Moisture resistant laminate. Moisture-resistant and waterproof laminate: price, reviews. Application in different rooms

If we compare waterproof laminate for the kitchen with other types of flooring used in the kitchen areas of apartments, then the question involuntarily arises. Why buy a material with a huge margin of wear resistance, at the same time able to withstand water spills, even a flood, if there are tiles and self-leveling floors. Apparently, there are reasons if the owners of the apartment prefer to see a cool laminate in the kitchen rather than sliding on cold and ice-hard ceramics.

Laminate in the kitchen: pros and cons

There are a lot of reasons why apartment owners choose class 34 waterproof laminate for the kitchen. Specialists and master finishers give the two most important arguments in favor of a waterproof laminate:

High wear resistance, with proper installation and periodic maintenance, waterproof laminate will last at least 20 years;
High resistance to cold of the concrete base of the floor, water and water condensate, which are always abundant in the kitchen.

Of the secondary reasons, one can indicate the ease of laying the laminate and the ability to decorate the floors in the kitchen under a natural board, deck or wooden parquet, which is indistinguishable from real wooden floorboards and planks.

Of course, Spanish or Italian ceramic tiles can be much more effective and spectacular than more moderate lamella designs. Often, customers prefer to choose a laminate in the form of tiles in the kitchen, just to make the flooring more alive.

The most important, basic reason why high-end laminate is bought and installed not only in the kitchen, but sometimes in the whole apartment, is the feeling that arises when walking on a quality laminate floor.

Important! Due to the depreciation of the substrate and excellent adhesion to the surface, the load on the legs is much less, and the likelihood of slipping on the floor in the kitchen is zero.

According to master finishers, walking on a waterproof kitchen laminate is as comfortable as walking on parquet or a real deck.

Waterproof and moisture resistant laminate

Not all laminate flooring options used in the kitchen are equally good and durable in everyday use. Traditionally, three categories of laminate are used for residential premises:

Ordinary laminate, capable of absorbing water and condensate at least 8 and up to 16% of the volume. To make the lamellas water-resistant and use them for kitchen flooring, the material is impregnated and glued onto a moisture-resistant base using polyurethane and epoxy adhesive compositions;
Moisture-resistant type of laminate coating absorbs 2-8% of water, the outer coating of a polymer film allows you to protect the kitchen floor from direct contact and seepage through the surface for a short time;
The waterproof version of the laminate can absorb no more than 2% moisture, even when flooded or immersed in water. For the kitchen, this is the most acceptable type of laminate flooring.

The first two types of laminate are made from cellulose or wood fibers. Ordinary material is simply pressed under high pressure, much like fiberboard, or with the addition of active lignin solvents, as in the production of OSB panels. In any case, it turns out an ordinary laminated material for the kitchen with good properties, good heat and sound insulation.

How to turn an ordinary laminate into a waterproof one

To give ordinary laminate waterproof properties, it is enough to stick it without a substrate on a conventional mounting adhesive mass and treat it with polyurethane varnish. Laid on the kitchen floor, a light and already waterproof laminate, due to its high porosity, retains all the previous properties. True, under laying, it will be necessary to waterproof the base in order to avoid the accumulation of moisture under the lamellas.

The only significant drawback of a homemade waterproof laminate is its low resistance to abrasion. When compared with a branded waterproof laminate coating, the service life of the material is almost half as long. Despite the fact that periodically the varnish coating will have to be restored and repaired.

Which laminate is better to choose for the kitchen

Of the above laminate options, only waterproof brands can be considered a full-fledged material for arranging the flooring of a modern kitchen.

Moisture-resistant lamellas, unlike waterproof ones, are also made on the basis of wood-cellulose fibers, albeit with impregnation with polymer compositions. Such a coating is still capable of retaining water spilled on a surface protected by a film, but the joints and the wrong side do not have such protection. Manufacturers of moisture-resistant laminate claim that the material can withstand contact with water for several hours, but in practice only new lamellas can boast of such characteristics. After a couple of years, the ability to resist moisture drops by an order of magnitude due to abrasion of the film in the lock joints. It is necessary to take into account the specifics and enhance the waterproof qualities of the lamellas by gluing the locks during installation.

In a modern kitchen, a flood or spillage of large amounts of water can occur at any time, so it is best to use moisture-resistant grades of material to equip a waterproof laminate flooring.

Structure and materials of waterproof slats

There are two types of waterproof lamellas on the market:

The matrix is made only of polymeric materials;
Composite laminate based on pressed lignin-cellulose mass impregnated with polyethylene and polyurethane compounds.

Laminate based on polymer-wood composites is considered the cheapest and most affordable in the line of waterproof lamellar coatings. It perfectly tolerates flooding and even long-term, up to 5 hours, stay in water. The coating has good thermal insulation, but due to the short fiber from which the matrix is made, it is considered to be more rigid and more brittle. When laying the lamellas, good leveling of the kitchen floors and special care when joining the locks are required. According to its characteristics, waterproof laminate is closest to the terrace board.

The polymer version of the waterproof laminate is made on the basis of a high-pressure treated polyvinyl chloride substrate. The intermediate layer can be made of polyethylene or polypropylene. Further, decorative PVC film or paper, the top layer is made of polyurethane or heavy-duty polyester film.

The strength of a waterproof laminate is evidenced by the fact that you can chop nuts on its surface, put hot dishes for a short time, wash with any type of detergent and even extinguish cigarette butts, if such an idea comes to someone's mind.

Laminate manufacturers

Most offers of waterproof laminate on the market can be divided into three groups:

Chinese coatings from little-known European manufacturers. Firms with names consonant with global trademarks and brands, registered on paper in Europe, are actually selling low-quality cheap laminate;
Floor coverings produced under license or counterfeits of well-known manufacturers;
Very expensive high-quality waterproof laminate, sold on order and prepaid.

