Waterproof laminate for the kitchen: it's all about high-quality coating. Moisture-resistant and waterproof laminate for the kitchen Which laminate is the most durable moisture-resistant

Does the laminate deteriorate from exposure to water?

When choosing flooring for the kitchen, residents multi-storey buildings begin to think about the fact that sometimes little troubles occur related to water. Either benevolent neighbors from above will start flooding, then the washing mixer hose will burst from time to time, then a pot or kettle will tip over with hot water. 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 laminate for the kitchen from the category of waterproof;
• linoleum;
• ceramic tiles;
• parquet board.

All these materials will look great on the kitchen floor, since the assortment, colors and manufacturers are widely represented on the modern market. building materials. 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 option for the kitchen, but it belongs to the category of cold materials, in addition, the fallen dishes usually break immediately, which most often upsets the hostess of the house.

Laminate brands that are not afraid of water

So we brought the conversation to the fact that better than laminate nothing to cover the floor 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.

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 conducting installation work underlay 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.

The kitchen is the place high humidity and dirt. The cooking area suffers the most, but various incidents can occur in the dining area. Therefore, the choice of cladding material is much more difficult than in other rooms. The material should not be afraid of moisture, temperature changes and at the same time should be easy to clean. Great - laminate for the kitchen is water resistant, but which one is better to choose? We will deal with this issue in the article.

Previously, laminate was used for finishing only residential premises, but not kitchens. Modern views can be used in such a room.
Laminate looks modern and stylish. Its texture can imitate other materials, while it will look expensive, not pretentious. And its cost is much cheaper than the price of many expensive cladding options.
For the kitchen, it is important to use materials that are easy to care for. Laminate is one of those. It is easy to care for him, enough wet cleaning. From its surface, you can wipe off not only dirt, but also stains. The laminate does not fade from the sun, it is not afraid of mechanical stress. Over time, the surface will not be erased, but will remain like new.

Laminate stays warm unlike tiles. It's always a pleasure to walk on it. It will not leave marks from shoes and boots. At the same time, it is easy to install it yourself, which saves you money on hiring craftsmen.

Is it possible to lay laminate in the kitchen? Yes. However, when choosing a laminate in the kitchen, it should be borne in mind that not every type of material is suitable for this room. Some types are not resistant to water and temperature extremes, which means they will become unusable after a short period of operation. Therefore, at the time of purchase, be sure to specify that you need the material in the kitchen.

Waterproof laminate, what is the difference from the usual

Laminate is made in several layers: protective, decorative, main and lower. The waterproof performance is higher. The base layer consists of a denser HDF board, as opposed to a conventional plank. This strengthens the laminate and it will not suffer from prolonged exposure to water. Additionally, the laminate is treated with special substances to repel moisture. In addition, the bar is coated with antifungal agents.

Laminate classes suitable for the kitchen

Laminate is divided into classes that differ in price and their characteristics. Cheaper types include types starting with the number 2: 21, 22, 23. They are also called household laminate. It is suitable for installation only in rooms without much load, such as a bedroom.
Laminate class starting with the number 3 is called commercial. It's the right one for the kitchen. Class 32, 33 and 34 are durable. But, accordingly, their price is much higher. But every ruble spent is worth it, such a laminate will serve you for several decades both in the kitchen and in the hallway.

Products of this class are not afraid of water. 34 class is the most durable. This floor will last you more than 20 years. It can be cleaned with any means. Grades 31-34 are made from 5 different layers. They will withstand contact with a small amount of water without deforming. However, as a precautionary measure, it is better to lay a small rug near the sink.

If you are still in doubt, you can working area tile, and use laminate for the rest of the space. If you do not like the combination option, then the laminate can be selected with imitation tiles, so the difference will not be very noticeable.

Moisture resistant or waterproof?

Many people think that they are one and the same. But this is not so at all. In the kitchen, water will often fall on the floor, so it is important to choose the right option.

Waterproof

Waterproof laminate for the kitchen is more expensive. However, it is able to withstand about five hours under direct exposure to water. This type does not need additional coverage. It is released completely ready. Even joints are processed during the manufacturing process. One of the inconveniences is if you somehow damage protective covering, then the bar will no longer have waterproof characteristics.

moisture resistant

Moisture-resistant laminate will withstand a small amount of water, but for a maximum of 15 minutes. Such a coating will need to be wiped dry immediately.

The weakest point is the seams. If water penetrates end-to-end, then there is a risk of deformation. Such material must be additionally treated with a sealant.

