Laminated panels have long become a favorite floor covering for those who value environmental friendliness, quality and comfort. The laminate fully meets these criteria, representing high quality decorative flooring. However, to achieve the maximum aesthetic effect, when installing lamellas, all possible aspects should be taken into account, without which it will not be possible to create a truly high-quality and functional coating.

One of the most important additional components of the laminate is the threshold, which provides masking of unsightly joints in transitions between different coatings . As a rule, manufacturers produce thresholds that are easy to install, beautiful and durable.

What are the thresholds?

Installation of thresholds – final stage in laying lamellas. All canvases are already ready for use and you can safely select suitable thresholds. First you need to determine what material the thresholds for the laminate will be made of.

Modern manufacturers used in production metals (steel, aluminum, brass), wood, plastic raw materials, cork and the material itself, which was also used in the manufacture of laminate. Are different different models thresholds cost And performance qualities. Let's take a closer look at what types of thresholds for laminate flooring are available on the modern market.

Hardware are made in different color shades. The advantages of such thresholds include the undoubted strength(the highest compared to analogues from other materials), affordability, practicality and long service life. It is recommended to use such thresholds in high-traffic areas, since other material may not withstand the loads.

The only disadvantages of metal thresholds include: low decorative qualities. Still, natural wood looks more advantageous in terms of aesthetic qualities. And yet metal thresholds can be selected under door handles, fittings, chandeliers and other decorative objects interior design.

Wooden thresholds fit most organically into laminated fabric, however, their the cost is higher than the prices for metal specimens. Wood – environmentally friendly and natural material. Its disadvantages include a short service life. In some cases, they are additionally sanded and coated with varnish compounds.

Cork thresholds for laminate are used in cases where it is required close the transition zone from the lamellas to the stone covering. Due to their high flexibility, such products take on the load from the laminate and at the same time provide decoration to the joint.

Aesthetic plastic thresholds for panels are considered the cheapest. Their dignity lies in large selection color shades. Plastic models do an excellent job of their function, providing both a binding and a decorative function. However, The quality of the plastic threshold corresponds to the cost. The durability of such models is a rather relative concept.

Threshold models made of laminated elements fit harmoniously into the decor of any room, while there is possibility of selecting a specific series that is optimal for the color of the floor- for example, parquet floorers usually take threshold models from the same series of laminated panels, but such products are not resistant to water and physical damage.

The choice of material should be made based on docking location. For example, for fastening tiles and laminated coating it is necessary to choose thresholds that are resistant to water - that is, made of metal or plastic. If required eliminate certain elevation differences– then it is advisable to opt for a cork threshold.

Another classification also applies to thresholds for laminate flooring - according to form and purpose:

They have their own classification and multi-level thresholds for laminate flooring, which are produced in the following standard sizes:

Unusual combinations of different materials are often found in the kitchen, because this particular area has a tiled surface, and the floor of the dining room is usually covered with laminated panels. Through flexible thresholds for laminate flooring masters docking places near niches are also often decorated, arched structures and columns. Such thresholds for laminate are made from cork or based on hypoallergenic types of plastic, and are produced in rolls. They are easy to transport and stack.

Installing thresholds for laminate flooring

There are quite a lot of installation methods and they all depend on the specific mechanism that is provided in the product.

Open installation

Factory equipment is already in use special niches were made for fasteners. To attach such thresholds to the laminate, you only need put the threshold to the floor, mark and make the necessary holes.

Then It is necessary to drive a plug into the created holes into which self-tapping screws are screwed.. They will create a reliable fixation to the floor, which will ensure the stability of the threshold.

Next you should do proper preparation rough base, namely in the threshold area remove the backing and insert a panel of plywood or plastic. This will protect against loosening of the screws and plugs in the base.

This fixation technique has many advantages, including the low cost of the thresholds and ease of installation. But it was not without its drawbacks. As a rule, they come down to unreliability of holes, which break over time and cease to perform a fixing function.

Beautiful and comfortable laminate flooring is becoming increasingly popular. It is durable and does not require much effort in installation, except for the design of joints with other materials. Thresholds for laminate flooring between rooms allow

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Connect two different coatings, compensate for a slight difference in height and aesthetically design the transition.