Of the world manufacturers, only Gastilla, Meister, Tarkett, Egger maintain their reputation on the Russian market, other firms are in question. For example, you can safely buy a class 34 waterproof laminate for the kitchen from a Tarkett representative and forget about the flooring in the kitchen for twenty years in advance.

Color and texture of waterproof laminate

The design of waterproof coatings, as a rule, is performed in several patterns imitating a parquet or deck board with a wide variety of surface textures.

The reason for the mass use of the "wooden" design is the arrangement of lamellas, usually a board or a strip of pressed material with an aspect ratio of 1:9. For a large kitchen, a 1:16 laminate is used, which allows you to create the impression of a classic type of stacked wooden floor. It can be dark bog oak or light cedar. The colors of chestnut and beech remain the leaders in sales.

Teak colors are always designed as a multi-striped pattern, while oak and coniferous on the surface of a waterproof laminate are reproduced only as an imitation of a wooden floor.

If you choose a waterproof laminate for the kitchen under the tiles, then it is better to refuse a material with a pronounced fiber pattern on the surface, there is too much contrast with the tiled finish.

A waterproof laminate for kitchen tiles looks ideal if a coating of the same color is used with the furniture facade. Waterproof brands of laminate are somewhat darker than conventional varieties, which is explained by the presence of an additional protective layer on the surface.

The wooden pattern of the flooring does not always go well with the interior of the kitchen, so manufacturers produce a whole series of moisture-resistant monochromatic laminate with a very small, barely visible pattern. This option is considered universal. Once you have chosen and laid a waterproof laminate floor, you can change and transform furniture sets in the kitchen without fear of dissonance in colors or textures.

Strength class

You can purchase material only if you know the required class of laminate for the kitchen. In the laminate class coding, the first digit indicates the withstand load, the second - the level of security.

For example, coding class 22 indicates a moisture-resistant material designed for rooms with an average load. It can be living rooms of an apartment and a house. For the kitchen, such material can only be used if a maximum of 1-2 people live in the apartment.

A more durable class 32 material can already be freely used in any kitchen, such a coating is calculated for heavy traffic, but the level of protection remains in the “moisture resistant” category. After gluing the joints, the floor in the kitchen will be only slightly inferior to a full-fledged class 33 plastic laminate layer.

Laminate class 33 and 34 has characteristics that are largely overestimated and redundant, as for the conditions of an ordinary apartment kitchen. Lamellas up to 8 mm thick are designed for shops, cafes, canteens, where people walk in shoes, with traces of moisture and street dust.

Such conditions are almost impossible to find in the kitchen. Is that the kitchen of a street cafe. For home apartments, even a corridor, even a kitchen, a class 32 waterproof laminate will suffice. It is clear that the purchase of class 34 coverage means that either half of the money is simply wasted, or the owners bought a floor that future generations of the family will use.

The price of a moisture-resistant laminate coating depends on the brand and class. For example, a square meter from the German Egger, class 32, costs 1020-1250 rubles. A similar Taiwanese Build System laminate costs 690 rubles per square. Floor material from Egger, but already 33 classes costs almost 1,500 rubles. Vintage brands of coatings of the same class 32 from the Belgian Tower Floor are sold at 13 thousand rubles per square.

How to install laminate flooring in the kitchen

Laying technology is usually selected depending on the class of material. Top class 32 moisture-resistant materials based on cellulose fiber matrix can be glued to the prepared concrete subfloor of the kitchen, or most often butt-jointed.

For 32 classes, it is imperative to use lining material. The cheapest is polyethylene foam, but it is best to lay the lamellas on a cork sheet. The floor surface is sequentially recruited from individual boards. Each strip is put into engagement by locks with the groove of the previous lamella until it snaps into place, is knocked out and placed on the base. To keep the joints waterproof, the locks are treated with a sealant. The assembled canvas is crimped along the contour of the kitchen using wooden skirting boards.

Class 33-34 lamellas are mainly glued to a concrete or self-leveling screed, poured in the kitchen at least a week before assembly.

Care rules

A waterproof floor based on class 32 material requires regular maintenance. For example, joints and seams after wetting must be wiped dry, and if the lamellas are made with chamfers, then it is advisable to blow out the places of possible air leakage.

Approximately once every three months, the seams on the kitchen floors are overwritten with a special waterproof mastic that enhances the water-repellent properties of the material.

Laminate and underfloor heating

Underfloor heating equipment in the kitchen involves the use of a waterproof type of laminate with a certain amount of thermal resistance. According to EU standards, a moisture-resistant kitchen floor must have a thermal resistance of no more than 0.11-0.14 m 2 * K / W. This is taking into account the indicators of the substrate. The thicker the lined flooring laid over the heating surface, the more likely it is that the cable will overheat and melt. Bonded flooring is the best conductor of heat.

The laminate resistance index is also taken into account when calculating floors for a kitchen with a hydraulic heating circuit. Of course, there will be no fire, but the heating efficiency can be reduced by 30-40% if the coating is chosen incorrectly.

Information about thermal resistance is indicated on the packaging with lamellas. Sometimes, instead of tricky calculations, the manufacturer simply puts a mark indicating that the coating can be used together with a warm floor in the kitchen.

Conclusion

Waterproof laminate for the kitchen is gradually replacing lighter coatings. The use of a class 32-33 coating is reasonably considered to be expensive, but at the same time the most effective, comfortable and reliable way to equip a kitchen floor, designed for 10-15 years of service.

Provide for the use of laminate flooring. This is more than understandable, given the impressive list of advantages that this material has. These include, in particular, its excellent aesthetics, strength, reliability and durability.

