How to lay laminate flooring with different types of locks. Which laminate is better, choice of locks Laminate click or lock, which is better

Doors

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 which locking system is best 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.
  • with prolonged 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.
  • high price.

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 of 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:

  1. A board placed on the floor is attached with a board attached at an angle of 0°.
  2. A tamping block is placed on the opposite side of the lamella.
  3. By lightly hitting the block with a mallet, we achieve tight contact until the gap is eliminated.

Advice: Tamping should be done carefully, without unnecessary effort, since strong blows with a mallet are 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 point. 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, removing the smallest particles of construction debris and using a 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, provided correct 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

A relatively new technology in which the panels are fixed by snapping. Main distinctive features from 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:

  1. The mounted panel is brought to the board laid on the floor at an angle of 45°. The angle may vary among different manufacturers, so it is necessary to clarify this point.
  2. The hook is driven into the groove.
  3. The panel lowers to the horizontal.
  4. A characteristic click is heard and the connection is complete.

It is because of this click that the system got its name.

There is no need for additional tools during installation. 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 of 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. A flat base for the laminate is a prerequisite for installation.

Let's look at several subspecies Click systems which are the 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.

Most modern Pergo laminate flooring models 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 assistance. If necessary, disassembling the connection is not difficult.

T-lock, 2-lock, TC-lock

Presented by Tarkett brand

T-lock- happy old technology, is quite common at the moment, 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;
  • When used repeatedly, the lock along the long part of the lamella may become deformed.

2-Lock- newer model. Has a plastic tab to secure the connection. Allows quick and easy installation even by one person - assembly is carried out not over a whole row, but one panel at a time.

TC-lock is a T-lock receiver. It is becoming more widespread. 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. At its core, 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.

Laminate models in the low price category have very poor protection against moisture.

LocTec

Patented Witex laminate locking system. 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.

The strength advantage becomes especially noticeable 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 have protection 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 make a high-quality joint. In addition, most of them have water-repellent properties and do not require additional processing.

Experienced professionals 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.

In principle, there is nothing innovative in the new locking connection TC-Lock No. We can say that this is an improved lock T-Lock . First of all, the milling of the lock has been changed - it has become larger. But let's go through it in order. First, let's look at the old castle T-Lock:

The first thing that catches your eye is the more concave part of the lower TC-Lock.

And this is a significant plus, since T-Lock the bottom part was flat. This made it difficult not only to install the laminate Tarkett . Also, thanks to this improvement, the lock tongue will be increased, and accordingly its strength.

The second change is the cutting of the corners of the upper part of the lock joint. They have become more rounded.

In the old T-Lock , even minimal debris could “lift” and make a bump on the front side, with TC-Lock this problem is minimized

The third change is an increase in the thickness of the “shelf” of the upper part of the lock.

And this will reduce the likelihood of swelling in the area of ​​the lock joint. The laminate will lie in one layer, without flaws on the front side, which appeared on uneven bases under artificial lighting.Thanks to all these changes, we get a strong, reliable lock. With the advent TC-Lock The known problems of the old castle will be removed, and this is actually good news. Let's look at the tensile test - one of the important parameters of locks in laminated coatings


As tests have shown, according to the standard EN 13329 (standard for the strength of locking joints) on the long side of the board there is a lock TC-Lock showed results eight times higher than normal, on the short side of the board, four times higher than normal. What do these numbers say? Everything is simple here compared to the standard, thanks to the lock TC-Lock The divergence of the laminate boards, the appearance of cracks, as well as damage (swelling) of the front surface will be minimized. We get durable reliable connection, which of course pleases, but many people have a reasonable question - how is the new lock doing with its protection from moisture? A test was carried out. Laminate Tarkett with new TC - Lock collected, and using silicone a so-called pool was created. After which water was poured there, and special devices were installed that record changes in the size of the board. The test results are impressive - after an hour of exposure to water on the laminate, there are no changes. After a day of testing, changes in the joint of the boards were no more than 3%. This clearly shows that the castle TC-Lock protects the laminate thanks to a tight connection.



