In this article: how the laminate works; positive and negative characteristics of the laminate; care of the laminate; the meaning of the marking; laminate classification; types of laminate joints; underlay for laminate; criteria for choosing a laminate; prices for laminate.

How to choose the best laminate flooring

Unlike a ceiling, flooring is one of the main concerns for a homeowner. Everything is simple here - the ceiling finish is exposed to much less stress than the floor. The flooring takes the stress of furniture, it is walked on, which means that it is abraded and scratched. Undoubtedly, parquet will be the best floor covering, however, it is quite expensive and requires serious maintenance. An alternative solution here would be laminate - the lower price, rich colors, high-quality imitation of parquet flooring make it quite a worthy substitute for parquet. In addition, the laminate has many positive qualities inherent in parquet flooring.

How the laminate works

Laminate class 31-33 consists of five layers: the top (front) layer of malamine or acrylate resin, underneath is a decorative paper layer, below is a moisture-resistant film, the fourth layer is an HDF panel (laminate base) and the last, fifth layer is moisture resistant paper. A lower quality laminate for residential use (class 21-23) consists of only 3 layers.

The designation HDF is translated from English as "high density wood board" - this material is much stronger than the widely known MDF or fiberboard panels, since it is produced under higher pressure.

The highest quality is considered to be a laminate, in which the layers are mirror-like with respect to the central base layer, i.e. the bottom layer, like the top one, is made of synthetic resin. The difference between the front layer and the bottom layer is that the bottom layer has no decorative pattern.

The main characteristics of the laminate

Laminate flooring, as a rule, imitates the externally texture of various types of wood, however, there are brands of laminate with a pattern that has departed from the classic parquet canons - granite, marble, tiles, carpets, abstract paintings.

The laminate flooring consists of rectangular panels, 1000x2000 mm in size, consisting in turn of rectangular segments 1000 mm long and 200 mm wide or squares with a side of 380 mm (there are also squares with a side of 190 mm). Laminate thickness from 6 to 12 mm.

Unlike parquet flooring, laminate flooring does not require any special maintenance - it does not need polishing and scrapping to clean its surface; ordinary wet cleaning is enough. The legs and wheels of the home furniture do not cause any harm to the laminate. The laminate flooring is water-resistant and environmentally friendly, it is quite warm. It is difficult to get dirty - even random drops of varnish or paint can be easily removed with a cloth dipped in acetone. It is resistant to high temperatures - the proximity of heating devices, accidentally falling cigarette butt will not damage it.

The main disadvantage of the laminate is the unprotected edges. They do not have a synthetic resin coating, which means they are more fragile and susceptible to moisture. The slightest disruption to the technological process in the production of laminate will lead to rapid damage to the edges, so it will be correct to choose a laminate from well-known, well-established manufacturers.

Meaning of laminate markings

Each package of a particular laminate is marked in the form of a picture indicating the class of this laminate coating. The meaning of this marking is as follows:

	The 22nd class of laminate is designed for use in living quarters - children's and living rooms. Maximum service life - 4 years;
	The 23rd class of laminate flooring is also designed only for living quarters, but already with a greater load on the floor surface - hallways, kitchens. Its service life is no more than 4 years;
	From the 31st class, laminate flooring, intended for commercial objects, begins - it is much better than the coating produced for residential premises. Its service life as an office covering will be up to 3 years, but if it is laid in a residential building, then its service life will be much longer - up to 12 years;
	32-grade commercial laminate is intended for use in moderately stressed areas such as classrooms and reception areas. Under these conditions, it will last up to 5 years. If such a laminate is laid in a residential building, its service life will be up to 15 years;
	The maximum - 33rd - class of commercial laminate is intended for high-traffic areas - shops and restaurants. He will serve in these premises for up to 6 years. This is the best laminate for a living space - its service life will be at least 20 years.

In addition to the class designation, there may be additional designations on the laminate packaging:

	Antistatic (does not attract dust);
	It does not require special care
	High resistance to various mechanical damage
	Not flammable
	A lit cigarette won't hurt him
	Hygienic
	Does not fade under the influence of ultraviolet radiation
	Household cleaning products will not harm him
	Low wear resistance, chairs should be equipped with soft rollers
	Can be used as a covering on a "warm" floor

Today, the minimum class of laminate is 21st, the maximum is 33rd. Some manufacturers indicate the 34th class on the packages - this class does not exist!

What does laminate classification mean and how is it determined

The double-digit class of laminate flooring denotes its durability - in other words, how long the laminate flooring will last before it is frayed. To test the laminate for wear resistance, it is subjected to the "Taber test": the included grinder is placed on it and grinded with an abrasive wheel until damage appears. During the test, it calculates the number of revolutions made by the abrasive wheel and determines the class of this laminate: 7000-11000 revolutions correspond to the 21-22 class, 11000-15000 characterize the 23-31st class, 15000-20000 revolutions of the abrasive wheel correspond to 32-33- class of laminated flooring.