Of course, different types of laminates have different characteristics. So, products of class 31 are quite “gentle” and are used mainly in the home. Moreover, in those rooms where the permeability is quite low (bedroom or office, for example). Class 32 laminate can be used even in small offices. 33 and 34 classes are generally considered the most durable and reliable.

As for the moisture-resistant properties of the product in question, everything is not so simple here. Often, manufacturers assure that their products are not afraid of moisture. Is it worth believing such promises, because many consumers have experienced from their own experience the harmful effects of liquid on laminate slabs?

In fact, it should be understood that there are a huge number of ways to protect the floor from moisture damage.

The top layer of the laminated board is not afraid of it. Another thing is that if water enters the joints of the lock connection (and it is one of the most popular today), problems can occur. Often in this place the board swells and swells. Such damage is visible even to the naked eye. Of course, if liquid is removed from the floor in time, this will not happen. That is why many happy owners of the coating in question react very sharply to spilled tea or “pranks” of animals.

However, technology does not stand still. Today, the construction of houses from timber, logs and other wooden materials is not by chance so common. There are a huge number of special impregnations that can significantly increase the resistance of wood to moisture. Similar materials are used in their work and laminate manufacturers.

Some of them cover the joints of the boards with special compounds, others use them to treat the base of the board. Another way to increase the moisture-resistant characteristics of the floor is to use special glue when installing it. Of course, in this case we are not talking about the castle, but about the adhesive method.

But all this applies to conventional laminate, which has increased moisture-resistant properties. In addition, there are also so-called waterproof products that can be used in rooms where exposure to liquid is not random, but regular. For example, in the pool, sauna, bathroom and kitchen.

Laminate is a versatile type of flooring that is found everywhere. Shopping centers, apartments, offices, brick and wooden houses often have just such a finish.

And, if you approach the choice of material competently and responsibly, it will serve its owner faithfully for many years. Even under difficult operating conditions.

Does the laminate deteriorate from exposure to water?

When choosing flooring for the kitchen, residents of high-rise buildings begin to think that sometimes small troubles associated with water occur. Either friendly neighbors from above will start flooding, then from time to time the washing mixer hose will burst, then a pot or kettle with hot water will tip over. And as you understand, all this will be reflected in the flooring. Of course, you want the floor in the kitchen to look presentable, and for this you can offer a lot of materials, for example:

waterproof special from the category of waterproof;
linoleum;
ceramic tiles;

All these materials will look great on the kitchen floor, since the assortment, colors and manufacturers are widely represented on the modern building materials market. But there are too many claims to linoleum. Firstly, it is faster than other floor materials, fading, fails. In addition, it perfectly absorbs fat and other liquids.

Secondly, after flooding, linoleum swells, and there is no way to bring it back to its original form. Parquet also has a low resistance to water and other liquids, so it is better not to lay it in the kitchen. Ceramic tile would be ideal for a kitchen, but it falls into the category of cold materials, and dropped dishes usually break immediately, which most often upsets the hostess.

Laminate brands that are not afraid of water

Waterproof laminate is practically not afraid of moisture

So we brought the conversation to the fact that nothing is better than laminate for flooring in the kitchen today. But the kitchen is a very capricious room in terms of high traffic, heavy loads on the floors and the constant presence of water and humidity. What can laminate manufacturers offer today? They offer three grades of this flooring material that can withstand water.

Moisture resistant laminate

The first brand is a moisture resistant laminate. Manufacturers have tried to introduce components into the composition of this type that could increase the unique abilities of the material with respect to exposure to liquids. In addition, the locks of this product are processed with hot wax. During the laying process, wax fills all the joints and gaps that remain in the lock system.

This is a kind of sealant that does not allow water to penetrate under the laminate, leaving its base always dry. But it is the base that primarily suffers from the water that has fallen on it.

Waterproof laminate

The second brand is a waterproof laminate. How does it differ from its moisture-resistant counterpart? And there is only one difference. This brand can be completely immersed in water and does not change its qualities for six hours. Only then can the waterproof material begin to absorb moisture or water. Here is the indicator. New manufacturing techniques help to increase the resistance of such material. Hot wax is also used here, but the methods of its application have been changed, and the number of layers has also been increased. By the way, waterproof laminate can be laid not only in the kitchen. He will feel great even in the bathroom.

Today, a completely new type of product has begun to appear on the market, which is not afraid of not only cold water, but also hot. This is a breakthrough in the modern production of floor materials, especially laminate. In addition, such plates are made using a completely unique technology. Currently, this type of laminate is represented on the market by a domestic manufacturer with its own brand AQUAPOL.

If moisture gets on the laminate, be sure to wipe it with a dry cloth

This type has a number of excellent properties and qualities:

First, it is thinner - its thickness is only 3.8 millimeters. Compared with the traditional which lies in the range of 8-12 millimeters.
Secondly, as mentioned above, this laminate is not afraid of hot water.
Thirdly, when carrying out installation work, the substrate is not needed.
Fourthly, AQUAPOL can be laid on any surface. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of the new material. It costs, however, a little more.

So, after everything that was said above, you will have to decide on the choice of material. And as you can see, there is a choice.

With the advent of moisture-resistant and water-resistant types of laminate on the market, the scope of laminate flooring has greatly expanded and, as a result, its popularity. However, at the same time, the choice of material became more complicated. The situation is aggravated by the fact that most buyers do not know what the difference is between them. Many believe that this is the same coating that is immune to water. Having chosen a moisture-resistant laminate for the bathroom, buyers then wonder why it almost immediately begins to lose its aesthetic qualities. In fact, these are two different types of material, and their scope (as well as technical properties) are quite different for them.