Types of thresholds

This or that type of threshold is selected depending on the quality of the material, combination with the interior and the shape of the connecting seam. The price category is no less important and must correspond to the quality of the product. Thresholds for laminate flooring are divided into several types regarding their functional application:

• Straight, which are ideal for single-level joints of linoleum or tiles with laminate. These could be connections between rooms or between different zones;
• Transitional, connecting materials of different levels, permissible from 3 to 20 mm. Often this connection is used to combine laminate flooring with carpet, linoleum or tile;
• Final ones, used to close the edge of one of the materials, for example, at thresholds, at the entrance to a balcony or on a podium element;
• Leveling, which are the most popular, as they hide a small difference in levels, from 3 to 5 mm.

Separately, it is worth mentioning transitional structures. They are further divided into several types. The most popular are corner thresholds, which can be used for different combinations of coatings: a threshold for laminate between rooms, laminate with tiles or linoleum. Another type is round, also used for several types of multi-level materials. The difference in height is allowed from 10 to 20 mm. The most popular are flexible thresholds complex shape. They resist water flow inside well. They mask joints near niches and arches, between rooms or different areas of the room.

Flexible designs

Curved or curved seams can be formed using flexible thresholds. They can also hide the threshold between tiles and laminate or linoleum by 10-15 mm. A flexible threshold is an indispensable element for the decorative design of joints, which are often found in the kitchen, when work area completed in tiles, and the dining room is in laminate. The basis for the production of flexible thresholds is plastic or rubber.

Laying is done during installation flooring. To do this, as shown in the video, they are cut in accordance with the geometry of the joint, installed in place and heated using a hair dryer to create the desired shape. In this case, the bending radius in the cold form is 30 cm, and when heated - 60 cm.

After these actions, the threshold completely fills the gap space - the threshold between the laminate and linoleum. The profile of flexible thresholds with hidden fastening consists of two parts. One is in contact with the subfloor and is equipped with a special groove, the other is a decorative strip, which, after heating, is inserted into the first part of the threshold. After cooling, the joint becomes more rigid and reliable.

Installation method

Thresholds can be fixed in two ways - open and hidden. The latter is most preferable, since the fastening elements are invisible, which improves the aesthetic appearance of the floor covering. The design consists of two profiles - working and decorative. The difference is in the metal thresholds, the design of which does not have a lower profile.

An open fastening looks less aesthetically pleasing, since the fastening components are mounted through the end-to-end method, when self-tapping screws are inserted through the decorative layer. To secure the threshold open method They mark the holes, which are then drilled. But before this, it is necessary to prepare the base: remove the foam gasket and lay down hard plastic or plywood, which will protect the screws and plugs inserted into the holes from loosening. Of course, this method is cheaper and simpler, but appearance the threshold is not the best. In addition, the holes will begin to collapse over time and the threshold will no longer stay in place.

Hidden way

The advantage of hidden fastening thresholds, as can be seen in the photo, is their appearance, since the fastening elements are hidden. In this case, the distance between the fasteners is essentially unimportant, the main thing is that they are located on the same pre-drawn line. The steps are very simple - holes are drilled along the marked line into which the plugs are inserted.

We load dowels into the trimmed sill (there is a special groove at the end of the sill) and combine them with the already installed plugs. Using a hammer and a wooden point, we hammer the threshold evenly inward, since the threshold may bend. Another method of hidden mounting is a threshold with a latch. It is much simpler than the method described above. Simply lay down the snap strip and then install the decorative element.

Gusset

For tiles and laminate, there is a connection method using corner thresholds, when it becomes necessary to form a multi-level seam in the form of a step approximately 50 mm high. Such a threshold is usually installed along the edge of the tile, which creates some installation problems, since the tile is fragile material. A hammer drill or hammer can damage its edge. It is better to install the corner threshold by gluing it to liquid nails or silicone.

The nuances of choosing a sill include color, texture and material. For example, wide sills look better in door frame the same dimensions. The tone of the threshold must match the color of the laminate, linoleum or tile, depending on what materials are to be joined. It is also important that the threshold does not create obstacles when walking.

If all recommendations are followed, a threshold of the correct texture and color will perfectly emphasize the design of the floor, giving it a finished look, and will also protect the joint of the floor coverings from moisture and dirt, thereby extending the service life of the materials being joined.

First of all, the threshold is the face of your home; guests who come to your home and you yourself step over it every day. It is very important which thresholds, trims and profiles will be used in your house or apartment. Not only the appearance of your interior depends on this, but also how much they will get in the way under your feet, and whether you will stumble over them.

