Castle uniclic. Uniclic multifit: innovative locking connection. Uniclic by Quick Step

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

Why do we need different types of locks

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

Already now we can safely say that some types of laminate locks are clearly outdated.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

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

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

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

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

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

Lock system locks

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

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

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

Click system locks

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

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

It is possible to distinguish a number positive sides given system:

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

What is better Click or Lock?

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

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

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

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

Lock systems

Lock with plastic plate

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

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

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

Click with aluminum plate

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

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

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

Tarkett T-Lock

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

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

5G

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

Megalock

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

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

Systems from other manufacturers

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

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

Conclusion

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

Laminate is a modern flooring that has recently become widespread in our country. Its popularity is explained by high aesthetic and quality characteristics at the best price, affordable for a buyer with an average level of income.

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

The basis for the design of the laminate is an HDF board. high density, in the thickness of which a lock is cut, thanks to which the installation of the floor is simple and subject to a person who does not have the skills of a builder-finisher. There are a large number of castle structures that differ both in design and assembly technique. Many manufacturers develop their own lock systems, and some manufacturers use previously developed ones.

	ProLoc interlock The ProLoc system is developed and patented by Pergo. The system provides a triple locking system, the installation of the laminate is simple, the joints are treated with wax impregnation. The lock perfectly holds the panels in tight contact and withstands heavy loads. This is one of the most secure locks.
	Lock connection 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, withstands heavy loads. Provides easy installation with an excellent end result.
	ProClick interlock PROClic is an innovative development from Egger. Differs in the special geometry allowing to stack on one element. It has high resistance to point loads and tensile strength.
	Locking connection Click Xpress ClickXpress is a development of the Balterio concern. The system is truly revolutionary. Allows you to assemble the laminate very quickly, while the panel joints are difficult to find. The lock allows, if necessary, repeatedly mount and dismantle the floor.
	Uniclic interlock The unique Uniclic system is developed by Quick Step. Differs in an original design of elements. Assembly of 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 interlock Megaloc is a development of the German manufacturer Classen. This is an innovative invention that allows you to speed up the process of assembling a laminate by 3 times. On the end side of the panel there is an additional movable plastic lock. The assembly is carried out on the long side, as usual, and on the short side, it is enough to 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.
	Lock connection Connect System ConnectSystem is another development from Classen. The system gained great popularity due to its unique streamlined shape. It provides smoothing of the irregularities of the base due to the movable joints at the joints, compensating for the resulting stress between the laminated panels. IsoWaxx edge protection wax protects joints from moisture ingress.
	Lock connection LocTec The LocTec system is Witex's own development. Possesses high rates of durability. This is one of the strongest castles. All edges are treated with wax impregnation, which protects the joints from moisture ingress.
	T-Lock connection The T-Lock system is a Tarkett development that has become widespread in the flooring market. Many manufacturers have adopted this lock. The system very securely 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 slight pressure until it clicks.

The lock of the laminate is the most important indicator of quality; it largely depends on its performance general form coatings. The presence of a good lock will allow you to get closer to the answer to the question: “which laminate is better”.

Patented by Quick-Step. The locking system is very convenient when laying laminate in doorways, corners and in confined spaces. The board can be snapped either by the standard method, at an angle of 25-30 degrees, or by laying the board completely on the floor, by padding.

Another indisputable advantage - the ability to stack and snap boards both on the left and on the right, is important in a complex configuration of the room. The boards snap into place very easily, with a characteristic clear click. Treatment against moisture penetration, present.

According to the manufacturer, the system allows you to repeatedly disassemble the boards without damaging them. In his fifteen years of practice, the only time I encountered the desire of the customer to remove old laminate and transfer it to the dacha. In any case, the laminate deforms during operation and takes on uneven floors, 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, first of all, during the usual laying 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 and gaps. A small minus of this type of lock is the ability to diverge along the short side of the boards. It is connected with a very small protrusion of the latch from below, seen in the photo.