When shopping for flooring for a wet room, the first thing you need to decide is whether you need a waterproof laminate or a moisture-resistant one. Let's try to figure out which coating is simply not afraid of dampness, and which one is completely immune to moisture. But first, let's answer the question...

What is the difference between a moisture resistant laminate and a conventional one?

The main difference between a moisture-resistant laminate and a conventional one lies in the production technology, which allows you to create a material with increased resistance to moisture and dampness. In general, it does not differ much from the production method of conventional laminated boards.

To improve moisture-resistant qualities, the product is equipped with a high-density HDF-plate impregnated with a special water-repellent composition. The resulting load-bearing part of the board absorbs moisture much less than a standard coating. In addition, a waterproofing film can be added to the top protective layer. After pressing, it is not visible at all, and this does not affect the decorative properties of the material.

Additionally, the panels are treated with an antiseptic composition that prevents the formation of fungi and other microorganisms on the surface of the product. The side and outer parts of the waterproof laminate are covered with resin or wax impregnations to improve the water-repellent qualities of the material.

Thus, the introduction of some features in the production technology associated with the raw materials and equipment used, made it possible to produce a laminate with the required moisture resistance.

Many installers, after laying the coating, all joints between the panels are additionally treated with water-repellent mastic. The resulting moisture-resistant laminate compound has enhanced waterproofing properties.

All these measures together increase the resistance of the coating to moisture. This coating is great for use in the kitchen or hallway, where there is periodic contact with water and high humidity.

However, moisture-resistant laminate is not suitable for installation in bathrooms, saunas, verandas, unheated rooms and other similar areas with constant water presence and temperature fluctuations. This requires the use of a waterproof coating.

A waterproof laminate, in contrast to a moisture resistant one, is a product that « not afraid of water » in the truest sense of the word. This is due to the fact that the basis of the material is made of polyvinyl chloride (plastic or just vinyl), which is completely inert to water in any form. The panels repel water, allowing it to evaporate naturally. The structure of the product does not deform even during prolonged contact with moisture, for example, in a bathhouse or on a veranda, where precipitation (rain, snow) and temperature changes are possible.

Some manufacturers, when testing, immerse products in water for several days, which does not affect their technical properties.

Moisture-resistant and waterproof laminate: similarities and differences

Similarities:

The same laying technology (using a lock connection);
Effective protection against drops of water, evaporation and moisture;
High sound and heat insulation characteristics of the laminate (however, like a conventional laminated coating).

Differences:

Waterproof laminate is based on PVC board, moisture resistant - wood fiber;
Moisture resistance is higher for a laminate with a plastic base;
Moisture resistant material is more affordable. However, here this should not be a reason for buying: why buy such a bath cover if it is absolutely not intended for these purposes !?

Main classes

There are 7 basic material classes: 21, 22, 23, 31, 32, 33 and 34. The first digit in the class number indicates the coating load group:

household premises - 2;
commercial premises - 3.

Household classes have lost their popularity, and it is almost impossible to find them in the store.

The higher the second digit in the class, the higher the wear resistance of the coating.

You can read more about the classes of laminated coatings in the article "What is a laminate class?"

This classification according to GOST is valid for both conventional coatings and waterproof ones. The class does not affect the moisture resistance of the laminate. Water resistant laminate models can be in any commercial grade.

In recent years, class 43 laminate flooring has appeared on the market. It is not included in the official classification according to GOST 32304-2013. However, in this way, manufacturers are trying to show the increased performance properties of their product, in particular, the water resistance of the laminate.

8 rules for choosing a moisture-resistant laminate

Determine the degree of humidity of the room in which it is planned to lay the floor covering. For the kitchen, corridor or hallway, it is enough to use a moisture-resistant laminate. For more humid rooms (bathroom, bath, sauna) and rooms with frequent temperature changes (veranda, unheated room in the house), you should choose a waterproof coating.
When buying, you need to pay attention to the labeling of products. The material box usually contains the word "aqua" or "water resist", which means the resistance (to a certain extent) of the coating to moisture. Pictograms of a tap, an umbrella, or water drops may also be present.
Correctly determine the required material class. This is an important parameter, since it determines how wear-resistant the coating is, that is, in which rooms it is recommended to use it. Class 33 is suitable for the kitchen and hallway, for other rooms it is advisable to choose a class of at least 32. You should not overpay for class 34, as it is more relevant for industrial and commercial premises with high traffic. For a bath or sauna, choose class 43 - PVC-based waterproof products.
To choose a laminate with good moisture resistance, pay attention to:
- the value of the density of the carrier HDF-board: the larger it is, the more durable the coating and less susceptible to moisture;
- swelling coefficient - the degree of decomposition of the material when immersed in water for 24 hours (the standard figure is 18%, if it is less, the coating is more moisture resistant).
The cost of moisture resistant products is higher than conventional coatings. But in most cases, it is more expedient to buy such a coating, since its characteristics are better and it will last longer.
Product warranty. For a good moisture-resistant laminate, the manufacturer gives a guarantee of 25-30 years or even a lifetime.
Pay attention to the quality of the connecting locks. They must ensure that the panels fit tightly to each other, which is one of the main factors in the effectiveness of waterproof panels, otherwise water will enter the joints, destroying the structure from the inside.
Products with a smooth surface are not the best option for permanent use. You can slip on them, especially if there is water on the surface. A more practical solution is a variant with a relief or structured surface.

Rules for laying moisture resistant laminate

If you have no experience in laying such a floor covering, this does not mean that you need to contact the masters in specialized companies. The choice, of course, is yours, but all the work can be done independently. The technology of laying a moisture-resistant or waterproof laminate is no different from the installation of conventional laminated coatings.