The last test was carried out by our specialist installers, and they assembled several boards to check the ease of installation. In principle, we did not expect anything else - the lock behaves excellently, the floor is easy to assemble. One of the disadvantages that we found is the old castle T-Lock will not fit with the new one TC-Lock , therefore, hurry up with the installation so as not to have to look for several boards later, as often happens when changing the lock from the manufacturer.
As mentioned at the beginning of the article, laminate is already appearing Tarkett with a new lock. The price of laminate flooring will not change; the name(s) of decors will also remain unchanged. Parties with a new lock will be marked with a special sign:

Which you can find at the end of the pack. If you have any additional questions or need advice, be sure to call, we will be happy to help you.

I’m rarely asked “which type of laminate lock is better, more convenient or stronger” and it’s clear why such a question is not relevant. The buyer considers the product as a whole, focusing on the end result - appearance, comfort, and service life of the coating. And how the process of performing the work of a hired worker will take place is not important to many. However, in lately, people have become more discerning, which is right. Therefore, this article will be of interest to many readers who are planning to lay laminate flooring themselves. Or those who have read a lot of information, but still haven’t figured out which laminate to buy, with Lock or Click 3G, 5G locks and what is the difference between them?

Dear readers! Below in the text will be published links to the largest stores where you can view products with specific locking connections.

The type of locking connection does not seem to directly affect the operation process. This is partly true, but much depends on the conditions in which the installation is carried out.

The evenness of the floor and walls, the presence of door blocks, the method of flooring, the experience of the craftsman - all this contributes or hinders the assembly of the laminate with various types castle And difficulty in execution can lead to damage to the coating and disappointment from the results of the apartment renovation.

List of articles you must read before purchasing laminate flooring.

The brief background written below is important for understanding the entire process of creating and improving lock joints. You can read the conclusions below or draw them yourself.

Connecting Valinge and Unilin laminate locks - from Lock to Click, a little history

In 1977-1979, the Swedish company Perstorp AB (later Pergo) introduced laminated parquet with an adhesive locking system - an adhesive lock. The development of the laminate was done with the participation of Darko Pervan, who later founded the Valinge company in 1993. In 1994-1996, Bureau Valinge designs and licenses the world's first 2G lock for the mechanical connection of laminate locks. Offering to use the invention on Pergo laminate, but the company refuses the former employee's generous offer.

The lock connection with the name Lock is a prototype of the further development of the lock with the name Click - which can be attributed to the name of the joint of a laminate or 3G parquet board.

Many Chinese laminate manufacturers present on the Russian market use a light modificationLock-lock without brand name fromValinge. Which no longer needs to pay bonuses due to the expiration of the invention.

Lock – the lock is lockable. It is assembled one board at a time using a hammer and finishing block with significant effort. At the moment, the Lock locking system is outdated morally and physically, but most importantly, it is really inconvenient to assemble. NOW PRACTICALLY NOT USED.

Laminate lock 3G-Click

In 1994, the company entered into a licensing agreement for the use of its lock with the parquet board manufacturer Kahrs (Chers) - 2G locking system and the Norwegian licensee Alloc AS - 1G locking connection. But the product launch will take place in 1996. From 1996 to 2001, under the leadership of Darko Pervan, a number of further modifications of the locking connection were made to 3G Click and commissioning.

In narrow circles there is debate about who is the founder of laminate:Pergo orAlloc.

In 1990, Unilin and Quick-Step joined forces and launched laminate flooring under their own brand for the first time in Belgium.

In 1997, the concern introduced a new development - the Uniclic lock, which subsequently received many awards. The locking connection is class 3G. Unilin believes that they were the first to introduce the 3G floor locking system into operation. Looking ahead, I will say - in my opinion and others, the Uniclic locking connection is the best, at least of those known to me.