Why is this method used to determine the durability of a laminate? The fact is that the main reason for the wear of the laminated flooring is walking on it. Accordingly, the more and more often people walk on the laminated flooring, the faster it will wear off. During the "Taber-test" the role of shoe soles, abrading the laminate, is performed by a grinder. This test method of laminate is carried out according to the European standard EN 13329 (there is no Russian GOST for laminate), and the laminate is classified according to the European standard EN 685.

Two types of laminate panel joining

In any case, it is produced by the "floating floor" method - its panels are connected only to each other and are not attached to the base. There are two types of laminate, distinguished by the way these panels are connected to each other - adhesive (tongue / groove connection) and locking, better known as quick step laminate.

Laminate panels intended for adhesive bonding are bonded to each other at the ends - using a special, fast-drying adhesive. Only professionals can lay such a laminate. this requires special skills and tools - in particular, special straps for fastening panels. The very process of laying the adhesive laminate is long and difficult. It costs less than quick step laminate flooring, but is more expensive to work with as a result. hiring professional performers is required.

The advantage of the adhesive laminate is that the surface formed by it from wall to wall is solid, has no cracks and gaps, i.e. its edges are less vulnerable to moisture than a snap-joint laminate. The main disadvantage (in addition to the complex installation process) is the complete impossibility of repair - if one of the elements of the laid adhesive laminate is damaged, it cannot be removed and replaced without damaging the entire coating.

The lock (glueless) laminate, in turn, is divided into two types - click (collapsible locks) and lock (latches). The locks of the first type are double, located at an angle of 45o, laying the laminate with such a connecting lock is easier to perform, because this work does not require special skills. In addition, laminate panels with a click-lock allow some curvature of the base on which they will be laid (up to 3 mm drop per linear meter). Laying panels with lock locks requires a perfectly level base. If you intend to lay the lock laminate yourself, it is better to opt for a click-lock - it costs more than a lock-lock laminate, but does not require professional skills.

Unlike adhesive laminate, the interlocking laminate can be repaired - if one panel is damaged, it can be replaced by disassembling part of the laminate. In theory, it is possible to dismantle / install the cover from the lock laminate up to six times (as some manufacturers say), in fact, the lock may not succumb to attempts to disassemble it - here you need to be very careful not to damage the panels.

The disadvantage of a laminate with a castle joint is the susceptibility of its joints to moisture - as the operation progresses, the gaps in such a floor covering begin to expand more and more, because after each wet cleaning, moisture penetrates into them, causing the edges to swell and "push" the plates, then dry, exposing the cracks. This process significantly shortens the life of the interlocking laminate, which is why some manufacturers recommend bonding with glue or mastic.

Of great importance when laying the interlocking laminate is the horizontality of the base on which it will be laid. The ideal base should have a difference of no more than 1 mm per two running meters!

The main mistake when laying laminate

It consists in ignoring the underlay - a special material designed to isolate laminate panels from the subfloor. In addition, the underlayment under the laminate provides thermal insulation and sound insulation from noise when walking, protects the laminate panels from moisture.

Laminate from some manufacturers is already equipped with a substrate that is securely attached to each panel - but only some types of laminate, class 32 or higher, are equipped with it. Of course, the cost of such a laminate is quite high - at least 800 rubles / m2.

There are several types of underlay for laminate flooring:

1. polyethylene foam backing, subdivided into foamed (polyethylene foam is chemically crosslinked or filled with gas) and physically crosslinked (using a reagent);
2. cork backing. There are three main types: pressed (from natural cork chips), rubber-cork and bitumen-cork;
3. special backing.

The most popular underlay for laminate is made of polyethylene foam - it is cheap, has excellent moisture resistance, fungi and bacteria will not infect it, insects and rodents will not start in it. Foam laminate flooring is easy to work with and low waste. However, a substrate of this type does not hold its shape well and, as it is used, begins to sag in places, disrupting the horizontality of the entire laminate coating. In addition, the sun's rays (ultraviolet light) seriously damage the foam backing.

Cork laminate backing is an excellent base for floating laminate flooring. Good heat insulator, not subject to mold and decay. The only drawback is that condensation can accumulate on the back of the laminate panels laid on a cork backing.

Bitumen-cork and rubber-cork substrates do not have this flaw. The first consists of bitumen-impregnated kraft paper, coated on both sides with a layer of cork chips. The second is a mixture of compressed rubber and cork. Both of them are superior to the cork substrate in their qualities, they are well cushioned and do not wear down during the operation of the laminate coating.

The special underlays are of the best quality and effectively reduce any noise normally occurring during walking. The natural ventilation created in them prevents the formation of condensation, and laying the laminate on such a base itself takes half the time. However, with all the positive characteristics, such substrates have only one drawback - they are too expensive.

Common to all types of substrates is that they come in sheets and rolls. They smooth the main floor surface, creating the horizontal plane necessary for the laminate flooring.

Laminate quality guarantee

Manufacturers provide a guarantee for the laminate for a period of 5 to 15 years. As mentioned above, there is no Russian GOST for laminate flooring, imported laminate is certified according to the steel profile GOST 4598-86 (Fiber boards. Specifications). Russian-made laminate is produced according to the specifications of each manufacturer. Each batch of laminate must have a hygienic certificate.