LockT-lock and 2-lock

It was produced and is still found on sale by the Tarkett concern (a new lock is replacing it). Feature- a large angle of elevation of the board is not required during installation, an angle of 20 -25 degrees is enough. T-Lock is well-known, but at the same time, quite old, it requires the assembly of the entire series. For one person, this is a time-consuming task, and sometimes impossible. With the length of an ordinary room of six meters, the slightest shift of any panel at the end joint, to the left or right, will require disassembly of the entire row. Also, transverse joints are often visible,

Moreover, this feature is observed in different collections. This defect is most noticeable on collections of dark tones. During installation, you can feel the moment when the board sat down in place, although not as clearly as with Quick-Step. In our work, in the vast majority of cases, a laminate with a thickness of 8 millimeters is used, for longitudinal locks, the protrusion is rather weak - often, when it is snapped again, it breaks off. Moisture protection 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 a new lock, and without any increase in price. The old and new locks 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 the protection against moisture ingress. The tear test showed a result eight times higher than the parameters laid down, according to the EN13329 standard, which can significantly reduce the number of chips, the divergence of the boards. Boxes with a new lock are marked accordingly. From personal experience, laminate with such locks, going great. Fixation - without any effort, the installation speed is significantly increased. Assembly can be done by one person.

Lock -

From the manufacturer Classen. A plastic insert is installed at the end of the board, which allows you to snap the board in 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 laying speed, unlike standard methods, it is not required to collect one long strip, which allows one person to work comfortably, without outside help. Very high quality factory protection against moisture.

Pergo PerfectFold 3.0 locking system

A variety of locks with a plastic insert. Very easy assembly process. Assembly can be done without a partner. No additional tool is required. Convenience and speed of installation, has a downside - repeated disassembly leads to breakage of the lock combs. It must be collected immediately, without errors. You should be wary of "self-confident masters." The lock looks similar to the Uniclik system, which entails the temptation to knock something out, knock on something, and so on. The result is inevitably damaged locks.

A characteristic, soft click will notify you of the correct installation. Assembly is possible from different sides of the boards, both from the crest and from the groove. Actual when assembling floors without thresholds.

No complaints were found during operation.

Lock -Proclic andJustclic

From the manufacturer Egger, good locks, Pro does not require the assembly of the entire row, the board is besieged from above with a fist. High assembly speed.

Just-clic came to replace him. Unlike the old one, it requires a complete assembly of the row during installation. The profile of the lock in the form of an oval follows the contours of the tongue and groove with minimal gaps. Very accurate lining of the castle elements, requires perfect cleanliness inside.

Purely subjectively, I liked the first option more, fixation, without a pronounced click, although in both cases, there are no complaints. The surface is perfectly flat.

Lock -twinclick

Russian manufacturer Kronospan. Virtually indistinguishable from Tarkett's T-lock. It allows you to assemble the laminate only in a standard way, in whole rows, it is better to work together. The quality is at the level of the middle price category, without differences in height and gaps. When assembling, there is no feeling of a clear fixation of the lamella. Quite difficult work in doorways, the method for fitting under the door frame, by cutting off the comb of the lock, is relevant in inconspicuous places. With this type of lock, it is difficult to achieve high-quality styling by the now common method “the whole apartment without thresholds”. On well-lit surfaces, all tricks, in the form of a cut-off lock, will be noticeable, which is fraught with rapid wear of the protruding part.

Locks in inexpensive collections do not hold moisture at all, it is necessary to treat them with Click Guard sealant. Today, this is already nonsense, given the cost of the sealant and the laboriousness - it is better to choose the option with a waterproof lock.

Lock -Alloc

From a Norwegian manufacturer, very high quality, a lock with an aluminum insert, for ordinary apartments does not have any advantages, its main advantage is a strong mechanical connection that can prove itself in large areas, where for conventional laminate, the installation of dividing thresholds is required. Ease of installation and a clear fixation is a plus. The price is minus. Compared to the same Classen, given the huge selection of colors, for small apartment, the purchase can hardly be called expedient.

Conclusions:

In this article, only those locks with which our masters work constantly are described, there are a huge number of different trade names, but the essence remains the same. Glue padlocks are a thing of the past. Modern locks that allow you to work without glue and sealants are well developed and reliable, provide high quality and durability. The only difference is the ease of installation.

