SEALER sealants. Laminate lock Pro Click provides a high level of stability of the coating, its strength at any surface tension. Egger laminate can be removed several times without losing the quality of the lock.

4. Balterio laminate floors offer the following revolutionary interlocking systems: Click Xpress, DropXpress and PressXpress. By the way, Balterio laminate can be disassembled as many times as you like. Virtually no loss of quality of the locking connection.

- Click Xpress System- installation of the floor without gaps, creating a seamless coating. At the same time, the laminate can be easily disassembled and re-installed if necessary.

- DropXpress laminate lock- this is a castle U-shaped 5G systems. Laminate flooring is laid by connecting boards along the short side from top to bottom, and along the long side they fit together independently.

- Lock PressXpress from the 5G system. The laminate is connected by simply pressing. At the same time, the groove, which is located inside the panel, ensures reliable fixation and assembly without visible seams.

5. Megaloc Castle from the German brand Classen. Perhaps one of the strongest laminate locks on the end part of the lamella. An interesting technological solution made it possible to create a lock that is easy to install and extremely reliable. The connection takes place using a special tongue and groove (see the figure below).

Installation begins by connecting the boards along the length. But there is one difference. The installation of the next row is a little different: along the first row, the tenon of the board of the new row is applied at an angle, with its long side. To completely connect the ends, the board is lowered and pressed lightly until a characteristic click occurs, since Megalock laminate lock located on the end of the panel. Additional recommended processing of laminate locks ISOWAXX impregnation, which penetrates into the locking joint, fills it and reliably protects it from moisture. If necessary, the laminate can be easily dismantled and reassembled.

6. LocTec lock from the manufacturer Witex: connection strength, tensile strength up to 1100 Nm/lm, reliability and durability - these are the main advantages of the LocTec lock. Highlight from Witex - laminate impregnated with locks paraffin for better protection from moisture. The laminate boards are simply inserted into each other at an angle and click into place with a simple downward push. The floor can be used immediately after installation. If necessary, the floor can be disassembled and reassembled several times.

7. LockT-Lock- an exclusive development of the Tarkett company, is one of the best, adopted by many laminate manufacturers. Laminate with lock T-Lock Installed by simply clicking the laminate boards along the long side using a small angle. The floor is obtained without cracks or distortions. If necessary, Tarkett laminate can be dismantled and re-installed ( Tarkett laminate lock works 3-4 times).

Laminate with lock- this is real grace. Judge for yourself - no dirt, no dust, no need to wait for the glue to dry. Lay the laminate and enjoy the floor to your health. Another question, which laminate lock is better. Each manufacturer did their best, offering us not just quick and convenient assembly, but a reliable, durable and very beautiful floor. Choose a laminate depending on your requirements for it. If you have questions regarding the choice of laminate, please contact

Laminate Kronospan- this is excellent European quality, elegant style and ease of installation. In 1897, laminated floors began to be produced in Austria for the first time, but for almost 8 years there have been factories producing laminateKronospan in Ukraine in Novolynsk, although production workshops are located in 14 countries, incl. and on the territory of Russia.

When choosing a laminate flooring, rarely does anyone understand that the types of laminate locks determine its quality. They are responsible for the gap between the panels, the absence or presence of squeaks, the divergence of 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 and the type of adhesion. We will consider the features of installation and fastening systems in more detail.

Almost all panel interlocking options are based on the tongue-and-groove system. The difference is the profiling of the lock system.

There are several main types:

Lock Lock. The simplest option. The cross-section of the spike does not have a simple straight profile, but a complex figure. The groove under it has a complex shape. The panels are laid by horizontally pressing one into the other. The moment of fixation is a click. For quality installation The outer web needs to be tapped. A wooden hammer is used. You can use a regular one, but you will need a wooden block or special finishing. Laminate flooring with this type of lock is difficult to dismantle without destruction. Over time, under mechanical load, the connection wears out and the panels separate. Therefore, in addition, the locks are treated with sealant or glue. The surface under the laminate requires high quality. Otherwise, during operation, a situation may arise where the blades diverge.
Click lock. Modernized previous look. The tenon has a hook-shaped bend at the upper end, and a protrusion at the bottom, closer to the panel. The groove follows the shape of the protrusions. Fixation occurs when one panel is inserted into another at an angle. A rocking motion is used to lower it to a horizontal position. At this moment, a characteristic click is heard. The lock worked. The connection is strong due to additional fixing protrusions. Coverings can be dismantled and assembled up to 4 times.
T-LOCK locks. The option was developed by Tarkett. It combines two types of locking connections, which allows you to achieve maximum adhesion strength of the panels. When laying, technology typical of Click systems is used. Simplicity and reliability have made this type very popular among professionals. The floor covering can be removed up to several times without damaging the locks.
5G. These types of locking 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 complicated. The panel is inserted into the previous one in a horizontal position. When pressed, the insert is removed, when installed in the desired position, a click is heard indicating that the “tongue” is in place and the position is fixed. Installation and dismantling will not be difficult even for a beginner.
Megalock lock. Advanced fixation system based on 5G. The locks on the laminate begin to be connected at the end side. Reliability of adhesion is ensured by the end insert. And already to the assembled length of the first strip, the second row is added in width with an offset. Assembly time is minimal compared to other types. Maximum strength and reliability. Installation and dismantling up to 4 times is allowed. Another advantage - increased protection from moisture.
ClickXpress lock. It is distinguished by the rounded lower part of the tenon and, accordingly, the groove. Does not have plastic inserts. The work is carried out according to the Click system principle, at an angle. Can be dismantled and installed up to four times.
Uniclick lock. The tenon and groove have a special profile that ensures strong adhesion of the planks. Installation can be done at an angle or by tapping. Dismantling is carried out up to 4 times.
Aluminum locks. The most reliable connections. Withstands separation resistance up to 1200 kg/sq.m. m. Laying without a threshold is possible. This laminate has two types of lock - tongue and groove, aluminum at the bottom. Distinctive feature– the joints between the canvases are practically invisible. Installation and dismantling is allowed up to 5 times.

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

Useful video: Review of laminate locks

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

If we compare which is better, Lock or Click, from the point of view of dismantling and installation, then the first system is more susceptible to destruction of fastening profiles.

Preparation for installation

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

Cork . The most expensive option, but environmentally friendly, hides minor unevenness of the rough foundation, and does not compress much under load. Disadvantages include high cost; destruction in a humid environment, with a “warm floor” system.
Polyethylene foam. Cheap option, has reduced thermal conductivity, is resistant to moisture and the appearance of bacteria. Short-lived, pressed.
Expanded polystyrene. A relatively inexpensive option, it is used when installing a “warm floor” system and provides additional sound insulation. Over time it gets pressed.

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

Important points before installation

Correct installation will be ensured if several nuances are taken into account:

When purchasing, check with the seller whether additional protective impregnation of the laminate locks is required or not. In the second case, you should first purchase wax. Processing is carried out before installation begins.
The laminate must lie for at least 2 days in the room in which it is planned to be installed. 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 original packaging from the material.
Installation is carried out from window to door. The end sides are directed towards the openings, and the long side towards the blank walls. This will reduce the visibility of seams between the canvases.
For Lock systems, consider purchasing a special metal pad. It will allow you to easily install floor coverings even against walls.
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.
Technical gaps near the walls should be from 5 to 10 mm. There are special clamps. At the time of installation, mechanical action is applied to the floor covering. As a result, it may move close to the wall if they are not secured.
Before work, you need to prepare a cutting tool - a wood saw or jigsaw. For proper cutting quality, the tool must have minimal teeth.

Having considered all the points, you can safely begin installing the panels.

Before work, read the installation instructions. Unpack the material and start laying it yourself.

Lock systems are laid with tamping along both the end and longitudinal parts. The uniformity of the seams between the canvases should be observed. Another feature is working with the last row. Often you have to trim the width of the panels. Measurements are taken taking into account the technical gap between the wall and the floor finishing, marked, and cut off. The canvas is carefully inserted at a slight angle. Using a metal filler, the seam is compacted to the required 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°, and with a slight oscillatory movement they are moved to a horizontal position. A click should sound.

Useful video: Laying laminate flooring with Click locks

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

Laminate manufacturers offer a wide range of locking systems, which best determine the budget possibilities and reliability of the resulting floor covering. If the locks come apart after a short period of use, this indicates several reasons: poor-quality installation or laminate lock (do not chase a low price), poorly prepared base for the finishing coating.