Laminate price

Adhesive laminate flooring is currently underrepresented on the market due to its low popularity. The cost of classes 21-23 of adhesive laminate is 420 rubles on average. / m2., 31-33rd grades - an average of 470-520 rubles / m2.

Laminate flooring with a lock-lock: 21-23rd class - from 450 rubles / m2, 31-33rd classes - from 530 rubles / m2.

Laminate with click-lock: 21-23rd class - from 480 rubles / m2, 31-33rd classes - from 570 rubles / m2.

The price, in addition to the class of the laminate, depends on its color.

Substrate under the laminate, depending on the type - from 20 to 160 rubles / m2.

Which laminate to choose

If you choose a laminate for an office space or a commercial facility - at least 32nd class. It will be expensive, but will not create a cause for concern for 5-6 years. For residential premises, it is best to choose also a commercial laminate class - at least 31st. Yes, it is more expensive than the laminate of smaller classes - but it will serve many times longer! Do not skimp on the brand - as a result, such savings will cost you more!

Abdyuzhanov Rustam, specially for RMNT.ru

Manufacturers of laminate, cork floors, parquet boards, PVC tiles and other floor coverings use labeling on product packaging to inform buyers about the properties of a product - special symbols that allow you to briefly and succinctly tell the consumer all important information about the product, thereby interacting with buyers and fulfilling requirements law.

Just imagine how much space this information would take on the packaging if it were presented in text format, and the buyers themselves would hardly read such a multivolume instruction, while with the legend, all the facts at once appear before the buyer at a glance.

Underfloor heating compatibility

If you see such symbols on the packaging of laminate or parquet flooring, then be aware that this floor can be used with a heating system.

Sometimes a temperature icon can be seen on the symbol:

And this option means that the laminate can only be used with a water-heated floor system, not electric:

Installation

Installation of laminate, parquet, cork, PVC tiles and other types of flooring can be done in different ways, and therefore on product packaging you can find a variety of markings related to installation.

Fast styling:

Glue connection:

Lock connection:

Reusable use (bottom sticky layer, self-adhesive structures that do not require the use of glue):

Environmental friendliness

One of the most important conventions that can take on various symbols.

Environmental Compliance:

Biodegradable, recyclable:

Lack of harmful substances

Specifically, the formaldehyde emission class is as follows:

Certificates

Environmental Declaration:

European conformity mark (the product is harmless to the consumer and the environment):

Blue Angel (German environmental certificate):

Nordic swan (Scandinavian sustainability certificate):

PEFC ™ (certified environmentally friendly raw materials, wood):

Anti-slip coating

With these badges, the flooring is guaranteed non-slip, which means it is safe for use in homes where young children and the elderly live.

Moisture resistance

The moisture resistance marking means that the coating is suitable for installation in damp rooms, including bathrooms, toilets, kitchens, hallways.

But such a sign, on the contrary, shows the consumer that the coating is not moisture resistant:

Hypoallergenic

The marking means that the coating does not cause allergic reactions and can be used in homes where people with allergies live. The figure symbolically depicts a freely breathing nose.

Sound absorption

The marking informs the buyer that this floor covering is good at dampening shock and other noises. It can also mean the floor is absolutely quiet, "the quietest floor in the world".

Some manufacturers, such as BerryAlloc, further flesh out the notion of noiselessness by specifying the shoe on the floor, which means it won't emit annoying clattering sounds when walking on the laminate.

Some manufacturers concretize the noiselessness of the coating by the presence of a built-in substrate:

Thermal insulation

If the coating is characterized by increased thermal insulation, you will learn about it from similar conventions:

Lightfastness

If the floor covering is resistant to UV rays, does not fade, yellow or fade in the sun, then it is marked with the following icons:

Antistatic

Laminate or other flooring does not accumulate static electricity if the packaging has these signs:

Hygiene

With this or another similar symbol with the image of sticks, bacteria, crossed out bugs, the manufacturer informs the buyer about the antibacterialness of the coating, its hygiene, the absence of harmful insects, excluding the likelihood of their appearance on the coating in the future.

Service class

The specified class of operation of the laminate (class of wear resistance, load) informs the consumer in which rooms it can be laid (residential, commercial, industrial) and what loads it can be subjected to during operation without prejudice to its characteristics and appearance.

Abrasion class

The higher the number on the abrasion class, the more wear-resistant the coating is, especially its top layer.

And this is what the abrasion resistance looks like according to the manufacturer Kronostar:

And the wear resistance of the upper layer of the laminate in domestic use is indicated by the manufacturer Alloc as follows:

Other symbols of wear resistance:

Dimensions (edit)

Laminate thickness:

The format of the boards. Narrow slats:

Extra long strips:

Texture

Glossy:

A light weight

The marking informs about the light weight of the product, which can be useful if you do not want to overload the floors in the old house or you need to transport the boards to another place on your own.