Contrary to the statements of the manufacturers, the possibility of laying coatings without the use of additional tools, upsetting boards using a bar or a piece of a lock from another lamella is always required! Light sampling of gaps should be carried out necessarily. .

Given the allowable micron gaps, laying work, with 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 required!

A laminate 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 elevation in the transverse joint.

All well-known manufacturers in Russia 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 paper "Snow Maiden". 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 buy a laminate without moisture protection of locks, this is no longer relevant, the difference in price is negligible, and the service life differs significantly.

The craftsmen who work for us note the successful design of Quick-Step Uniclik locks, which allow laying laminate in “difficult places” with minimal damage to the lock, and experience in operating coatings from the same manufacturer allows us to give it an “excellent” rating. Preference for Belgian-made laminate, Russian Quick-Step, with quality, yet, not everything is so smooth yet. There is no ease and clarity of assembly. The Uniclic lock is used by the Kastomonu concern, which produces laminate in the city of Yelabuga. The rating "good" honestly deserves the new TC-Lock from TARKETT.

Variety of sizes, colors and textures. This is not limited to the choice of laminate flooring. An additional factor according to the decision of the acquisition of a particular material can become a connection system. Consider the most popular types of laminate locks that provide the necessary technical requirements for laying. We will also figure out which locking system is best suited for each specific case. And finally, we will give a few recommendations for installation and maintenance.

Several decades have passed since the creation of such a coating as a laminate. During this time, technology has changed a lot, this also applies to locks. Every 2-3 years, manufacturers introduce a new type of connection, arguing this with improved stability and ease of installation. However, each prototype comes down to two basic ones: Lock and Click. Let's consider them in more detail.

The most popular collapsible systems that have won the recognition of laying masters. For each of these types of castles, there are many subspecies. Some of them can be found only in individual manufacturers, while others, on the contrary, are in service with most well-known laminate manufacturers.

Both basic systems are based on a tenon-and-groove connection. The difference is only in the profiling of the connecting parts.

Which lock is better Lock or Click

We will make a comparison according to the characteristics that are most relevant for the buyer.

cheaper;
tight connection.

with prolonged use (with a deviation from the installation and operation standards), gaps between the lamellas may appear;
a more complex laying process using a mallet and a padding strip;
the risk of damage to the lock during installation.

ease of installation;
installation is made without additional tools;
increased strength;
during operation, the lock does not wear out, cracks do not appear;
a tight connection is ensured when using double locks;
possibility of mounting on imperfect flat surface;
safe assembly with minimal chance of damaging the lock;
the 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, the name of the compound is translated as "castle". This method of fastening laminated panels is one of the very first. At present, this type of surface closure is technologically obsolete.

On the one hand, the mating surfaces are a groove, on the other hand, a spike, which are cut by a cutter on the bearing layer of the board.

The installation principle is as follows:

An attached board is attached to the board located on the floor at an angle of 0 °.
To opposite side lamellas are substituted with a padding block.
With light blows of the mallet on the bar, we achieve tight contact until the gap is eliminated.

Advice: tamping should be done carefully, without extra effort, since with strong blows with a mallet, there is a high probability of damage to the lock.

When correct installation connection, the spike fully enters the groove, the comb fixes into the spike in the recess and prevents the adjacent panels from coming out of the hitch. This type of lock is also called a lock.

The weak link in the design is precisely the comb, which takes most of the stress on itself. The connection between the groove and the thorn is quite tight, however, with frequent loads on the lock, the comb is abraded. In the future, 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 with the elimination of the smallest particles of construction debris and the use of a substrate material that will not give a strong subsidence during operation. Otherwise, any "pebble" under the coating will create additional stress in the castle, reducing the life of your flooring.

Otherwise, even though the technology is outdated. This type of laminate lock provides all the necessary performance properties, subject to proper installation and further use. However, manufacturers prefer the Click system, so find " old version”is becoming more and more difficult (if we are not talking about Chinese fakes, but about certified manufacturers).