From then until 2007, there were disputes between Valinge and Unilin about the legality of activities relating to the issuance of a patent to licensees. For example, Apple and Samsung had a similar dispute over the invention of the idea and its implementation for controlling the smartphone screen by touching the fingers.

In 2007, Unilin (patent BE 9600527, BE 9700344) and Valinge (patent WO 94/26999) reached a preliminary agreement on a legal framework in which a third party undertakes to obtain a license from one of the rights holders to use adhesive-free floor panel assembly systems.

Simply put, they divided the market. In the context of the above, we take into account that the inventions of various locking systems are used not only for the convenience of consumers, but to combat competitors and obtain financial benefits. Then marketing work is carried out, as a result of which the buyer, with the help of advertising, conveys the idea that the new locking connection is more effective than the previous one. Although this may not be the case.

Laminate locks 5G Click

All over the world in various fields From international politics to the provision of small household services, competition is fierce. They are trying to leave opponents in the convoy in various ways, using for these purposes various methods. Of course, the most the right way– is to improve your products and quality of service.

For example, at one time I also thought about modifications to equipment that could be introduced to stay ahead of competitors in my field. With difficulty, despite the protests of my wife, I purchased a large industrial vacuum cleaner. Even earlier, the idea of ​​​​using an MFP for trimming door frames was spotted. These are useful devices that make the work process easier and make the result neater.

In 2003-2004, the guys from the marketing company Valinge, led by Darko Pervan, sat down and thought about what they could do to bypass their European neighbors and capture the flooring market. Having decided that it was necessary to work in the area of ​​​​improving the convenience of locking locks, they implemented the idea of ​​​​introducing a plastic tongue as a latch. It became possible to assemble laminated panels not in rows, but individually, focusing attention on one board rather than the entire row.

Thus, the 5G Click laminate lock was released. A powerful advertising campaign, explanatory work. The financial aspects were agreed upon with the licensees, an appropriate increase was made to the final cost of the product, and everyone was satisfied.

What is this preface for? It shows the commercial component of projects. First and foremost, everyone wants to benefit financially while showing they care about their customers. Even if the actual result of an innovative idea turned out to be not as successful in practice as advertised. But it was launched into a large project and serious money was spent, this is not an indicator of its quality. Surely one can remain silent about the negative aspects of a product?

My personal opinion... When technically simple products are complicated to more complex ones, the latter have a higher chance of failure. What happens periodically under certain flooring installation conditions. Examples will be given below.

RESULT:

It can definitely be argued that a more modern castleClick, aka 3G and 5G, more durable in locking, more convenient to install a completely outdated lock connectionLock.

Types of laminate locks – 3G and 5G pros and cons

Modern types of laminate brands can be divided, by and large, into two types of locking designs, which have their own pros and cons. Let me remind you that both are Click connections and the installation method is different between them.

  1. Classic lock – 3G. Floor coverings with this type of joint are assembled in rows.
  2. New lock - 5G. This type of laminate is assembled one plank at a time. Now I will explain in more detail.

3G Click lock – description and features with examples

The 3G Click lock has a spike on one long and one short side in its design. During assembly, the ridge is inserted into the groove of the previous board. The last die is cut to size, completing the assembly of the first row of laminate.

Next, spacer wedges are installed between the wall and the slats and the second row along the short part is assembled in the same way as the first. And then the connected row is evenly inserted into the first row with a tenon into the groove, tapping with a special tool along the entire length.

Different manufacturers have their own characteristics in the design of locks. They differ from each other in the angle at which the bar enters, in the length of the ridge, and in the thickness of the base of the locking joint. These features complicate or simplify the installation process.

Below are several examples of a lock of this type, used by leading manufacturers of laminated coverings

Laminate lock T-Lock (Tarkett)

An average lock in terms of installation complexity from a well-known manufacturer. The connection is generously lubricated with wax to protect it from moisture, but due to the excess, the paraffin composition periodically rolls off and the planks fit tightly into the grooves.