About the structure of products

If there is natural stone in the composition of a laminate, cork floor or other floor covering, then you will see the corresponding icon on its packaging:

The presence of a chamfer

A chamfer on a laminate or other floor covering can be double-sided or four-sided with the appropriate symbols:

Strength

So that you don't have to worry about the strength of the coating, manufacturers mark products as follows:

Maintainability

There is nothing easier than repairing a floor covering if you find a similar badge on its packaging:

Coating care

It is no less important for a potential buyer and the time that he will subsequently have to spend on cleaning the floor covering, so manufacturers mark the laminate with the symbol of easy care:

And this is how the Pergo easy-care laminate flooring icon looks like:

Resistant to scratches and dents

If the coating does not deteriorate under the influence of rollers from office furniture, heels, animal claws, that is, it is resistant to scratches and dents, then it is marked as follows:

Resistant to stains and dirt

If spilled liquids do not harm the coating and do not leave stains or marks on it, you will learn about it from the characteristic symbol:

Resistant to cigarettes

All European laminate flooring is mandatory tested for resistance to the effects of smoldering cigarettes, receiving markings:

Fire resistance

If a laminate or other coating is difficult to ignite, then you will learn about it from these symbols:

Ease of walking

The coating has a shock-absorbing effect or is simply pleasant to the touch when walking barefoot:

Guarantee

Each manufacturer is obligated to indicate the life of the product on the packaging, providing a guarantee for the laminate, which can be lifelong if the symbol indicates LifeTime, but such a guarantee usually applies only to household use.

Laminate price

If, in the opinion of the manufacturer, his products have the best value for money, then you will see a symbol in the form of coins on it.

What do the icons on laminate packaging say?

Every savvy shopper knows that the secret to a really good buy is getting to grips with all the performance characteristics. And more reliable than any advice is to understand what the special pictogram icons on the laminate packaging say, because they provide complete information about all the key characteristics of the product.

Such markings are very diverse. However, there is a standard labeling system that includes a description of the main performance characteristics.

Wear resistance class indicator:

Perhaps the main indicator of the quality and durability of the laminate. The gradation of quality increases from class 31 to 33. The strongest and most reliable laminate - 33 classes, will retain their consumer properties for a long time even with the most intensive use.

Abrasion resistance of the laminate:

• AC3 - no more than 2000 movements of the abrasive roller (31),
• AC4 - no more than 4000 movements of the abrasive roller (32),
• AC5 - no more than 6000 movements of the abrasive roller (33).

The abrasion class is assigned using a test in which a piece of laminate board to be tested is exposed to two abrasive rollers. The condition of the coating is checked after every 100 times the roller spins, and every 200 times the sandpaper on the rollers is changed, that is, the conditions of long-term abrasion of the floor with the same object are simulated. The class is assigned the moment the roller fits the decorative print design.

Fire safety:

Flame or match icons tell about such important characteristics of the laminate as its fire rating, flammability or flammability level. The safest and most flammable coatings are designated A2-s1, B-s1, C-s1 or B1; the least safe are E-d2 or B2.

Examples of designation of additional operating parameters:

Laminate packaging often uses pictograms highlighting additional advantages in the characteristics of the flooring. The most commonly used indicators are:

Admissibility of laminate flooring in rooms with a "warm floor" system

Heat resistance. The sign with a smoking cigarette indicates the resistance of the protective laminate coating to high temperatures.

The overturned glass emphasizes the resistance of the laminate to stains and chemical attack - this means that the surface of the laminate is protected with varnish or a special solution.

This sign draws attention to the fact that the floor covering is hygienic and easy to clean.

Indicator of the resistance of the laminate to ultraviolet rays.

The sign indicates the increased resistance of the laminate to pressure, and as a result, to the formation of dents and scratches.

The lightning bolt symbol indicates the anti-static property of the coating. This means that the laminate does not allow static electricity to build up and attract the smallest dust particles.

The pictogram indicates that the surface of the laminate is hypoallergenic and is not a favorable environment for the development of various microorganisms.

Also, pictograms are often used, denoting the individual distinctive features of the laminate, highlighting e it among other collections with its additional, quality advantages:

These designations reflect a certain uniqueness of the size and shape of the laminate board:

Thus, additional features of the laminate are indicated in its quality and aesthetic indicators:

Quite a few people making repairs are concerned about the question of what the class of the laminate means if they are going to use this material as a final floor covering. Laminate, as a building material, has long won the hearts of many of our compatriots. Convenient, beautiful, with proper installation and use, it is also quite durable. This is probably why it is so often used in repairs for final finishing. But if the overwhelming majority of people no longer have problems with how to lay it, then with the value of the numbers that speak of a certain class of a given floor covering, many may still have difficulties in terms of: which marking is best to choose for a particular individual case, which is most suitable for home or office renovation, how many years as a result this material can last.

What does the class of laminate mean, and how can it be accurately identified by the numbers on the marking? We will talk about this and many other, no less interesting, in our next article.

Laminate construction and EN13329

What is EN13329? This European standard combines 18 performance tests that reveal certain characteristics of the material. As a result of passing this or that test, a certain class is assigned. It should be remembered that the laminate is a wood-fiber structure made up of 4 layers.