Click locks

A relatively new technology, according to which the panels are fixed by means of snaps. The main distinguishing features from Lock, apart from the installation method, is a different shape of the tongue with a groove profiling for it.

The spike is also located on the carrier plate and looks like a small hook.

The installation method is as follows:

A panel to be mounted is brought to the board laid on the floor at an angle of 45°. The angle may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so this point needs to be clarified.
The hook is driven into the groove.
The panel is lowered to the horizontal.
A characteristic click is heard, the connection is made.

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

There is no need for additional tools during installation. You don’t need to make special efforts, finish it off with a mallet or hammer too. Otherwise, the key edge may be damaged.

Note: if, when fixing the plank, a small gap remains, then to select it, it is necessary to lightly tap with a mallet on a previously substituted bar or other laminate board. This must be done carefully so as not to spoil the lock element.

This type The connection is characterized by good density and operational 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 by the Click system can be reassembled. However, it is worth considering that during the life of 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 fits (unlike Lock), but this does not mean that the base does not need to be leveled. An even base for laminate is a prerequisite for installation.

Let's consider several subtypes of the Click system, which are the most popular.

Uniclic

It is mainly represented by the Quick Step brand. Installation can be done by simple snapping - for this it is enough to bring one panel to another at an angle of 25-30 ° and fix it. There is also the possibility of laying horizontally with joint padding, for laying in the last row.

It has fairly good strength properties. Withstands a tensile load of up to 450 kg per linear meter.

System advantages:

the lock snaps into place without much effort;
reassembly is possible;
laying both from left to right and from right to left;
moisture treatment.

Minuses:

over time, the lock may disperse along the end of the bar due to the low ridge in the groove.

JUST clic and UNI fit

Patented systems under the Egger brand.

JUST click replaced Pro clic. Unlike its predecessor, assembly of the entire series is required. The bar has two identical tongues and two identical grooves, which makes it possible to engage on both sides. It has a high assembly speed.

The groove and spike are profiled in the form of a conjugated oval, in connection with which a tighter contact is provided over an increased contact area. The gaps in the lock are minimal, so even the smallest debris is not allowed - check the strips before mounting.

Lamel with a lock UNI-fit can be fixed to the previous row separately, that is, it is not necessary to assemble a whole row for subsequent fastening. The spikes and grooves on the end and the 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 one additional retaining element on the top of the slot missing. As a result, a lower contact density is observed.

Majority modern models Pergo laminates are equipped with the ProLock system. Both types of locks have a water-repellent impregnation, which, coupled with a massive fiberboard base, makes this coating well protected from moisture (for more better protection seam sealers are used).

ClickXPress, DropXPress, PressXPress

Represented by the brand Balterio.

ClickXPress represents a bunch of groove-thorn with a profiling of the lower part in the form of an oval conjugation. Laying is done at an angle of 45°.

The advantages of this connection include:

reliability;
strength;
imperceptible 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 friction force, since the lowering of the board at an angle of 0 ° from top to bottom occurs with an interference fit.

This method has its advantages:

increased laying speed;
ease of installation
the same locks for the end and the long part

PressXPress- mounts with a counter-element, included in the new generation of 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 Domotex FitXPress, which will be used on Balterio's Magnitude Series laminate flooring, replacing PXP. The difference between the locks lies in 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 tab is located in the groove, not on the tongue. Just like on the Pergo coating, it is used wax impregnation for moisture insulation.

Installation is carried out in separate panels, and not a whole row at once. Boards are laid at an angle until they click. Work can be done alone without outside help. If necessary, disassemble the connection is not difficult.

T-lock, 2-lock, TC-lock

Featured by Tarkett

T-lock- satisfied old technology, on the this moment quite common, but being superseded modern systems. It has a relatively small joining angle of panels of the order of 20-25°.

Laying may require the participation of several people, since it is necessary to mount the panels in rows as a whole. At the slightest shift of one of the boards, you will have to disassemble the entire row and start the process again.

Of the minuses can be identified:

the joint is visible on the end of the laminate, especially in dark colors;
with repeated use, the lock along the long part of the lamella may be deformed.