The comb is short; if the room is long and there are differences in the floor, it can be difficult to evenly insert into the groove of the previous row. The design feature of the locking connection is the presence of a micro-step. Most often, due to its presence, you have to tap the row in two stages for a complete fit.

Tarkett is very difficult to assemble without thresholds between rooms, if you need to assemble rows in reverse side. The angle of insertion of the planks is average (about 30 degrees) - because of which it is not possible, without cutting the lock, to insert the laminate under door frame. Despite this, I like Tarkett itself, but more on that in another article. I recommend it for self-installation in a simple-shaped room.

Twin Clic laminate lock (Kronospan)

Quite a successful locking connection. For the first self-installation I would recommend the Twin Clic lock out of all the options. Laminated boards can be inserted very easily and effortlessly. The angle at which they start is low, about 15 degrees, which is convenient when you have low-cost heating radiators. A relatively thick edge at the base of the lock implies greater tensile strength.

Like all covers with a 3G lock, reassembling it in the opposite direction requires considerable effort. I like this locking type model. Although questions arise regarding the geometry of the slats.

Uniclic laminate lock (Quick Step)

Uniclic is the best lock joint in my opinion. I will try to express my conclusions in simple words.

The Uniclic lock looks like an arrowhead from the side - long, about 4 mm, and sharp. The recess into which the comb is inserted completely follows its contour. There is no backlash in this connection, like most other types of joints.

Due to the tight closure of the lockUniclic, large contact area and lack of play, the connection firmly holds the tensile load. For the same reason, sealing Uniclik is not recommended. The sealant simply has nowhere to go.

I should note that the Quick-Step 12mm has a more recessed groove profile. But the panels can also fit at a zero angle, although more tightly.

Due to the low partition in the mating part, the Quick-Step lock can be connected to each other at a zero angle, although its natural operating mode is about 10-15 degrees. This feature is necessary for threshold-free installation of laminate flooring with already installed door blocks, when it is necessary to place panels under the door frame to avoid gaps.

When installing the Quick Step laminate planks parallel to the floor, the lock does not break, including due to the lower part of the arrow-shaped ridge lubricated with wax. Roughly speaking, it’s like sticking your hand into a jar - it goes deep easily, but you can’t pull it out.

Another advantage of the Uniclic locking connection is the almost complete absence of the need to reinforce the laminate boards with finishing timber. The design of the arrow-shaped ridge has a unique relief. The recess completely repeats it, and until the contours match, the planks will not sit in place.

When connecting the dies evenly at the ends and evenly inserting a row of laminate into the previous one, it is enough to press on the edge of the boards and they will sit in place. However, we still use a finishing tool. This feature is described rather as an amazing mechanical development and serves as an example.

LockUniclic from the flooring manufacturerUnilin has the ability to tighten locks together. And even on an uneven surface it can be assembled with virtually no gaps.

In the opposite direction, the Uniclik lock connection is assembled worse than 5G type locks, but better than most 3G connections due to the long and sharp comb.

One of the disadvantages of the Uniclic key connection is the high difficulty of inserting the last row of laminate if it is narrow. This feature is especially evident in 12 mm thick planks.

I recommend the Uniclic locking connection when laying laminate flooring yourself. However, difficulties may arise when arranging the second row if the collection has a small board width.

Laminate lock Just Clic (Egger)

Egger is a leading manufacturer of laminated flooring. Previously and currently it is equipped with a Just Clic lock. But is there a transition period happening now? to the UniFit locking connection. Apparently UniClic integration is happening everywhere. I wonder if the weak are to blame economic indicators Egger companies, forcing the company to look for new impulses for drive? Or European calculation for the future?

Dear readers! At the moment, the Just Clic locking joint is not found regularly. In Egger there is a substitution for another compound. From time to time this lock is used in Artens laminate.