The bottom layer has stabilizing functions. It is designed to protect the laminate board from all kinds of mechanical stress and deformation, as a result. This layer also serves to increase the hardness of the coating. It can also perform soundproofing tasks if an anti-noise substrate is attached to it.

The second layer is carrier. It represents the backbone of the entire board. Performs all the most important functions of the flooring. Manufactured from fibreboard. A lock is also cut out in it, which serves to secure the segments to each other.

The carrier layer also performs thermal insulation functions. And its quality depends on how waterproof the material will be (for these purposes, appropriate impregnations are usually used). And the overall geometry of the structure will depend on the effect of moisture.

Further down the structure is the decorative layer. It consists of a special paper with a background (drawings) applied to it. Today, modern technologies make it possible to fulfill almost any client's wishes.

The last final coat consists of special acrylic resins. They establish high-quality protection of the coating from mechanical damage. In our years, this segment also has a decorating function. For example, if it is necessary to convey the structure of wooden coatings, irregularities are artificially applied to it for better imitation.
As already mentioned, as a result of testing, which, as a rule, concerns some layers and the structure as a whole, a certain class is assigned to the laminate:

• 21-23 - material intended for use in private buildings (production has already been discontinued);
• 31 (AC3) - for private use and in offices;
• 32 (AC4) - for private premises with a high load character, for commercial - with a low one;
• 33 (AC5-AC6) - for business projects with sufficiently large coverage loads;
• 34 - specialized use for commercial and sports purposes (withstands the highest loads).

By itself, such a classification is a rather relative concept. The numbers 31-34 tell the potential buyer how much load the wood-based panel - the basis of HDF - can withstand. And the AC indicators - tell about the wear resistance of the laminate (mainly its top layer intended for protection). The higher the AC value, the more stress the top layer can withstand. In the European version, both intended indicators are present, for example, Class 32 (AC5) means that its base is intended for domestic premises with an expected high load on the finishing layer (acrylic coating). The Chinese, on the other hand, do not always observe such marking, taking advantage of some confusion, and the inscriptions on the labels are not uncommon: Class 33. Accordingly, a laminate with the same classification from different manufacturers can last for different times under the same operating conditions, which also follows take into account.
In these types of laminate, European manufacturers initially had a small margin of safety. They belonged to "home" materials. Obviously, the initial idea of ​​the technologists was as follows: why in rooms where movement is minimal, increased durability of the floor covering. So, as planned: 21 - for bedrooms and storage rooms, 22 - for living rooms, 23 - for corridors and kitchens, for example. But the practice of exploitation indicated some oversights in such standards, and the classes with the first digit 2 were discontinued (and in the 2000s in Russia the 23rd class was one of the most popular). Studies have shown that everything rested on the most important layer, the base from which this modern coating was made. If the slab is made of cheap material, then it breaks down much earlier than the final coating. And when using higher quality boards (HDF type), the difference in the cost of "home" and "commercial" laminate is too insignificant.

Classes 31, 32, 33 and service life

Therefore, at this time, the division into products used in private houses and commercial is purely conditional. Nowadays they buy all three classes for the equipment of apartments, and for offices, and for industrial premises. But if the laminates during commercial use can withstand up to 3-6 years, then they can also last more than 10 at home (by the way, many of the terms stated on the labels relate specifically to home use)!

• The 31st class is used in commercial and industrial premises with an expected low load on the floor covering (up to 3 years). The same laminate can stay in the bedroom for 10 years without losing its qualities. Today this class is widely used in apartments and offices.
• 32nd speaks about average loads in production facilities. And at home, 15 can lie!
• 33rd for floors with intensive slab loads. And at home you can walk on it for 15-20 years.
• The 34th class is specialized for use in rooms with very intensive use. It is practically not used for home coatings.

Summary: Knowing what the laminate class means, you can more confidently choose it exactly for your situation. As a rule, the 32nd class is chosen en masse, which to some extent is the most universal of all. But one should also remember about the difference between manufacturers: it is better to take 32 laminate from a proven European company than, for example, the 33rd class of a Chinese one, despite even the difference in price.

remtra.ru

What does the markings on the laminate mean?

People who are far from construction business may experience difficulties when choosing certain building materials. But the market today is very diverse and offers customers a huge range of products. How to choose the right option and not be mistaken?

If you are looking for a beautiful, stylish and practical flooring, then you will definitely choose laminate flooring. He has long been in incredible demand from buyers. This demand is due to the fact that the material can quickly transform the interior - make it more modern and comfortable.

Choosing a laminate

When choosing, you should focus on indicators such as strength and wear resistance. It depends on them how long the coating will not lose its aesthetic data. There is laminate flooring for both household and commercial use.

Also, the material is always marked.

The service life is always drawn up in the form of a triangle or a circle in which a number is written. It means the maximum warranty period given by the manufacturer. There is a postscript to it, meaning in which type of premises it is allowed to use the coating.

Typically, the life of a commercial laminate floor does not exceed 6 years. If more is indicated, then this is nothing more than a regular marketing ploy.