Nowadays, when renovating their homes, most builders, during installation, suggest that the owners of the house lay the flooring without a single joint. This method of installation is labor-intensive, but the interior of the floor looks like one single canvas, the interior thresholds are not noticeable and do not get in the way. Laying flooring without a single joint is safe if you use linoleum, ceramic tiles or carpet as the covering material, but if you are laying laminate or parquet board, then it is simply necessary to leave a technological gap between rooms. The thing is that wood coatings have the ability to expand due to changes in humidity and temperature. Therefore, if you do not make a technological gap between the rooms, then there is a possibility that with high air humidity, your floor will swell with one large bubble. And this bubble, like a sore on the body, will constantly remind itself, swell and disappear. Don’t tempt fate, create technological gaps between rooms when using wood coverings.

Types and types of interior floor thresholds

OVERLAYED FLOOR THRESHOLDS

Basically, all thresholds that are used for floors are overhead. With rare exceptions, craftsmen use tile thresholds that are embedded in tile adhesive. Most often, the overlay threshold is a plate, corner or T-shaped profile made of metal: aluminum, brass, bronze, stainless steel, titanium, copper or plastic. Such profiles perform the function of joint-bridging thresholds, that is, they close the gap, for example: between ceramic tiles and laminate, linoleum and carpet, and so on. The sill is called an overlay because it is applied to the joint of floor coverings in order to hide an unsightly seam.

SINGLE LEVEL or FLAT THRESHOLDS

Usually have a plate shape, but there are “Z” and “T” - about different shapes, such profiles are used exclusively with tile coverings. Thresholds are designed to cover the joints of floor coverings at the same level and, as a rule, a difference of one or more millimeters is critical for them. Therefore, before buying a threshold, it is important to make sure that the coatings are located strictly on one. If there is a vertical difference in height at the junction of one and the other coating of one millimeter or more, then you need a multi-level threshold.

MULTI-LEVEL, THRESHOLDS WITH A DIFFERENCE OR TWO-LEVEL

Any flat thresholds can easily be classified as transitional thresholds, because they connect one floor covering to another, for example, they serve to transition from tiles to laminate. But most often, the word transition threshold means a profile that serves to hide the joint between floor coverings located on at different levels. That is, the threshold is designed to hide the height difference. Such thresholds hide a slight difference from 3 to 15 millimeters. They are semicircular in shape or have the appearance of an unfolded angle.

CORNERS FOR WALLS OR THRESHOLDS ON L-SHAPED STAGES

Many who have at least once encountered finishing steps have had the question of how and with what to finish external corner steps. Nowadays, there are different profiles for such purposes, but the most reliable and time-tested is the aluminum overhead threshold. Firstly, it comes in different sizes, the smallest is 10x10 mm, and the largest is 50x50 mm. Secondly, the edges of such corners can be of different widths, for example, 10x25 or 15x35. Thirdly, the corners on the steps can have any color, from classic anodized, silver, gold and bronze, to imitation of any color of wood. Wooden metal thresholds come in two types, laminated and painted, we will talk about them later. Such a variety of colors allows you to choose the threshold to match the steps or, on the contrary, to highlight it. Most corners for steps have a corrugated or, as it is also called, perforated surface, which provides anti-slip properties. The textured surface of the thresholds gives better grip on the sole of the shoe and, accordingly, better stability, especially in damp rooms or on wet steps. For wet rooms, such as a bathroom, a swimming pool or on a street threshold, where there is a risk of slipping on the steps if there is ice, thresholds with a rubber insert are used. Rubber has good anti-slip properties, which provides high stability even when walking barefoot. Stair thresholds are made of a durable alloy of aluminum, brass, bronze, and less often of plastic. They are resistant to heavy shoes, heels, sand, temperature differences and are absolutely not afraid of exposure to snow and water.

Threshold with anti-slip notches

These are floor profiles made of metal or plastic, but with small marks, grooves or relief on their surface. Such recesses on the threshold are made as anti-slip ones for the stability of a person in case he steps on them, less often for decorative purposes. On profiles intended for steps, perforation is required to prevent slipping.