Just Clic – This type of 3G locking connection is similar to T-Lock Tarkett. The same short front tenon has one advantage over UniClic - it does not need to be cut down when laying. Whereas with Quick-Step it is advisable to cut it off, otherwise, in large rooms, it may rest against the wall. It happens that an extra 2.5 mm can play a role when setting the gap from the wall.

Just Click has a rounded shape at the bottom and fits into the recess at a high angle, about 40 degrees, which makes it not very convenient to install with low-standing heating radiators, especially with door frames installed. If you want to properly place a panel under the jamb, you need to cut off the lock with a knife and place the panel being installed and the adjacent panel together with glue.

Just Clic is a fairly strong lock. On the mating part of the lock, the base has a rounded shape with a thickening. It turns out that the move is “half-bearing”. Thanks to this design solution, the tensile connection is quite strong.

When installing, be careful with the edge of the lock mate. Although it is thick, it is pointed at the top and is easy to break. This will not particularly affect the strength of the lock, but if the broken piece remains in the groove, a step may form at the junction of the panels, which may not be immediately noticed.

It is very difficult to assemble the laminate in the opposite direction with this type of 3G lock. Therefore, I do not recommend using Egger laminate with Just Clic lock for technically difficult threshold-free installations.

5G laminate plastic lock. Advantages and Disadvantages

In 2004, the Valinge laboratory released a relatively new locking principle for 5G floor coverings. Structurally, the difference from its predecessor was in the end joint. The connection and latching of the lock along the short part was carried out using a plastic tongue.

This system worked as follows: the board being laid was inserted along the long part into the groove of the previous row, closely adjacent to the end of the previous plank and smoothly lowered. The plastic tongue has a staple-like shape and, when pressed, goes into a groove. And when the panel lies completely, it clicks into the recess of the laid laminated panel, closing it.

Thus, it became possible to install by inserting and assembling the laminate one board at a time. This method generally speeds up the installation process, but not always. It all depends on the design of the lock, each manufacturer has its own, and other features, for example, thickness.

There are two types 5G laminate locks with plastic

Few people paid attention to it in articles, because it is not mentioned, and copywriters do not know this. But there is a laminate with 5G plastic locks on different sides of the laminated panel.

When I receive a phone call from a customer, the first thing I do is ask what brand of laminate they are going to install. If “Classen” plays, I’m generally calm. Although it is not the most convenient to install, and for this reason.

The end lock has a long platform with a thick partition, so it is nominally strong to break. But the partition is designed at a right angle and, if you have to disassemble the laminate to trim the first row, this part is easy to break even for me, with my work experience.

The long part of the groove has a rounded shape with a high side. Therefore, the slats are inserted at a high angle, which in some cases is inconvenient, but strong.

It’s easy to move laminated panels in the opposite direction, this is the advantage of 5G types of locks over 3G.

In general, the lock is not bad, but difficulties may arise when assembling/disassembling the first row of laminate.

Pros of the 5G Click lock

  • Laminate flooring with a 5G plastic lock is more convenient to assemble in long rooms due to the absence of the need to lift and insert the entire row, as with a coating with a classic connection. Laminate 3G with a small lock, if the base is uneven, with large size rooms can be difficult to insert into the groove of the previous row. And by the time you reach the end, the beginning may simply fall out of the groove. Let me remind you that a row of laminate is achieved with a tool when it is completely inserted at an angle into the previous one.

  • When laying laminate flooring without gaps between rooms, you regularly have to install the panels with the back of the lock. Laminate flooring with a plastic tongue is much easier to insert this way, installing only one board. Whereas the classics need to be linked together in a whole series.
  • A 5G keystone connection is faster to assemble if you work together. Since you can lay 2 or 3 rows at the same time.

Cons of the 5G Click Lock

  • Slightly more expensive price. Rubles for 50-100 per m2.
  • Sometimes after installation, plastic locks may click into place. When connecting a laminate with a classic coupling, the tongue is immediately inserted into the groove and remains in the recess, even if it diverges a little. And the plastic tongue, due to the curvature of the base or a violation of the geometry of the bar, simply will not reach the groove and may creak or click.