Required tool:

Pencil and ruler-corner;
Electric jigsaw or circular saw;
Hammer;
Doboynik;
Stationery knife;
Roulette;
Scotch.

Some collections do not have a bottom soundproof layer. In this case, before starting laying, it is necessary to cover the floor with rolled sound insulation (so that the material does not move, it is necessary to glue the joints with adhesive tape).

Installation is carried out on a pre-leveled floor. The orientation of the panels should be parallel to the light streams coming from the window:

First, the left front (farthest from the entrance to the room) corner is laid;
Installation of the panels of the first row is carried out in such a way that the space from the tiles to the walls is at least 8 mm. To maintain a constant distance, wedges can be installed.
The laying of the second row is carried out with a displacement of the transverse joints by 30-60 cm. Fastening with lock joints is carried out in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturers (see on the box), depending on the type of lock. It is necessary to try so that there are no visible gaps at the junction points. This can be achieved by lining the panels to each other.
After laying, the wedges are removed, and the gaps to the wall are masked with skirting boards. At the same time, technological gaps must remain so that the coating does not deform during thermal expansion.
Next, you can use a water-repellent grout (putty) for the laminate, which processes all the joints of the panels. This significantly increases the moisture resistance of the laminate and its durability.

Moisture resistant laminate manufacturers

Most modern manufacturers (domestic and foreign) have collections of moisture-resistant laminate. Among them are the following brands: Alloc, Classen, Kronospan, Pergo, Quick-Step, Tarkett, Witex, etc.

If we talk about waterproof laminate, then the best manufacturers are in Germany, the Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden) and Belgium.

How much is?

The cost of flooring plays an important role when choosing. On the one hand, if you are going to buy laminated panels, then you are ready for higher prices compared to, for example, linoleum. On the other hand, the price of a waterproof laminate is much higher than a regular one.

Moisture-resistant laminate of the budget category can be purchased at a price of 500 rubles / sq. m. Usually these are domestic products, which differ in different levels of quality, but on average are of lower quality than foreign counterparts. Products of European companies are more expensive.

Prices for waterproof plastic laminate start from 1000 rubles per square meter.

Be careful when buying: often sellers indicate that the material is waterproof, although in reality it is just a moisture-resistant laminate. But now you already know how to distinguish one from the other.

Conclusion

To make a solid and high-quality laminate flooring in rooms with high humidity, you should focus on three fundamental factors:

accurately determine the degree of humidity in the room;
choose the right type of coating, with the necessary and sufficient protection against water;
perform the installation of the coating in compliance with all norms and rules.

Even inexpensive flooring can last quite a long time if it is suitable for the room and properly installed. If you doubt your abilities, it is better to entrust the work to specialists or at least learn the intricacies of the process from professionals.

A couple of years ago, it was impossible to imagine a laminate that was laid in a bathroom or in a pool. It seems that the tandem of the wood from which this coating is made, and the water that inevitably falls on the floor in such rooms, is impossible. However, today, in the production of laminate, innovative technologies are used that make it possible to translate such a solution into reality. Today we will talk about how to choose a moisture resistant laminate.

Features of moisture resistant laminate

Today, decorative finishing of housing is simply impossible without the use of various floor coverings, among which a special place is occupied by laminate. Such material is at the same time very attractive, easy to use and affordable when compared with parquet and other floor coverings.

Modern laminate is used not only in living rooms (bedrooms, children's rooms, living rooms, hallways and kitchens), but also in bathrooms and showers. Some types of laminate that mimic ceramic tiles, slate and natural stone are even installed in saunas and swimming pools.

Water resistance is the weakest point of any laminate. The top of any such floor covering is generally capable of preventing moisture. But, if water gets into the junction of two laminate plates, then it will penetrate further inside, so swelling is threatened in the future. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to lay a waterproof laminate.

The technology for the production of a moisture-resistant laminate is similar to the process for manufacturing a standard coating. But the plates are not made from chips, but from solid wood fibers. This already at this stage allows the material to become more water resistant. The process of pressing and special processing of wood fibers takes place at high pressure and high temperature.

As a result of such manipulations, the material becomes very dense, it no longer allows the smallest drops of water to pass through. In addition, after pressing, the boards are covered with a special solution that does not allow fungus and mold to develop when laying the laminate in rooms with high humidity (bathroom, bath, bath), and then a substance containing resins and wax is applied to it in several layers, which repels water. Therefore, all cracks are perfectly sealed, without letting moisture through and without destroying the wood material itself.

Moisture-resistant laminate consists of the following layers: a corrugated top layer, a waterproof reinforced layer, a decorative film with a pattern, a main base that is also waterproof, a fastening system and a substrate of a stabilizing nature. The main characteristics of a waterproof laminate are as follows: moisture resistance, impact resistance, no deformation from temperature fluctuations and slip, antistatic properties (dust does not settle on the surface), mold protection and environmental safety.

Waterproof and moisture resistant laminate

When choosing a laminate, you should pay attention to the fact that there are moisture-resistant and waterproof laminates on sale, which have some differences between them. The difference is fundamental for those consumers who decide how to cover the floor in the kitchen or in the bathroom, where there is an increased level of moisture. Although modern moisture-resistant laminate has high wear-resistant characteristics!

A waterproof laminate is not resistant to simple moisture, fumes and dampness, but to direct contact with water. All the gaps that exist between the laminate plates are closed in the most reliable way - with the help of heated wax. Some manufacturers guarantee the safety of such a laminate even after it has been in water for several weeks, since plastic is used instead of a wood-fiber base. The best manufacturers of waterproof laminate are two German companies Grande and Castilia.