METAL THRESHOLDS

The most common material from which floor thresholds are made is metal. The following raw materials are used for manufacturing: aluminum, brass, steel, stainless steel, and less often bronze. Metal for the thresholds was chosen for a reason, because the threshold, like the entire floor, is subject to a very high load, and given that it protrudes several millimeters above the floor level, it is more susceptible to mechanical stress than the entire surface of the floor covering. Thresholds are also located between rooms that delimit two zones, for example, a room and a corridor; the profiles for connecting the coverings are called “interior thresholds”; such places are more passable, and therefore more susceptible to deformation. Metal as a material for making thresholds is the most versatile.

All metals used as profiles for thresholds or steps can be used not only indoors, but also outdoors. Aluminum, brass, bronze are resistant metals to both mechanical and natural stress. These are materials that are difficult to oxidize, which means they will not rust or fall apart underfoot.

- Aluminum thresholds

Aluminum thresholds are not made from pure aluminum; they are a durable alloy of various metals, in large quantities aluminum is present. Thresholds made from this material are very light and durable. The profile shape that can be given to aluminum can be any. These profiles are more often found on sale than others, because their price is low and their service life is unlimited.

- Brass thresholds

These are durable metal thresholds in a bright gold color. Brass is an expensive, valuable, non-ferrous metal, but is several times cheaper than gold. A beautiful bright yellow metallic luster is often used to facing finishing premises, because it imitates gold well. Nowadays, brass materials are used everywhere; many building materials, for example, terminals for electrical wires, plumbing products, since this metal is difficult to oxidize and is resistant to water, for the manufacture of stair railings and for others.

Gold has always been a luxury item; people made expensive items from this metal, which over the years became antiques. Gold has always been unavailable expensive material, from which jewelry was made and continues to be made. Only kings and leaders could afford to use gold as frames for mirrors, paintings, chandeliers, railings and staircases. Now, as an alternative to gold, brass is used for interior decoration. This metal exactly copies gold, but is much cheaper in price.

- Steel thresholds

These are metal thresholds that are resistant to any mechanical stress. IN pure form It is impossible to find them on sale; they are always painted or anodized. The advantages of a steel profile are its stability and strength, the disadvantages are that they rust.

- Bronze thresholds

Such thresholds are not found on the open market, and not everyone can afford them, because they are made to order, since bronze is an expensive metal. But you can easily buy bronze thresholds, although they themselves will be made of aluminum.

- Stainless steel thresholds

Stainless steel thresholds have a silver color with a matte or glossy finish. Their thickness is very different from aluminum or brass thresholds, it is thinner, and this is quite justified, because stainless steel is much stronger than aluminum or brass. Stainless steel profiles can be used both for floors and for finishing furniture or walls. If you have a warehouse where you need to use only durable materials, then stainless steel profiles will be the ideal solution for you. Also, I would like to note that these thresholds can be used in rooms, even where there is high humidity, they do not rust, do not oxidize, and do not peel off even with constant humidity. Their use is ideal for rooms such as: bathroom, bathhouse, shower, swimming pool, damp basement and others where there is a lot of water or humid air. Such thresholds do not require maintenance, they do not need to be rubbed to make them shine, their radiance and metallic luster will remain throughout their entire service life. The only disadvantage of these profiles is that they are produced only in silver color.

Coating of metal thresholds

Metal thresholds are always coated; there are exceptions when the customer requires raw thresholds, that is, their surface is not treated in any way. Not covered with any profile, they look like ordinary shiny silver metal. Basically, only two types of metal profiles are coated, made of steel and aluminum; very rarely you can find brass thresholds, anodized in a silver color, shiny like a mirror. Brass thresholds are usually not covered with anything, because the natural color of brass is gold, they already look beautiful, and there is absolutely no point in covering them.

There are several ways to treat the surface of profiles, the most popular is anodizing, then lamination, and less often, painted thresholds are found, and very rarely, polished or ground.

- Anodized

This is a complex method of painting using transmission. electric current through water with tiny particles of coloring matter in which the threshold is located. Most often, thresholds are anodized in three colors: gold, bronze and silver.

- Laminated

The basis of the laminated profile is also aluminum or other metal, only it is covered with durable self-adhesive film, which can simulate natural wood, stone or other natural materials.

- Painted

The basis of painted thresholds can be an aluminum or steel profile, which is coated with plain paint or with imitation wood.

- Sanded

This processing method is usually used for stainless steel profiles, less often for aluminum. After such processing, the profile acquires a matte surface, because it has many small notches similar to scratches, which gives it an attractive appearance.