The information displayed in the form of icons should also be taken into account. If a house with a triangular roof is drawn, then this is a household flooring option. If a multi-storey building is drawn, then the laminate is suitable for use in commercial premises. Little people - denote with what level of load the material can handle. The more they are drawn, the better.

Safe types of laminate are always marked with special icons, for example, E1.

Emission, laminate class

The safety index of the laminate is always indicated on the packaging of the material sold.

Emissions differ in the following classes:

• E0.5 is the minimum emission of formaldehyde into the air during operation at home. Such products are versatile in use. They can be laid in any premises and even in those in which people prone to various allergic reactions will live. The list of manufacturers who are engaged in the production of such products is extremely small.
• E1 also means that the coating is completely safe for human health and can be used as a coating even in children's rooms or medical institutions.

A high-quality laminate in terms of environmental friendliness can be compared with a parquet board or parquet. Today, many manufacturers are actively developing the use of the minimum concentration of formaldehyde. Perhaps, soon we will be able to see completely new products, which will have the E0 class.

A few words about sustainability

Natural wood is used in the production of laminate boards. Adhesive mixtures used in production are of synthetic origin or natural. The base of the finishing layer is melamine and acrylic resins. They are necessary to give products enhanced protection. All paints and varnishes containing acrylic resins are harmless to human health.

For many, the answer to the question is interesting - is the laminate, which contains formaldehyde, harmful? The answer is simple and concise - it is completely safe, because formaldehyde evaporates when exposed to high temperatures. Such a coating can be used safely, even in well-heated living areas.

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What does the class of laminate mean?

High-quality flooring is the key to the durability and attractiveness of any renovation. The most often chosen for residential or public premises is a high-quality and good laminate. In the selection process, it is important to pay attention to the strength class of the laminate, since in accordance with this parameter it is determined for which room a particular coating is suitable. Initially, it is important to figure out what the laminate class means, as well as which category is optimal for certain operating conditions.

Coating structure

Initially, it is important to understand what the design of each panel is. It is practically the same for different types of material, however, the thickness can be different. A material with a thickness of 12 mm is considered to be of high quality, which easily withstands significant loads and impacts. The quality of the laminate also depends on the thickness, therefore 12 mm thickness is usually found in the types above the 33 class laminate with a chamfer.

Waterproof or conventional material consists of the following layers:

• bottom - is a stabilizing layer that provides high strength and durability of the coating against various negative influences to which the waterproof material is exposed. Additionally, it can increase the soundproofing parameters of the panels;
• medium - is a special fibreboard that is formed under very high pressure, therefore it has a good density. This means that it performs a supporting function. It is she who perceives significant mechanical influences;
• decorative - usually created from paper on which a pattern or a certain color is applied. The most commonly used image is natural wood;
• upper - presented in the form of a melamine or acrylic film, which protects the entire material from various damages.

Any material has its own density and thickness, and the optimal thickness is 12 mm. When choosing, it is important to consider what room it is intended for, since the conditions in the room are important. For a room with high humidity, it is important to choose a waterproof coating.

Laminate boards
Sectional laminate structure

Class types

Laminate class can be different, and it is from this parameter that its main parameters depend. It is important to know how to choose the right coating so that it lasts a long time and also suits the existing operating conditions. Classes are represented by two numbers, which indicate the resistance of the material to various mechanical and physical factors. It is very difficult to say which class of laminate is better, since each has its own characteristics and purpose.

The first number indicates the type, and the second characterizes the wear resistance. Laminate material can be household, commercial, or specialty.

The second figure is significant because it characterizes the following material parameters:

• abrasion resistance;
• resistance to moisture, and waterproof material is considered the most optimal for the kitchen;
• pressure resistance level;
• resistance to high temperature or its surges;
• resistance to various mechanical influences, which include all kinds of impacts or scratches.

It is not difficult to choose the characteristics of the material if you understand well all the available varieties, as well as their specific features.

Laminated board class table

Home Panels

In another way, such material is called household. It includes only three types: 21, 22 and 23. In our country, it is very difficult to find such a coating, since it is characterized by low resistance to wear and the absence of other important parameters. There is no moisture-resistant household material, so exposure to water will be destructive for it.

The service life of such a material is considered small, so it is rarely chosen. The period of operation of 21 types of panels does not exceed two years, which may indicate the need after this time to re-carry out repair work associated with replacing the floor. It is allowed to lay it in a closet, where the impact on the floor is minimal. The rest of the types can be used in a residential area, but still will not last too long.

Another type of material is commercial. This includes class 31 laminate, 32 class laminate, 33 class laminate and 34 class laminate. They are considered affordable and high quality. It is allowed to lay such classes not only in residential premises, but even in public buildings. However, if you lay even a 34th grade laminate in an office with a high level of traffic, then there is a high probability that the coating will not last more than 4 years.

The characteristics of the 33 class laminate are high and optimal. The most popular is the waterproof material. The coating easily withstands various mechanical influences, and it is also difficult to put a scratch on it.

Specialized numbers 41, 42 and 43 should be singled out separately. Their thickness is usually 12 mm or more. The flooring of them can withstand the harshest and even aggressive operating conditions, which are detrimental to the lower rooms.