Moisture-resistant laminate is treated with paraffin and various compounds that can only prevent moisture for some time. The basis of such a coating is a high-strength fiberboard, but it does not withstand prolonged exposure to water, it begins to rot and swell. In addition, a moisture-resistant laminate is able to change its volume with temperature fluctuations.

Based on the above properties of water and moisture resistant laminate, the following conclusions can be drawn. Moisture-resistant laminate is not afraid of dirt and wet cleaning, prevents the development of bacteria and fungus, and therefore is great for laying in the hallway and in the kitchen. However, as a coating for a bathroom, sauna, bath, pool, balcony and veranda, it is better to take a waterproof laminate that resists prolonged exposure to water and atmospheric phenomena, almost does not deform and does not wear out.

In order for a moisture-resistant laminate to retain its properties, you need to properly care for the coating. If water gets on the surface, you should immediately wipe it off, without checking the water-repellent properties of the laminated board. Problems arise only when moisture passes through the panels, thus violating the basis of the laminate flooring. As a result, the panels are filled with moisture, begin to rise and deform, and the floor becomes embossed. Therefore, long-term interaction with water, even the highest quality waterproof laminate, is not desirable.

Choosing a moisture resistant laminate

Moisture-resistant laminate flooring is now offered by almost all major manufacturers. Therefore, it is so important to know how to choose a truly high-quality material.

Description

In the description of a moisture-resistant laminate, as a rule, the word aqua is present. For example, Aqua-Protect or Aqua Resist. On the packaging of the laminate, the markings depict an umbrella or a faucet with a drop and similar symbols that help to understand which laminate is moisture resistant.

Even a non-professional consumer can easily distinguish a moisture-resistant laminate. It has a specific green HDF plate, visible when cutting through the material. It is this layer that is absolutely resistant to moisture and dampness, prevents the reproduction of fungus and bacteria due to antibacterial impregnation.

Load class

A popular criterion for evaluating the quality of a coating is the load class. It is recommended to choose a coating of at least the 32nd class - for example, moisture-resistant Dumafloor laminate. The best solution for the kitchen will be the 33rd class, which is stronger and more durable than the coating of the 31st and 32nd class. Many buyers have noticed that the moisture resistance of a class 33 coating will be much higher than that of its “younger relatives”.

But the purchase of a 34th class laminate for home use, according to experienced specialists, is not always justified. First of all, it is intended for commercial premises, and its price is much higher. The durability and strength of a laminate will often depend on the manufacturer. For example, a German grade 32 laminated board is better in quality than a Chinese or Russian grade 33 laminate.

Properties

To figure out which is the best moisture-resistant laminate from several very similar options, it is recommended to look at the density index of HDF-bearing boards: the higher this parameter is, the more durable the coating is, and less afraid of moisture.

Another important indicator is the swelling coefficient, which is determined using tests when the laminate is kept in water for 24 hours. The indicative rate is 18% for this indicator. The lower the swelling coefficient, the more moisture resistant the laminate is.

To check the quality of the laminate at home and its moisture resistance, do this. Saw off a small piece of laminate or take a ready-made sample for testing, put it in water at room temperature for 8 hours. During this time, it should swell no more than 18%. For example, if the thickness of the laminate is 8 millimeters, then the thickness after such manipulations should be no more than 9.5 millimeters. Practice shows that low-quality laminate will swell by 30-40%, and maybe more.

Price

Remember that the prices for moisture-resistant collections will be significantly higher than the cost of an ordinary floor covering. And this is quite logical: the more expensive the laminate, the better it is, and its characteristics are better. You should definitely not save on quality by choosing a cheap laminate of an unknown brand.

Expensive laminate from well-known manufacturers will serve you for many years: the best laminate manufacturers issue a guarantee for it for 25-50 years. Moisture-resistant laminate of economy class, but of tolerable quality, in online stores costs from 500 rubles per square meter. Remember that there is no class 32 laminate cheaper than 380 rubles per square meter. Very often it is written on the price tags of such a laminate that it is made in Belgium or Germany, but in fact it is made in China or Russia. The price of a high-quality moisture-resistant laminate from European manufacturers, as a rule, starts at about 1,300 rubles per square meter.

A compromise option, inconvenient, but sometimes justified, is such a decision. You can lay an economy-class laminate on the floor, which in a few years will need to be replaced with a more durable and high-quality moisture resistant one, you will have time to raise money to buy such a thing. Fortunately, the installation of a modern laminate with locks is a quick, relatively simple and inexpensive process.

Connecting locks

When buying a laminate that is not afraid of exposure to water, be sure to look at the connecting locks. They should, ideally, firmly fix the panels to each other without gaps. If the locking mechanism is good, then after laying the laminate between the boards there will be almost no gaps, and water will have a chance to get into the joints. And if, when laying a moisture-resistant laminated board, you make a good leveling of the floor and place a cork underlay, you can completely forget about your fears.

Laminate locks, which are the vulnerable point of the coating, can be impregnated superficially or deeply. Deep impregnation, like Tarkett's moisture-resistant laminate, can well protect the surface from the harmful effects of moisture, and surface impregnation can only provide water repellency. And it's up to you to figure out which is which!

When buying, look at the product: locks with shallow impregnation look quite wet and slippery, but if the processing is done with high quality, then attempts to scrape off the wax with a fingernail will not lead to anything. If some of the wax remains on the nails, this indicates a good level of surface treatment, however, such a laminate will cause some problems in the future, such as floor deformation.

Appearance

Laminate is a rather slippery flooring. Especially when the same ill-fated water hits him. In order not to accidentally slip in the kitchen, you should give preference to a floor covering not with a smooth surface, but with a slightly embossed and structured one.