- Polished

This processing method is applied to any metal, therefore, polished thresholds made of brass, stainless steel, bronze, aluminum and so on are on sale. The surface of the polished profile is absolutely smooth, and its appearance resembles a mirror with its bright shine.

- Chrome plated

Many metals are chrome-plated, but in the case of thresholds, only brass is coated with this coating. The chrome-plated profiles are very scratch-resistant and also highly resistant to corrosion. The coating is polished to such a state that you can see your own reflection in its mirror surface.

Often, when starting a search for floor thresholds, people cannot figure out which threshold is needed and run to the store for detailed advice. This is the right decision, but modern technologies allow you to solve this issue without leaving your home. Why spend so much time looking for a part that costs a penny compared to the total cost of repairs, because there is an online store called Pro-Click that will tell you and explain what you need. The specialists of our company know everything about the most modern profiles and thresholds; we specialize in this and constantly improve our skills in this area. If you have studied the entire site and still do not understand what you need, call or email and ask your questions, we will answer them! There is no need to waste a lot of time running around stores looking for the desired profile; with us you will find any solution for your home, office, store, warehouse, and so on.

THRESHOLDS FOR LAMINATE

With the advent of a variety of floor coverings, the need arose to hide the joints between them; thresholds help us out with this. In order for the joint to look neat and not stand out against the background of the general floor, you should take the choice of the desired profile seriously. To create a barely noticeable joint, consider purchasing the necessary threshold well in advance of purchasing flooring, since most of us face this problem after the floor is laid.

Thresholds for laminate flooring or transition to other coatings are used single-level, multi-level, and in the case of finishing stair steps, corner ones. To ensure that the profile is masked as much as possible in the color of the coating, use laminated or painted thresholds. Their coating exactly imitates wood or stone, which allows you to choose the profile exactly to match the color of the laminate. Using a profile that follows the pattern of the laminate, you are guaranteed to make a completely invisible joint.

When connecting two materials that are different in texture and texture, it is necessary to somehow design the place where they are connected. In this article we will discuss how to beautifully join laminate and tiles. The methods are different, as are the results.

Where could there be a joint and how best to design it?

IN modern house or apartment, different floor coverings are used. At the points of their connection, height differences often form due to different thicknesses of the coating. You can make such a transition beautifully and reliably only by knowing what and how to do. Most often you have to join tiles and laminate. These are the two most popular types of indoor flooring for various purposes. The joint between tiles and laminate occurs in two places:

As you already understand, there are two ways to make a joint between laminate and tiles - with and without a threshold. The first one requires high quality trimming the tiles, creating an equal gap between the two materials throughout the seam. Only in this case does it work decent result. The second one is simpler to perform and does not require special precision when cutting material or special skills when performing it. But it looks a little rough.

Methods of docking without a threshold

When joining tiles and laminate flooring without a threshold, you first need to solve the problem of height difference: due to the adhesive layer, the tile can be higher. Only after this can you start working. Also, the joint will look good if it is carefully processed, the gap will be even.

If two different materials are joined - ceramics and laminate - they cannot be placed close to each other without a gap. When temperature or humidity changes, they can increase in size (laminate suffers more from this). The presence of a gap prevents the problem - it allows it to change in size without compromising the integrity of the coating. When joining laminate and tiles without a threshold, this gap is filled with a suitable elastic material.

Whatever material is used for compaction, the edge of the laminate adjacent to it must be treated protective composition, which prevents moisture absorption. Most often, a sealant is used for this. Better is silicone, which, after drying, does not lose elasticity and does not turn yellow over time.

Cork compensator

A cork expansion joint can be placed between the tiles and the laminate. This is a thin strip of cork, which is painted on one side and covered with a layer of protective varnish or finished with a layer of veneer. The second option has a larger wood surface; you can choose a color that is very similar to your floor covering. But it is used more often for joining parquet floors - it costs a lot.

Dimensions

In addition to the fact that the “face” of the cork expansion joint is finished different materials, it can be of different shapes: with a chamfer different types or without. In addition, sizes may vary:

A standard length cork expansion joint is only good if the joint is under the door. Then its length is sufficient. In other situations, you either have to splice or order.

Installation

Install a cork expansion joint at the junction of tiles and laminate when laying the flooring. When one type has already been laid, and the second will only be laid. First of all, if it is necessary to trim the height of the cork, it is not always possible to choose the ideal option. Therefore, carefully sharp knife cut off the excess.