2 lock- newer model. It has a plastic tab to secure the connection. Allows for quick and easy styling even to one person - the assembly is carried out not in a whole row, but in one panel.

TC lock is a T-lock receiver. It is becoming more widespread. The cost does not exceed its predecessor. Unfortunately, old collections cannot be docked with the new TC-lock system due to the height difference.

Perhaps this is the only negative, let's focus on the pros:

there is a tighter contact during coupling, therefore, the probability of moisture getting into the interlock 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

Represented by the Russian brand Kronospan. At its core, it is an analogue of T-lock. It is also not possible to lay one panel at a time - it is necessary to assemble the entire row, which is not always convenient, especially when the installation is performed by one person.

When fixing the board in the groove, there is no pronounced click. It is better not to use this type of lock for laying laminate with a solid floor throughout the apartment, since there is a possibility of raising the joints under loads.

On models of laminate, which is in a low price category, there is very little protection against moisture.

LocTec

Patented Witex laminate locking system. Refers to high-strength compounds. 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.

Docking points are impregnated with a special water-repellent mastic.

Alloc

Introduced by a Norwegian flooring manufacturer. The quality is up to the mark. Has an aluminum insert. It has excellent strength properties, so it is most often used on commercial grade 33 and 34 laminate, which is designed for laying in places with increased operational load.

The advantage in strength becomes especially noticeable in large rooms. For such places, it is possible to lay a laminate without thresholds over the entire area. For ordinary apartments, the installation of such a coating is not advisable, since the high price exceeds the benefits that are not destined to be revealed at home.

Lock processing

Most modern laminate models are protected from moisture in the form of impregnation of the interlock with wax, paraffin, and special mastic. If for some reason you have purchased panels that are not subject to this procedure, then you yourself can perform simple manipulations that will increase protection against moisture.

Such formulations are available in liquid or paste forms. Of particular difference is what consistency you choose. The main thing is that you feel comfortable using the composition.

Advice: if possible, it is worth buying a laminate with protection of 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 mask the seams.

Modern laminate models are equipped with convenient locks that allow you to perform a high-quality joint. In addition, most of them have water-repellent properties and do not need additional processing.

Experienced craftsmen perform installation for any system without loss of connection quality. If you are a beginner, then when choosing the type of laminate locks, preference should be given to models from the 5g generation with a fixing polymer tongue. In this case, laying will be carried out quickly and easily even alone.

I am rarely asked “what kind of laminate lock is better, more convenient or stronger” and it is clear why such a question is not relevant. The buyer considers the product as a whole, focusing on the final result - appearance, comfort, service life of the coating. And how the process of performance of work by hired workers will take place is not important to many. However, lately, people have become more picky, which is right. Therefore, this article will be of interest to many readers who are going to lay the laminate on their own. Or those who have read a lot of information, but have not 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 see products with specific key connections.

The type of key connection, it would seem, does not 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 master - all this contributes or hinders the assembly of the laminate with various types castle. And the difficulty in execution can lead to damage to the coating and disappointment from the results of apartment renovation.

List of articles you need to read before buying laminate flooring.

The brief background written below is important for understanding the whole process of creating and improving key connections. And you can read the conclusions below or draw them yourself.

Joining Valinge and Unilin laminate locks – from Lock to Click a bit of history

In 1977-1979 the Swedish company Perstorp AB (later Pergo) puts on sale laminated parquet with a glue locking system. The development of the laminate was made with the participation of Darko Pervan, who later founded the company Valinge in 1993. In 1994-1996, the Valinge bureau 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 a former employee's generous offer.

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

Many Chinese laminate manufacturers on the Russian market use light modificationLock-lock without brand name fromValinge. Which no longer needs to deduct bonuses, due to expired inventions.

Lock - the lock is driven. He gathers one board at a time with a hammer and finishing bar with significant effort. At the moment, the Lock system is outdated morally and physically, but most importantly, it is really inconvenient to assemble. IT IS NOT VERY USED NOW.

Lock for laminate 3G-Click

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

In narrow circles there are disputes about who is the ancestor of the laminate:Pergo orAlloc.