For a bathroom, a laminate is best suited, which resembles ceramic tiles in its structure and has the following features: non-standard shape - small plates, the dimensions of which reach 400 by 400 to 400 by 1200; pronounced shine that allows the bathroom to be embellished.

Manufacturers and collections

We will mention only some of the major manufacturers of laminate flooring, in the range of which there are collections with moisture-resistant properties. On the Russian market, the most famous brands are: Pergo, Alloc, moisture-resistant laminate Witex, Kronospan, Classen, Quick-Step, Tarkett. European-made laminate, which is made in Germany, Belgium, Norway or Sweden, has a good reputation.

Such a laminate is considered more durable and of high quality. Many buyers in their reviews claim that it lasts longer, scratches less and withstands even large "bays" and "floods" perfectly. It is recommended to buy a waterproof laminated coating only in closed pavilions and specialized stores, where there are all quality certificates for such products.

At a price, domestically produced laminated coatings are more affordable. In addition, many well-known European manufacturers produce their products at their own Russian factories. Therefore, you need to pay attention not only to the brand, but also to the address indicated on the package.

It is wrong to think that only bad laminate is produced in our country. For example, some types of Tarkett moisture-resistant laminate are made from European boards, and these collections have very good characteristics. Quick Step laminate is made at a Russian factory from boards made in Belgium. And the laminated boards they produce in our country are successfully sold in Europe or the States. The plant's warranty will equally apply to both Europe and our country.

How to recognize Chinese laminate

If you are interested in how to choose the best laminate, how to recognize Chinese material and not confuse it with European, you should use our recommendations. First, check the laminated board for smell. High-quality class E1 flooring practically does not smell.

After that, pay attention to the size of the laminate. If the board has a length of 1215 millimeters and a thickness of 12.3 millimeters, then this is a 99% Chinese product. Such characteristics of the laminate are determined by the factory settings of Chinese manufacturers of moisture-resistant laminate, since a laminate with similar parameters is the cheapest to produce.

You should also check the labeling of the laminate flooring. On the board of a moisture-resistant laminate of Chinese origin, very often nothing is written. In Europe and Russia, there is always a marking and the country of origin is indicated. In this case, the manufacturer is never written in an abbreviated version. It is not correct if the laminate packaging says "made in EU". Must be marked "made in France".

In addition, it is possible to distinguish the Chinese counterpart from the European high-quality laminate in a different way. Look at the color of its reverse side. The reverse side of the laminate made in China is brown, while the reverse side of the Europeans is beige. But recently, cases have become more frequent when the reverse side of the Chinese also has a beige color.

Beyond that, you can go all-in on testing the quality of moisture-resistant laminate flooring. You just need to check the repeatability of the image on the boards. All manufacturers of expensive laminated flooring are trying to achieve such an effect when the laminate, which imitates a wooden floorboard, was as similar as possible to it. Remember that each plank of wooden flooring has its own unique individual pattern.

Therefore, self-respecting manufacturers of laminated coatings are trying to make as many boards with various patterns as possible. The minimum repeatability of boards is 1:6. for example, if you opened 4 packs and found that there were no more than 6 boards with different patterns for wood, then the manufacturer tried to save as much as possible. And if the company saves on this, then it is unlikely that it did not save on more significant characteristics. Now you understand how much a good quality moisture-resistant laminate costs?

Let's take an example. Unilin adheres to the repeatability of the unique image 1:60 in the manufacture of the Largo Quick Step laminated boards! But Chinese manufacturers, as a rule, make a moisture-resistant laminate with a pattern repeatability of 1 to 4 or even 1 to 3. Do not fall for this trick!

Fiction, or harsh reality?

Many have heard a strange, and even absurd statement - " If you pour water on the laminated floor, then after a few minutes the laminate will swell and deform, eventually deteriorating completely.".

Is laminate flooring really afraid of water? How much is the laminate afraid of liquid? Bath and kitchen for laminate - a taboo? - There are many questions.

In fact, you need to know that the laminate is different. In fact, these can be completely different floor coverings, primarily distinguished by their class.

Laminate classification

Each laminate has its own class, which determines its most important properties. Of course, the higher the class of laminate, the thicker, stronger, more durable and more reliable it is:

Laminate of low class and quality is really afraid of water and moisture. A small puddle will suffice. to render your floor unusable;

Laminate middle class and quality is also afraid of water and moisture. But compared to low-end laminate, it's a little less. Half an hour is the deadline for mid-range laminate;

High-end laminate flooring is distinguished by the fact that it can withstand exposure to water for a long time, for example, for several hours. However, even such a laminate is afraid of water and moisture, and its protective properties will last only a few hours.

A special class of laminate - waterproof, which can be installed in the kitchen, bathroom and even in the pool. However, the price of such a laminate can bite.

Once and for all we close the issue of laminate in the house.

To help you get rid of annoying thoughts - " How to wash it?!" And " Why did we buy into this?", the European leader in household chemicals HG offers a whole line of special products for the care, protection and restoration of laminate flooring.

HG LAMINATE CLEANER AND SHINE

An effective detergent cleans the floor, filling the room with freshness. In addition, the agent leaves a protective layer that protects the laminate floor from minor scratches, tarnishing and wear. It removes various dirt, shoe marks and stubborn stains, and the special detergent properties of the product simplify the subsequent cleaning process.

HG LAMINATE CLEANER

Intensive cleaner for removing stubborn dirt, grease, food stains and streaks from laminate and laminated wood. Can be used to remove HG Laminate Protector and Shine.

HG SPRAY FOR LAMINATE 500 ML

Spray for laminate flooring allows you to turn daily cleaning into a real pleasure.

The easy-to-use spray can quickly and easily remove dust and light dirt. Perfectly disinfects the surface and leaves a pleasant smell.