More preparatory work - finishing the laid edge. We remind you once again that it must be smooth and well processed. Most often, the edge is sanded with sandpaper, smoothing out the cutting marks.

The cork expansion joint is mounted using glue, preferably for wood. The installation site is thoroughly cleaned and degreased beforehand. The following is the process:

If everything is done correctly, you get a neat, unobtrusive seam. What’s good is that you can design both straight and curved joints this way.

Grout for joints

If the materials have already been laid, the joint between the laminate and tiles can either be formed with a threshold or filled with tile grout. We'll talk about thresholds later, but now let's discuss how to use grout.

The edges of the laminate must be coated with silicone. It can also fill the joint by about 2/3. When the silicone dries, fill the remaining space with diluted joint grout, level it and wait until it dries.

A simple and effective way. But only if the edges are processed with high quality. For greater color stability and easier maintenance, it is better to coat the seam with colorless varnish.

Cork sealant

You can also seal the joint between laminate and tile using cork sealant. It itself is a sealant, so this is the only option in which the cut of the laminate does not need to be protected from moisture. Another plus is that the dried composition has the color of cork wood - light brown. If it suits you, you won't have to worry about painting it.

Cork sealant is a mixture of crushed cork tree bark and a binder. water based. Without dyes, after drying it has the color of cork - light brown. There are palettes painted in primary colors. Available in polyethylene tubes, can be applied using a gun closed type(with container) or spatula. Can be used to fill joints in floor coverings.

When using this composition, you will most likely have to use a spatula. Therefore, we stick masking tape on both sides of the seam. We clean the seam itself and remove dust. You can work at temperatures above +5°C.

It’s easy to seal the joint between tile and laminate with cork sealant:

After drying, we have a ready-to-use joint between tile and laminate. The only drawback is that the base color does not suit everyone. And one more thing - you need to carefully and evenly distribute it immediately after application. Then it will not be possible to align or correct it.

Using thresholds

Making a joint between laminate and tile using thresholds makes sense in three cases. The first is when the joint is made under the door. In this case, the presence of a threshold is logical and “does not hurt the eyes.” The second option is if there is a difference in height between the two materials being joined. There is simply no other way out.

And the third case. When the hallway has tiles next to it, and then there is laminate. Even if their levels coincide, it is better to put a threshold here. It rises slightly above the finish and will trap sand and debris that inevitably gets carried in by shoes. This is the option when you can close your eyes to some aesthetic imperfection.

Types of thresholds for joining materials

There are the following thresholds that can be used to close the joint between laminate and tiles:

It just seems like there are few options. There are all these thresholds in different sizes and flowers, with various systems fixation. There are a lot of them in big stores.

Installation of flexible PVC profile

As already mentioned, a flexible PVC joining profile consists of a base and a decorative lining, which is held on it due to elastic force. It must be installed after the tiles have been laid, but before installing the laminate.

First, a base is installed along the cut of the laid tile. It is attached to dowels or self-tapping screws. Choose fasteners with flat heads so that when screwed in, they hardly protrude and do not interfere with installing the trim.

The installation process is as follows:

Using flexible PVC profile The joint between laminate and tile is easy to seal. Outwardly, of course, not everyone likes it, but the installation is simple.

Video on installing thresholds at the junction of laminate and tiles/porcelain tiles

Modern living spaces are different original design, which suggests quite unusual combination flooring materials with different structures and textures. One of the favorite techniques of designers is to combine laminate and tiles. This is probably best option zoning of living space.

When installing finishing coating flooring, there is often a need to join laminate and tiles. But no matter how hard you try, when uncovered, the joint is a gap with sharply defined boundaries, which does not look good on the new floor at all. To effectively hide it, special joining elements were invented - the so-called thresholds for laminate and tiles. Most often they are used when both flooring materials are laid in the same plane or the height difference is minimal - no more than 1 cm.

Purpose of thresholds

At first glance, this element is necessary only to improve the aesthetic component of the coating. But in practice, it performs a number of other, no less important functions. Timely installation of thresholds is not a labor-intensive process. Therefore, it is recommended to include them in the installation diagram and package in advance.

In practice, during operation, the coating accumulates in the cracks formed by the two materials. large number dust and dirt. It will take quite a bit of effort to remove it. By installing a connecting element, you can reduce the labor intensity of operating the floor. In addition to this factor, we note an improvement in the appearance of the coating.