In the 1990s, Unilin and Quick-Step join forces and launch their own branded laminate flooring for the first time in Belgium.

In 1997, the concern presents a new development - the Uniclic lock, which subsequently collected many awards. The key connection belongs to the 3G class. Unilin credits them with being the first to put the 3G floor locking system into operation. Looking ahead, I’ll say - in my opinion and not only, the Uniclic key connection is the best, at least from those known to me.

From then until 2007, there were disputes between Valinge and Unilin over the legality of activities related to the issuance of a patent to licensees. For example, a similar dispute was waged by Apple and Samsung over the invention of an idea and its implementation for controlling the smartphone screen with the touch of your 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 right holders to use floor panel assembly systems without glue.

In other words, they divided the market. In the context of the foregoing, we take into account that inventions various systems locks are used not only for the convenience of consumers, but to fight competitors and extract financial benefits. Then marketing work is carried out, as a result of which the buyer, with the help of advertising, gets the idea that the new key connection is more effective than the previous one. Although it may not be.

Laminate locks 5G Click

All over the world, there is fierce competition in areas ranging from international politics to the provision of small domestic services. They try to leave opponents in the train in various ways, using various methods for these purposes. Of course, the surest way is to improve your products and service quality.

For example, at one time I also thought about equipment modifications that can be brought in to get ahead of competitors in my field. With a creak, despite the protests of his wife, he acquired a large industrial vacuum cleaner. Even earlier, an idea was peeped with the use of an MFP for trimming door frames. it useful gadgets, facilitating the process of work and making the result more neat.

In 2003-2004, the guys from the marketing company Valinge, led by Darko Pervan, sat down, thought about what could be done to bypass the European neighbors and capture the flooring market. Deciding that it was necessary to work in the field 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 order, but piece by piece, focusing attention on one board, and not on the whole row.

Thus, the 5G Click laminate lock was born. A powerful advertising campaign and explanatory work was carried out. The financial parties were agreed with the licensees, an appropriate allowance was made to the final cost of the product, and everyone was satisfied.

Why this preface? It shows the commercial component of the projects. First of all, everyone wants to derive financial benefits, while showing concern for customers. Even if the real result of an innovative idea turned out to be not as successful in practice as advertised. But launched into a large project and serious money spent, this is not an indicator of its quality. Is it possible to keep silent about the negative aspects of the product?

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

TOTAL:

It can definitely be argued that a more modern castleClick aka 3G and 5G, more durable in locking, more convenient in the installation of a completely obsolete 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 performance, which have their own pluses and minuses. Let me remind you that both refer to the Click connection and the laying method between them is different.

Classic lock - 3G. Floor covering with this type of docking is assembled in rows.
New castle - 5G. This type of laminate is assembled one by one. Now I will explain in more detail.

3G Click lock - description and features with examples

The 3G Click lock has in its design - a thorn on one long and one short side. When assembling, the comb is inserted into the groove of the previous board. The last piece is cut to size, completing the assembly of the first row of laminate.

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

Different manufacturers have their own peculiarities in the design of locks. Between themselves, they differ in the angle at which the bar enters, the long ridge, the thickness of the base of the lock connection. These features complicate or simplify the installation process.

Below are a few examples of a similar type of lock used by leading laminate flooring manufacturers.

Laminate lock T-Lock (Tarkett)

An average lock from a well-known manufacturer in terms of laying complexity. The connection is richly waxed to protect it from moisture, but because of the excess, the paraffin composition periodically rolls off and the strips go tight into the grooves.

The comb is short, with a large length of the room and floor differences, it can be difficult to evenly insert into the groove of the previous row. The design feature of the interlock connection is in the presence of a microstep. Most often, due to its presence, you have to tap a row in two stages for a complete fit.

Tarkett is very difficult to assemble without thresholds between rooms if you want to assemble the rows in the opposite direction. The angle of insertion of the slats is average (about 30 degrees) - because of which it is not possible, without cutting off the lock, to get a laminate under the door frame. Despite this, I like Tarkett himself, but more on that in another article. Recommend when self-laying in a simple room.