Features of moisture resistant laminate

Waterproof and moisture resistant laminate

Choosing a moisture resistant laminate

Moisture-resistant laminate flooring is now offered by almost all major manufacturers. Therefore, it is so important to know how to choose a truly high-quality material.

Description

Load class

Properties

Price

Connecting locks

Appearance

Manufacturers and collections

How to recognize Chinese laminate

Laminate has long ceased to be a material sensitive to moisture. Now it is successfully used in the kitchen, and sometimes in the bathroom. It is a mistake to believe that moisture-resistant and waterproof laminate are the same thing, they have different resistance to high humidity. Let's figure out how to choose the right moisture-resistant and water-resistant laminate.

Differences between moisture resistant laminate and waterproof

Moisture-resistant laminate is treated with a special substance that is resistant to moisture, such a substance creates a kind of "shield". The material is able to withstand short exposure to moisture.
resistant not only to moisture, but also directly to water, such a laminate is ready to "tolerate" moisture and water on itself for much longer.

Rules for choosing a coating that is resistant to moisture

When choosing a moisture-resistant (or water-resistant) laminate, always look for the word “aqua” in its description. In addition, any manufacturer facilitates the selection process for the consumer and makes a mark on his product, for example, draws a droplet. Such marks immediately make it clear that the laminate is resistant to moisture.
There are several options for the class of laminate. The higher the class, the more durable the laminate. Choose the class of laminate, depending on the room in which it will be laid. So for the kitchen you will need the highest class laminate, while for the bathroom you can take a lower class.
Always look at the swell factor of the laminate. The lower the swelling percentage, the more water resistant the laminate is.
Don't be fooled by the low price. It is quite logical that the cost of a moisture-resistant laminate will be higher than that of a conventional one.
Pay attention to the warranty period indicated by the manufacturer. The minimum warranty for a good laminate is 15 years. The bigger, the better.
When choosing a waterproof laminate, pay special attention to docking locks. They must connect the laminate panels as firmly as possible. This reduces the chances of water getting under the panels.

Laying

Laying a waterproof and moisture-resistant laminate is practically no different from laying the simplest laminate. It consists of several stages:

Careful leveling of the floor surface.
Laying a special substrate.
Actually laminate flooring. In this case, the laminate panels should lie tightly to each other, but not bend.
Processing docking locks with sealant.

It is this stage that distinguishes laying a waterproof laminate from a conventional one. High-quality sealant does not allow water and moisture to penetrate inside, under the laminate panels. At the same time, the sealant does not stick the panels together, which is very important.

Care

Both moisture-resistant and water-resistant, laminate flooring needs very easy maintenance. Since it has established itself as a reliable coating that can withstand most mechanical influences, you can use brushes and a vacuum cleaner while cleaning.

However, periodically it is recommended to rub the interpanel seams with mastic. Also, do not leave puddles on the floor for a long time. Even the highest quality waterproof laminate can not withstand this. If it so happened that the water remained on the floor for too long, or a large amount of water was spilled on the floor, simply wiping the puddle with a rag is not enough.

In the event of a "flood", it is necessary to wipe the floor dry, remove the laminate planks and allow the floor to dry (at least one week). Even if the laminate has begun to warp, don't panic! Send it to dry thoroughly. A good laminate will, in most cases, return to its former shape.

Does the laminate deteriorate from exposure to water?

waterproof special laminate for the kitchen from the category of waterproof;
linoleum;
ceramic tiles;
parquet board.

Laminate brands that are not afraid of water

Waterproof laminate is practically not afraid of moisture

Moisture resistant laminate

This is a kind of sealant that does not allow water to penetrate under the laminate, leaving its base always dry. But it is the base that primarily suffers from the water that has fallen on it.

Waterproof laminate

If moisture gets on the laminate, be sure to wipe it with a dry cloth

This type has a number of excellent properties and qualities:

First, it is thinner - its thickness is only 3.8 millimeters. Compared to traditional laminate, which is in the range of 8-12 millimeters.
Secondly, as mentioned above, this laminate is not afraid of hot water.
Thirdly, when carrying out installation work, the substrate is not needed.
Fourthly, AQUAPOL can be laid on any surface. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of the new material. It costs, however, a little more.

So, after everything that was said above, you will have to decide on the choice of material. And as you can see, there is a choice.

Laminate in the kitchen: pros and cons

Waterproof and moisture resistant laminate

How to turn an ordinary laminate into a waterproof one

Which laminate is better to choose for the kitchen

Structure and materials of waterproof slats

Laminate manufacturers

Color and texture of waterproof laminate

Strength class

How to install laminate flooring in the kitchen

Care rules

Laminate and underfloor heating

Conclusion

Laminate brands that are not afraid of water

Moisture resistant laminate

Waterproof laminate

What is the difference between a moisture resistant laminate and a conventional one?

Moisture-resistant and waterproof laminate: similarities and differences

Main classes

8 rules for choosing a moisture-resistant laminate

Rules for laying moisture resistant laminate

Moisture resistant laminate manufacturers

How much is?

Conclusion

Features of moisture resistant laminate

Waterproof and moisture resistant laminate

Choosing a moisture resistant laminate

Description

Load class

Properties

Price

Connecting locks

Appearance

Manufacturers and collections

How to recognize Chinese laminate

Features of moisture resistant laminate

Waterproof and moisture resistant laminate

Choosing a moisture resistant laminate

Description

Load class

Properties

Price

Connecting locks

Appearance

Manufacturers and collections

How to recognize Chinese laminate

Differences between moisture resistant laminate and waterproof

Rules for choosing a coating that is resistant to moisture

Laying

Care

Laminate brands that are not afraid of water

Moisture resistant laminate

Waterproof laminate

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