Positive qualities of connecting elements:

• Durability of the coating. The most vulnerable areas of a decorative floor are the edges. Under constant mechanical load, chips and cracks form on their edges. Laminate thresholds between rooms will perform a protective function;
• Safety for residents while walking;
• Possibility to hide minor defects. Most often these are level differences between different floor coverings;
• A choice of various models that differ not only in appearance, but also in material of manufacture, design and installation method.

It is important to choose the right thresholds for laminate flooring with hidden fastenings or a similar model with a different wiring diagram. To do this, you should familiarize yourself with their varieties.

The choice will be influenced not only by operational, but also technical specifications this mounting component. In particular, it is necessary to correctly calculate the width in order to completely cover the transition from tiles to wood flooring.

Installation of thresholds on laminate and other materials is carried out in various ways:

• use of decorative thresholds;
• joint to joint;
• arrangement of podiums.

Types: multi-level, corner, finishing, straight

• Leveling thresholds are designed to reduce the height amplitude between various coatings. With the help of similar structural elements it is possible to hide height differences in the range of 3–18 mm.
• Straight thresholds between rooms are used to create joints between floors of the same height. The maximum possible height variation is no more than one millimeter.
• Corner or staircase - have local application. They are used to fix the flooring near the steps. As a rule, they are made of rubber, since there is always a risk of slipping off the steps.
• As a final step, they decorate the approaches to the balcony, the threshold of the hallway, or frame the edges on the podium floors. They are quite often used as a multi-level threshold between tiles and laminate.

According to the connection method, they are distinguished:

• A metal strip with end-to-end fixation. It is a special strip that is used to cover the joint, pressing its edges to the floor. For mounting as one of possible options, use self-tapping screws equipped with a countersunk head. The plank is also effective when there is a difference in surface heights or imprecise trimming is performed. Silicone sealant can be used to seal the edges of the strip.

• H-shaped profile. It looks like the letter H laid on its side. The bottom shelf starts under installed panels, then the tile is inserted into the opposite groove and laid on the glue. In this case, a gap remains, which is rubbed with a special compound for tiles, and from the side of the lamellas it is filled with sealant. Acrylic or silicone compounds are suitable for this.
• H-shaped collapsible. It has two T-shaped bars that are connected by legs. The bar is installed in accordance with the boundaries of the joint and fixed. Having completed installation, top part, decorative, is inserted into the clip located on the bottom and snapped into place.

In addition, an important point is the choice of material. For a long service life without repairs, it is necessary to carefully check the quality of the product before purchasing it. Aluminum models remain the most popular, as they have all the necessary properties - mechanical strength, do not corrode, can be painted in any color.

But in addition to them, it is possible to select the following types of final delimiters:

• Plastic. A budget option that can only be used if the surface is not subject to heavy loads. Also, a flexible threshold between and the laminate is used to create non-linear patterns.
• From fiberboard. The advantage of this material is its appearance and harmonious combination with the lamellas. Disadvantages include low mechanical strength. To create a pattern, a special film is applied to the surface of the fiberboard, which is protected with a layer of special transparent material.
• Rubber. In fact, rubber is used during the manufacture of flexible thresholds. Sometimes polymers and other inorganic additives are added to the composition to create sufficient elasticity.
• Cork. They are very rare, as they are characterized by high cost and insufficient mechanical strength. Area of ​​application: decorative closing of small cracks.

In addition to these types, manufacturers offer corner thresholds. They are mounted on the edges of steps to prevent slipping while walking.

In some cases, it is possible to use glass products. But at the same time, all safety requirements must be met, since a unique appearance is not the main priority when choosing.

How to install a threshold between tiles and laminate

Wood, plastic or aluminum are used to make decorative thresholds. In texture they can imitate wood, stone or even gem. All this is perfectly suitable for designing joints between slats and tiles. Aluminum accessories are more resistant to abrasion, meaning they last much longer.

Straight thresholds

The easiest way is to install straight thresholds. They tightly close the cracks and prevent dirt or moisture from entering the joining seam. This method is not without its drawbacks:

• Such a transition cannot be called completely smooth, since it protrudes slightly;
• It’s not always possible to choose an accessory to match the floor materials;
• The screws used for fastening are sometimes visible on the surface, although today you can also find laminate thresholds with hidden fastening on the market.