Material classes

21, 22, 23

These coatings were popular about 20 years ago, but now it is almost impossible to find them on the market. The cessation of production of this material is due to its low operating parameters and short service life. The following types were previously distinguished:

• 21 - the planks were very low thickness, so before choosing them, it is important to think about what loads will affect the coating. The most optimal is to use it in the pantry, where people go very rarely. Service life does not exceed two years;
• 22 - when choosing a laminate for a bedroom, people often prefer to choose this type. However, this is optimal only if the room is used exclusively for sleeping, since even slight mechanical loads can become the basis for the destruction of the floor in a short period of time;
• 23 - is considered a household material with an increased strength index. It can be used for a living room or a children's room, but its maximum service life reaches 6 years.

There are few companies that produce a household look, since the commercial one is in greater demand, and it is used not only for various public premises, but also for living rooms.

31, 32, 33, 34

Commercial is presented in the following varieties:

• laminate class 31 - represented by a thin board, the thickness of which varies from 6 to 10 mm. Class 31 laminate lasts no more than 5 years. It is considered an excellent solution for premises with a low passability rate. Laminate class 31 has a reasonable price, therefore it is in demand among a large number of potential buyers;
• laminate class 32 - has an average thickness that varies from 9 to 10 mm. Class 32 laminate sizes are standard. It is considered the most popular in Russia. It can be used in different living quarters, and the most commonly available material is moisture resistant. Therefore, class 32 laminate is allowed to be laid in the kitchen, where there is a high probability of water getting on the floor. It can even be used in an office, however, in rooms with a low traffic rate, and this includes storage rooms or rest rooms. Class 32 laminate flooring under optimal conditions can last more than 15 years. It is available in a large number of colors, which allows you to choose the best option. Class 32 laminate is considered affordable, therefore it is available to every buyer. The most demanded types of laminate with a beveled class 32;
• laminate class 33 - this waterproof material has a thickness of 10 to 12 mm. Laminate class 33 can be used in various commercial or office premises, in which there is a significant mechanical effect on the floor. This class of laminate for the kitchen is considered the best choice. It is produced in different shades, with 33 class Oak being considered the most demanded. Class 33 laminate can be installed even on the balcony or in the bathroom. The service life varies from 15 to 20 years. Choose from 33 grade beveled laminate flooring for an unrivaled appearance. The 33 class laminate has excellent characteristics;
• laminate class 34 - has improved characteristics. Available in class 34 laminate with or without bevel. Withstands even significant loads, and can also be used in a gym, walk-through hall or in industrial buildings. Laminate class 34 has a high price, therefore it is rarely chosen for residential premises. The lock, which all the strips are equipped with, is of high quality and reliability.

Laminate class 31, 32, 33

41, 42, 43

They are elite materials. Laminate class 43 is uncommon, like other types of this group. As a rule, they are made on special orders, and their cost is very high. Laminate class 43 serves more than 25 years, and can also withstand significant loads and impacts. For example, 42 types of material are laid at Sheremetyevo.

Laminate class 43 is produced only by some foreign companies, and supplies to Russia are small.

Which class is better

Classification of the laminate into classes allows you to decide in advance, before purchasing a specific coating, what parameters it will have. How to choose the best material? To do this, you can use the following recommendations:

• 21 or 23 types are suitable only for rooms with a low traffic rate, so they can be laid in a closet or bedroom;
• if you need to finish the corridor or kitchen, then the 31st class laminate is perfect for these purposes, and you can choose different floor colors for this;
• for a children's room in which children are constantly running, as well as various objects and toys fall on the floor, a durable laminate of the 32nd grade is suitable;
• if a coating is chosen for the kitchen, then it must be resistant to moisture;
• class 32 laminate is suitable for finishing industrial or commercial premises, but repairs will have to be carried out every 7 years;
• When choosing a coating, its thickness is taken into account, and the thickness of the 33 class 8 mm laminate is suitable for almost every living room, as well as for many public spaces.

Thus, it is almost impossible to say exactly which material is the best and highest quality. For this, it is important to take into account the existing operating conditions. The most commonly used for various residential or public spaces is the 32nd class laminate.

Laminate class table

What do the icons on the packaging mean?

In the process of choosing a material, it is important to study its packaging, on which the manufacturer leaves a lot of information for the buyer. Particular attention is paid to the marking icons. Their main types include:

• the service life of the material is indicated on the packaging without fail. Most often, the number is enclosed in a circle or rectangle;
• the figure characterizes the class;
• one person indicates a low resistance of the coating to loads, and two or three to a higher given indicator. A building is always drawn next to the little men, by which you can determine for which room the material is intended. A building with a triangular roof means a residential building, a rectangular high-rise building means a public building, a building with a pipe means a production area;
• the drop icon, indicating the resistance of the coating to moisture, is available on waterproof materials;
• a rag or mop shows the ease of cleaning, this means that the coating will not require additional special care;
• a zigzag pipe indicates the possibility of laying on a floor heating system;
• a falling ball indicates how susceptible the material is to various kinds of impacts and loads. If there is an icon for shoes with heels, then the material will withstand this type of load;
• fire safety will be indicated by the flame or matches icon;
• if the package has an icon of a non-extinguished cigarette, then this type of material will be able to transfer without consequences if a similar object hits it. This is possible thanks to the special melamine polymers used in the production;
• a pictogram with a lightning bolt indicates an antistatic property, which is very important, because many coatings, not only artificial, but often natural, are capable of accumulating static electricity, which attracts dust and negatively affects human health;
• an overturned glass indicates the tolerance of various types of stains. Thanks to a special coating, the material will not be damaged by accidentally spilled liquid on it, but only if it is removed as soon as possible;
• if the package has a sun icon, then you do not have to worry that the coating will fade in the sun over time, as is often the case with many low-quality materials.

Laminate service life mark
Laminate markings

Thus, when choosing a coating, it is important to pay attention to its basic parameters and marking. The dimensions of the 33 class laminate, like other types of material, may be different, therefore this parameter is also taken into account during the selection. With a competent approach to the choice, a durable and resistant to various factors of the floor covering is guaranteed. Now you know the basics of choosing a laminate class and this procedure will not be an obstacle to repairing.

Video about laminate classes and how to define them

The form shows testing of different types of laminate boards, which will allow you to choose a really high-quality material.

www.climatechange.ru

Laminate conventions

Legend for laminate flooring.

Almost all manufacturers of laminate flooring with the help of symbols concisely convey all the important information about their product, knowledge of which is necessary both when laying laminate floors and during their further operation. Most manufacturers use symbols to designate the same (or similar) product characteristics, for example, laminate class, warranty, antistatic, wear resistance, etc.

What manufacturers report on the packaging.

1.Service life, operation of the laminate.

Most often, the warranty indicated by manufacturers refers to the use of laminate flooring in residential premises.

But some manufacturers also indicate the life of the laminate in commercial premises.

2. The type of premises must be indicated on the packaging. where the laminate can be laid: in a residential (house-shaped icon) premises, in a public (building-shaped icon) or in a production facility (factory picture). The degree of permissible load is also indicated - the image of one person indicates a light load, two people - about an average load, three - about the fact that the laminate can withstand an intense load, four people - the laminate can be laid in rooms with a very high load. Symbols can be like this

3.Quality characteristics.

Also, the manufacturer briefly reports on the quality features of its products.

1) Wear resistance, resistance to hairpins, hard shoes, furniture wheels and casters, animal claws.

2) Thickness of the entire laminate panel or core board. The thicker the laminate plank, the stronger the flooring and the more stress it can withstand.

3) Impact resistance, resistance to constant pressure.

4) Resistant to ultraviolet radiation, light.

5) Resistant to stains and chemicals.

6) Resistance of the surface to the ash of burning cigarettes.

8) Fire-technical characteristics or fire safety class, low flammability, flammability.

9) Compliance with environmental standards, use of safe materials.

10) The level of content or emission (evaporation) of formaldehyde. Such badges are additional evidence of the environmental safety of the laminate. 11) Hygiene, easy care and cleaning.

12) Laminate flooring with these or similar marks can be cleaned with scrubber driers.

13) Antibacterial surface, coated with silver ions. Laminate with such a surface is suitable for families with children, does not cause allergies. 14) Anti-static surface.

17) Comfortable legs, improved ergonomics. With the help of such conventions, the manufacturer announces that his product is distinguished by increased comfort and convenience for the legs.

18) Improved noise absorption.

19) Built-in backing. Some manufacturers initially equip the laminate with a backing, most often sound-absorbing.

4.Feature and type of surface.

1.The manufacturer can inform about the presence of a reinforced protective layer with the following signs:

2. Imitation of the natural structure of the surface, the effect of a natural wood floor, authentic surface (Authentic - authentic, i.e. corresponding to the authentic).

3. Especially shiny surface (diamond, brilliant), chrome-plated surface effect.

6.Various embossing options:

Embossing in register (embossing repeats the pattern of the tree)

High gloss embossing (light gloss enhances the beauty of natural fibers)

Register embossing combined with hand-worked effect (relief structure)

7.Rustic (rough, rough) surface.

10. Imitation of the structure of natural stone or tiles.

11. Waxing the edges of panels and locks for extra moisture protection.

12. The presence of a chamfer (2 or 4 sides), the degree of its depth. Optical bevel effect.

Very narrow board | Wide panel | Extra long board | Square panel

14. The effect of the endless board. Thanks to this effect, the feeling of a single space is created, without joints and transitions.

Glueless laminate has two main types of lock connections - Lock (snap lock) and Click (collapsible system). Many well-known manufacturers develop proprietary unique connections based on a Lock or Click lock, and are proud of them. Click-lock is considered more convenient and perfect, Lock-system is considered more economical.

16. Optional accessories. The manufacturer says that in addition to the main product (laminate), it offers a wide range of accessories, incl. skirting boards, floor profiles, coating care products, installation tools, etc.

http://pro-poly.ru