Lock laminate Twin Clic (Kronospan)

Pretty good locking. For the first self-assembly I would recommend the Twin Clic lock out of all possible ones. Laminated boards are inserted very easily and effortlessly. The angle at which they start is low, about 15 degrees, which is convenient in the presence of low-cost heating radiators. The relatively thick lip at the base of the lock suggests greater tear resistance.

As with all 3G lock covers, reassembly requires considerable effort. This type of locking model appeals to me. Although there are questions about the geometry of the slats.

Laminate Lock Uniclic (Quick Step)

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

The Uniclic lock from the side looks like an arrowhead - long, about 4 mm, and sharp. The recess where the comb is inserted completely repeats its contour. In such a connection there is no backlash, like most other types of joints.

Due to tight lockUniclic, large contact area and lack of backlash, the connection firmly holds the breaking load. For the same reason, sealing Uniklik is not recommended. The sealant has nowhere to go.

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

Due to the low partition in the counterpart, 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 possibility is necessary for non-threshold laying of a laminate with already installed door blocks when it is necessary to bring the panels under the door frame to avoid gaps.

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

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

With an even connection of the dies at the ends and evenly inserting a row of laminate into the previous one, it is enough to press on the edge of the board and sit in its place. However, we still use the finishing tool. This feature is described more as an amazing mechanical development and serves as an example.

LockUniclic from the floor manufacturerUnilin has the ability to pull locks together. And even on uneven ground it can be assembled with virtually no gaps.

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

Of the minuses of the Uniclic lock connection - high difficulty to insert the last row laminate, if it is narrow. This feature is especially evident in the strips with a thickness of 12 mm.

I recommend the Uniclic locking connection when laying a laminate with your own hands. However, it may be difficult to arrange the second row if the collection has a small board width.

Laminate Lock Just Clic (Egger)

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

Dear readers! At the moment, the Just Clic lock connection occurs irregularly. In Egger there is a substitution for another compound. Periodically, this lock is used in the Artens laminate.

Just Clic - This type of 3G lock is similar to Tarkett's T-Lock. The same short front spike with one advantage over UniClic - it does not need to be cut down when laying. Whereas with Quick-Step it is desirable to cut it off, otherwise, with a significant size of the premises, it may rest against the wall. It happens that the extra 2.5 mm can play a role when setting the gap from the wall.

Just Click from the bottom has a rounded shape and goes into the recess at a high angle, about 40 degrees, which makes it not very convenient for flooring with low-standing heating radiators, especially with door frames installed. If you want to culturally bring the panel under the jamb, you need to cut off the lock with a knife and put the winding and adjacent panel between them on the glue.

Just Clic is a fairly strong fixative. On the reciprocal part of the lock, the base has a rounded shape with a thickening. It turns out the move is such a "semi-bearing". Thanks to this design solution, the breaking connection is quite strong.

During installation, be careful with the edge of the counter part of the lock. Although it is thick, it is pointed at the top and it is easy to break it. This will not particularly affect the strength of the lock, but if the broken piece remains in the groove recess, a step may form at the junction of the panels, which you may not immediately notice.

In reverse, laminate with this type of 3G lock is very difficult to assemble. Therefore, for technically difficult non-threshold laying, I do not recommend using Egger laminate with Just Clic lock.

5G laminate plastic lock. Advantages and disadvantages

In 2004, the laboratory office Valinge published a relatively new principle floor locks 5G. Structurally, the difference from its predecessor consisted in the end joint. The connection and snapping of the lock along the short part was carried out using a plastic tongue.

Such a system worked as follows: the board to be laid was inserted along the long part into the groove of the previous row, closely adjoining the end of the previous plank and smoothly lowered. The plastic tongue has a bracket-like shape and, when pressed, goes into the groove. And when the panel is completely laid down, 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 by one board. 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, other features, for example, thickness.

There are two types 5G locks laminate with plastic

Few people paid attention in the 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 ask is which company's laminate is to be laid. If "Classen" sounds, I'm generally calm. Although it is not the most convenient to install, and here's why.

The end lock has a long platform with a thick partition, so it is nominally tear-resistant. 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 experience.