By the way, I believe this is the reason why most laminates with 5G locks have a bevel. The cracks on it are not so noticeable. Read

  • When laminated panels are skewed in the other direction during installation, the locks overlap. And on the board being laid it can form a crease in the edges. This usually occurs on 8mm thick laminate, e.g.
  • Most types of 5G lock have difficulty in assembling the first row, but not all. I still haven’t fully figured out why for some brands the installation process occurs normally - the plastic insert springs and then snaps into place. And for some, serious difficulties arise when assembling the first row. You have to pump the bar in or lay it flat on the lock and hit it with your hand at an angle of 45 degrees in the desired direction.
  • Difficult to describe technical details, repeating again... Another minus is the difficulty of disassembling. It often becomes necessary to remove the first row to trim the panels along the contour of the uneven walls. This is done to close the gap with a skirting board between the laminate and the wall. If there is significant curvature, a plastic or MDF plinth will not be able to close the gap. If dismantling the panels is done by yourself in a simple way, lifting the panel 45 degrees and pulling it out of the groove, as is done in classic 3G, then for most 5G connections part of the lock will simply fly off. If the protrusion on the end lock is located at a right angle.

UniFit laminate lock (Egger)

I will describe the last lock in this article from the Egger company. The UniFit connection appeared recently, from the start of installation it feels like about a year ago, but I could be wrong. The clutch design along the long part is derived from Unilin with all the ensuing advantages. And the end part is equipped with a plastic insert. Thus, Egger Pro and Egger Home are the carrier of the 5G lock. But Egger’s new collections still have a 3G latch.

The ridge along the long part of the board resembles an arrow-shaped shape. For this reason, it fits easily into the groove of the previous plank and, what is important, at a slight angle. In principle, it can be hammered, like the Quick Step, parallel to the floor. However, the spike is flat on the underside. It seems to me that if the base is uneven, this design is easier to jump out of the groove.

The end lock consists of a groove and a plastic insert located in it. When the panel is snapped into place, the insert, resting against the edge of the previous board, slides in and then snaps out. Thus, falling into place and locking the connected panels. This design doesn’t look very impressive, but it does its job.

In principle, this connection is convenient, although I do not like the placement of the plastic insert in the form of an “S” in place of the spike.

Unfortunately, in my collected collection of scraps I did not find the 5G Kronotex lock - which I liked. There are also no cuts from leading manufacturers Berry-Alloc and Pergo. Let me draw your attention to the fact that Pergo has a connection like Quick Step and a 5G plastic lock.

Alloc laminate lock – expert review

While I was writing the article, I almost forgot about the laminated coating from the Norwegian manufacturer, about which the story would have been incomplete and was disgraced by critics. Alloc is the most expensive laminate I know in Russia.

The high cost of this brand is explained by a specialized aluminum lock that can withstand heavy loads and its place of origin: Norway is an expensive country.

The Alloc lock's locking device is based on the connection of planks by means of a metal plate cut into each panel from the bottom along the long and short parts. Accordingly, the entire tensile load falls on the aluminum side of the part - stronger than any HDF.

The width of the plate allows the panels to be mounted at almost zero angle.

Allok's advantages are obvious. Why not include it in the best lock?

  • Expensiveness of the product. Whose cost exceeds the price of the closest premium competitors by an average of 1000 rubles.
  • Low feasibility of use in an apartment. Despite the impressive density and, accordingly, durability of the coating, as well as the impregnation of panels with moisture-resistant compounds, laminate is afraid of moisture, like other brands. This is evidenced by a visit to one order, where the old laminated floor, which was Allok, was dismantled. It feels like it was watered from a basin, although the service life of the laminate at that time was about 7 years. What the customers kindly informed me about after my question about the service life.