Nevertheless, they are very popular. This is the most practical way to join materials.

• into the floor along the joining line of the laminate and ceramic tiles drive in dowels. This is very easy to do, since all products that are presented on the construction market today have special markings and symmetrical holes for fasteners. It is very easy to mark the base through them;
• According to the markings made, drill holes on the base and screw the threshold with the screws that are included in the kit.
• this doesn't concern wooden bases– the profile is attached to them immediately using self-tapping screws.

For hidden fastening, special glue or liquid nails are used. This method is quite labor-intensive, however, it is more aesthetically pleasing, since it allows you to hide the fasteners.

Make sure that flooring material did not rest against the groove of the threshold. It is necessary to leave a compensation gap of at least 5 mm, which will prevent their linear deformation due to temperature changes.

How to install flexible thresholds

To create joints of complex shapes - curved or curved - use a flexible threshold between the tile and the laminate. Today you can buy these strips, which can take the required shape, in almost any building materials store.

Flexible thresholds consist of two parts. The bottom one, on which there is a groove-clip, is installed during the installation of the floor covering. The decorative insert snaps onto it later, on the finished floor.

These moldings in their normal state are characterized by a small bending radius. Therefore, they need to be softened before work. The plastic is either immersed in warm water for about 15 minutes or use construction hair dryer. The insert, ready for installation, is driven into the lower part of the profile with light blows. A mallet is most suitable; its rubber head will not cause any damage to the surface of the decorative strip.

Look how beautiful these thresholds look - photo:

How to dock without a threshold: connection methods

Today you can finish the joint between tiles and laminate without a threshold. With the proper degree of skill and experience, you can prevent the occurrence of noticeable level differences between two layers of material. There are several options for joining tiles and laminate flooring without a threshold. For each of them, you will need to change the standard coating installation scheme.

• The first step is to prepare the subfloor. Ideal option the same level of first and second coverage is considered. Therefore, you should calculate in advance the thickness of the substrate for the slats and the tile adhesive. After this, the process of laying the latter begins.
• As soon as the border has formed, you can begin installation wooden covering. This will create a joint between the tiles and the laminate without a clear boundary. Once again the emphasis needs to be on the same level. During the installation process it is allowed to use various types primers to form a single pattern. The only condition is safety of operation for wooden slats.
• A more difficult task is connecting laminate and tiles without a wave-shaped threshold. In this case, prepare a mock-up of the form. For this, any suitable material is used, for example, a strip of thin-walled metal. The template is installed at the junction of the coatings. Then the pieces of tile are cut according to the resulting contours and installed on the subfloor. The same procedure is performed with lamellas. It is important that the workpieces fit tightly to the template. After final installation, it is removed and the joint is filled with primer. This is how the installation is done decorative surface using available means.

We present to your attention the most efficient technologies styling

• Cork expansion joints. Although this is new material, but is already popular, since the transition turns out neat and very beautiful. Installation is carried out quickly, however, lengthy preparation is required. In addition, the materials are sawed very carefully to prevent any damage, even the slightest chips. This is due to the fact that the expansion joint is inserted into the joint between the coverings, and it must be even not only in width, but also in depth. To do this, when adjusting these materials to each other, leave a small gap of approximately 2 mm. They vary greatly in strength, and if upon direct contact the tile remains completely intact, then with laminate everything is completely different - the lamellas can become deformed or damaged. The compensator is placed in the joining seam. It is pushed inside using a regular screwdriver. The cork expansion joint does not require any special care or additional processing.

• Sealants (foam, mastic, paste). In this way, you can hide joining seams of any shape, width and depth. The most important point is the choice of compensating material. It must have good adhesion to both surfaces, be strong and elastic. It should be taken into account that after processing the seam becomes permanent, that is, if repairs are necessary, the entire floor is dismantled. Processing of joints is carried out in the following sequence:

• first they lay out the tiles, and when the glue has completely set, the lamellas are adjusted under it;
• the lamellas should cover the tiles with some margin;
• mark the exact cutting line;
• the unnecessary part of the tile is very carefully cut off with a grinder;
• Part of the backing is cut off from the lamellas so that at the seam the height of the joining surfaces is the same. Then the material is thoroughly sanded;
• the laminate with the part from which the backing was cut is fixed to the screed with glue;
• After the materials are tightly joined, begin sealing the seams.