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

It is easy to wind up laminated panels in the opposite direction, this is the advantage of 5G lock types over 3G.

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

Pros of 5G Click Lock

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

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

Cons of 5G Click Lock

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

By the way, I guess for this reason, most laminate with 5G locks are chamfered. The gaps are not so noticeable on it. read

When the laminated panels are skewed to the other side during installation, the locks overlap. And on a laying board it can form a crease in the edge. This usually happens on an 8 mm thick laminate, for example,
The difficulty in assembling the first row is with most types of 5G lock, but not all. So I didn’t fully figure out why for some brands the installation process takes place in a normal way - the plastic insert springs and then snaps into place. And for some, serious difficulties are created when assembling the first row. You have to pump in the bar or lay it flat on the lock and hit it with your hand at an angle of 45 degrees in the right direction.
It is difficult to describe the technical details that are repeated again ... Another minus is the difficulty of disassembly. Often there is a need to remove the first row to trim the panels along the contour of the wall irregularities. This is done to close the gap with the plinth between the laminate and the wall. With significant curvature, a plastic or MDF plinth will not be able to close the gap. If the panels are dismantled in the simplest way, by lifting the panel 45 degrees and pulling it out of the groove, as is done in the classic 3G, then most 5G connections will simply fly off part of the lock. 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 Egger. The UniFit connection appeared recently, according to the sensations from the beginning of the installations, about a year ago, but I could be wrong. The clutch design along the long part is derived from Unilin with all the ensuing pluses. And the end part is equipped with a plastic insert. Thus, Egger Pro and Egger Home are 5G lock carriers. But Egger's new collections also remained with a 3G latch.

The comb along the long part of the board resembles an arrow-shaped shape. For this reason, it starts easily into the groove of the previous bar and, importantly, 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 with uneven bases, 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 snaps in, the insert, resting against the edge of the previous board, enters and then clicks out. Thus, standing in its place and locking the connected panels. This design does not look very impressive, but it does its job.

In principle, such a connection is convenient, although I like the location of the plastic insert in the form of an “S” in place of the spike less.

Unfortunately, in my collected collection of scraps there was no 5G Kronotex lock - I liked it. There are also no cuts from the leading manufacturers Berry-Alloc and Pergo. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that Pergo has a connection like Quick Step and a 5G plastic lock.

Alloc laminate lock - review of the master

While writing the article, I almost forgot about the laminated coating of the Norwegian manufacturer, about which the story would be incomplete and shamed 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 the place of origin: Norway is an expensive country.

The locking device of the Alloc lock is based on the connection of the strips by means of a metal plate embedded in each panel from the bottom side along the long and short parts. Accordingly, the entire tensile load is carried by the aluminum flange of the part - stronger than any HDF.

The width of the plate allows you to mount the panels at almost zero angle.

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

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

Enough complex installation Alloc. This concerns not so much inserting one board into another, but the complexity of sawing. If the laminate board is not positioned correctly during cutting, it is easy to break 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, which minimizes the possibility of edge crease. With Uniclic it is fast to work, strong connection on a gap. Possibility without cutting off part of the lock to start a laminate under door frames. 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.

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

But this is not entirely true. A technically more complex product is more susceptible to the risk of marriage due to uneven floors, violations of the geometry of the planks, especially for 8mm thick laminate. Installation speed drops, since most brands of laminate still need to be knocked out with a finishing beam.

However, the 5G Click connection is more convenient when installing the laminate in the opposite direction. This type of laying is required for a non-breaking flooring method.

This article expresses my personal opinion based on the installation of many thousands of meters of laminate flooring. As a craftsman, I don't care what type of 3G or 5G lock to lay laminate flooring with, except in cases of seamless laying.

I focus buyers not only on the type of key connection, but also on the manufacturer, which has a more reliable geometry and quality in general (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,Ritter, Lamineli
The most durable - laminateAlloc with metal lock
The most convenient lock -?
The best laminate lock -uniclic,Quick-Step (author's choice)

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

Successful choice! You can ask - as I read it, I will definitely answer.