  • Quite a complicated installation of Alloc. This concerns not so much the insertion of one board into another, but the complexity of sawing. If the laminate board is positioned incorrectly during cutting, it is easy to tear off the metal lock integrated into the HDF panel. As a result, the laid laminate clicks.

The best laminate lock - summary, review

As you may have guessed from the text, the best laminate lock for me is the Uniclic 3G-Click connection. It is easy to insert, minimizing the possibility of edge bending. Uniclic is quick to work with and has a strong, tear-resistant connection. The ability to insert laminate under door frames without cutting off part of the lock. What is important when deciding to replace the flooring when there is no desire to update the doors.

It is also not the most difficult of the 3G latch types when laying the floor in the opposite direction.

5G laminate locks are modern, which is positioned in advertising brochures as an easier option. The principles of this type of docking are speed of assembly, simplicity, and accessibility.

But this is not entirely true. A technically more complex product is more susceptible to the risk of defects due to uneven floors and irregularities in the geometry of the planks, especially for 8mm thick laminate. The installation speed drops, since most brands of laminate still need to be reinforced with finishing timber.

However, the 5G Click connection is more convenient when installing laminate in the opposite direction. This type of installation is required with a continuous flooring method.

This article expresses my personal opinion based on installing many thousands of meters of laminate flooring. As a craftsman, it doesn’t matter to me whether a laminated floor is laid with what type of 3G or 5G lock, except in cases of continuous installation.

I focus buyers not only on the type of locking connection, but also on a manufacturer with more reliable geometry and overall quality (film strength, wear resistance class).

  • The weakest lock is laminateKronostar,Kronopol,Oktoberfest (SwissKrono) and many Chinese
  • The most difficult lock to assemble is many Chinese ones,Ritter, Lamineli
  • The most durable - laminateAlloc with metal lock
  • The most convenient lock -?
  • The best laminate lock -Uniclic,Quick-Step (author's choice)

In this article I express my personal opinion based on re-read articles and personal observations.

Good luck with your choice! You can ask - as soon as I read it, I will definitely answer.

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

In 1979, the Swedish company Perstorp AB (in the future Pergo) introduced a new floor covering through the IKEA chain of stores - laminate. Since the technology was just being developed, the new product did not yet have locking joints or even tongue-and-groove edges. A breakthrough was made in 1994, when Välinges took out a patent for a unique development - the world's first mechanical connection for parquet, parquet boards and laminate flooring.

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

Diagram of the first locking connections for laminate flooring.

Subsequently, the structure of the connecting elements continues to be refined and at the end of 2001 a patent was published for a locking system in which two adjacent plates are closed at an angle of 45°, and after pressing (snapping) a mechanically tight bond is obtained. It is thanks to this development that the laminate with Click lock, so well known today, is produced. This marks the beginning of the era of glueless joining of floor slabs.

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

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

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

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

Laminate with an adhesive joining system is no longer produced, although you can occasionally find crafts from Chinese “masters” on sale. Let's consider the most interesting options from such giants as Egger, Quick Step, Balterio, Alloc.

Just Click by Egger

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

Uniclic by Quick Step

The development of the Belgian plant is no less interesting. The engineering profile provides the possibility of both classic snapping at an angle and the method of attaching or knocking out planks. This best solution for beginners.

The locking complex from Unilin is convenient for rooms with a complex perimeter, the presence of hard-to-reach places or various “obstacles” - pipes, podiums, low installed radiators etc.

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

PressXpress by Balterio

Such laminate interlocking connections are called 3G, 4G or 5G. That is, an element is added to the structure of the Click-joint - a plastic “tongue”, aluminum grips or protrusions, which provide improved adhesion and prevent the planks from diverging over time (the formation of longitudinal and transverse cracks). One of the brightest representatives of this group is PressExpress from the Belgian plant Balterio. A well-designed “additive” to the main coupling eliminates even a hint of the appearance of gaps between the lamellas and significantly strengthens the joint area. Thanks to this solution, the finished floor covering will withstand significant weight without the slightest damage.

Let us note one drawback. According to reviews from craftsmen, when reassembled, plastic inserts become more of a nuisance element than an auxiliary one, so they are most often removed with pliers. And to obtain a tight joint, sealing gels or sealing masses are used.

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

Laminate flooring with aluminum locks from Allok is unusual in itself. Being a very successful modification of two basic types of joints, the metal “tenon and groove” increases the reliability of the clutch and speeds up the assembly mechanism. In addition, this scheme allows you to reduce the weight of the floor covering, which is a significant advantage for floors with reduced load-bearing capacity.

According to the manufacturer aluminum profile on both long sides of the plank, supplemented with a stiffening rib, increases the tensile strength of the connection. The limit according to test reports is 1200 kg/linear. m. That is why aluminum locks are used exclusively in floor coverings of class 33-34, intended for areas with heavy foot traffic. The floor covering can be disassembled and reassembled 3 times.

Which laminate lock is better?

Let us dispel the most widespread myth that the best flooring is made from a laminated flooring with a Click lock. In fact, flooring material with any type of interlocking connection is designed in such a way as to end up with a perfectly smooth surface without protrusions, cracks or squeaks. Service life and build quality depend on:

  1. availability of original coating from well-known brands;
  2. professionalism of the installers;
  3. strict adherence to instructions.

The Lock connection, unlike its analogue, does not stretch as much over time, so the cover with the Lock-lock is more convenient to reassemble. The click hitch is more rigid, but subject to high density slabs - at least 750 kg/m 3. Let’s make the choice easier for our readers - in large shopping centers, 85% of the assortment is laminate with the Click system.

Let's destroy another stereotype. Some craftsmen claim that the click-lock allows you to lay laminate flooring with differences exceeding the permissible 2 mm per 2 linear meters of surface. We will disappoint such would-be specialists - not a single type of connection is designed to smooth out significant irregularities; an even, solid base is always required. Only in this case will you get a smooth, beautiful and functional floor that will last for at least two decades.

Advice! If you need repairmen, there is a very convenient service for selecting them. Just submit in the form below detailed description work that needs to be done and you will receive offers with prices from construction teams and companies by email. You can see reviews about each of them and photographs with examples of work. It's FREE and there's no obligation.

The lock of the laminate is the most important indicator of quality; its execution largely determines general view 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 in 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 when complex configuration premises. 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, this was the only time I encountered a customer’s desire to remove the old laminate flooring 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. A small disadvantage of this type of lock is 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 available for 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. With the length of an ordinary room being 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. There is a plastic insert 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, but has a downside - 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 looks similar to the Uniclik system, which entails the temptation to knock something out, 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 from different sides of the boards, 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 blow of a fist. High assembly speed.

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 the standard way, in whole rows; it’s better to work together. The quality is at the level of the average price category, without differences in height and gaps. When assembling, there is no feeling of a clear fixation of the lamella. Quite complex work in doorways, the method for fitting to the door frame by cutting off the lock ridge is relevant in inconspicuous places. With this type of lock it is difficult to achieve high-quality installation using the now widespread “entire apartment without thresholds” method. 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, a very high quality lock with an aluminum insert, for ordinary apartments it does not have any advantages, its main advantage is a strong mechanical connection that can prove itself in large areas, where for a conventional laminate, the installation of dividing thresholds is required. Ease of installation and clear fixation are a plus. Price is a minus. Compared to the same Classen, given the huge selection of colors for a small apartment, the purchase can hardly be called advisable.

Conclusions:

This article describes only those locks that our masters work with constantly; there are a huge number of different trade names, but the essence remains the same. Padded adhesive locks are a thing of the past. Modern locks 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 the use of 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 the successful design of Uniclik locks from Quick-Step, which allow laying laminate flooring in “difficult places” with minimal damage to the lock, and their experience in using coatings from the manufacturer of the same name allows them to give it an “excellent” rating. The preference is for Belgian-made laminate, with 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.


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