Despite the fact that the laminate is resistant to moisture, you should not forget that it cannot resist it all the time. Direct contact should not last more than 5 hours. This is especially true for hot water.
When buying, do not pay attention to sellers who promise complete waterproofness. Laminate is made from wood, no matter how you impregnate it, it cannot boast the same attitude to water as, for example, tiles. With prolonged contact, it will certainly deform.

Material prices

The cost of laminate is not so high compared to others facing materials, however, and he is not affordable. The simplest option, which is often used, is laying the usual budget option, and the seams at the joints are treated with sealant. This is of course an option, but later it will cost you more, because the material will not withstand such conditions and you will have to change it in a maximum of five years.
Waterproof and moisture-resistant laminate will cost more, but its characteristics allow it to last much longer. The cheapest moisture-resistant option will cost 350 rubles per 1 sq.m. The price of waterproof starts from 500 rubles. Saving in this case is not advisable, because spending money once on an expensive, but high-quality finish is better than changing the coating every few years.

How to choose

Even those people who like frequent interior changes usually do not touch the floor, so it is important that its coating last for many years. Laminate flooring in the kitchen good decision but don't skimp on its quality. The stronger the material, the more it will serve you.
The kitchen is a room that is often divided into two zones: working and dining. Therefore, if you have a small room, it is better to choose light-colored material. When splitting zones, use materials in the same color.

But a large space, on the contrary, needs to be filled with something. You can choose the option in saturated color. When equipped different zones, you can highlight one in a brighter version, and make the other neutral.
Wood is a natural and environmentally friendly material. It is he who forms the basis of the material. However, for moisture resistance, the planks are treated with various substances. And their composition may differ.

Check with sellers if the impregnation contains harmful substances within allowable rate. Demand certificates of quality and in the absence of such, leave the store.

For this type of product, documents on the quality of products must be required. Manufacturers put a safety label on the packaging. The safest is sold under the E-1 label.

Another reason to think about safety is the smoothness of the laminate. It is easy to slip on its surface, especially for those who have children. Their outdoor games can lead to injury. It is better to choose a relief laminate.

Based on your own budget, choose the right class of laminate. Of course, the best option is 34. But if you are careful and attentive, you can buy 33 or even 32. It may last less, but not by much.

And in case correct operation panels will serve you for several decades. In addition to the class, you should pay attention to the thickness. Panels with a thickness of at least 9 mm are suitable for the kitchen. And best of all 11 mm.
Pets can be an obstacle to laminate flooring. The fact is that it absorbs odors well and if you have an animal that is not accustomed to the tray, then the smell will not disappear soon. It is necessary to limit the access of the animal to the kitchen.

Laying laminate

Laminate installation is not difficult, the work can be done independently without the involvement of specialists. When buying material, you need to purchase a little more than required. In rooms with irregular shape this is especially true, since you will have to cut the slats.

Installation of the laminate occurs in two ways: on glue and castle. Now glue is practically not used. But the locking system is much more widespread. The planks just stick together. In case of damage to one, the floor can be disassembled and the defective plank replaced, and then assembled again. You can lay the material on any surface, but the surface must be relatively flat.

Laminate does not need daily cleaning. It does not accumulate dust, so just wipe it as it gets dirty. But it is better to squeeze the rag as much as possible. It should be slightly damp. When cleaning the floor, use special means for laminate.

So your floors will definitely not be harmed. Lay a mat next to the sink to protect it from water. Although the material can withstand furniture, but still, if you constantly move the table and chairs, it is better to equip the legs with special pads to protect the floor surface.

With the advent of moisture-resistant and waterproof types of laminate on the market, the scope of laminated floor covering and, consequently, 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. Actually, these are two different types material, and scope (as well as technical properties) are quite different.

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 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 thermal insulation characteristics laminate (however, as with 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 last years Class 43 laminated floorings 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 increased operational properties of their product, in particular the water resistance of the laminate.

8 rules for choosing a moisture-resistant laminate

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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).
5. 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.
6. Product warranty. For a good moisture-resistant laminate, the manufacturer gives a guarantee of 25-30 years or even a lifetime.
7. 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.
8. Products with smooth surface is 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.
• Laying the second row is carried out with a displacement of the transverse joints by 30-60 cm. interlock connections 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 located in Germany, Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden) and Belgium.

What is the price?

The cost of flooring plays 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.

Waterproof prices 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:

1. accurately determine the degree of humidity in the room;
2. choose the right type of coating, with the necessary and sufficient protection against water;
3. 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.

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 makes it easier for the consumer to choose and makes a mark on his product, for example, draws a drop. 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 Special attention pay 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 floor itself. simple 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 waterproof laminate needs very simple care. Since it has established itself as a reliable coating that can withstand most mechanical impacts, you can use brushes and a vacuum cleaner while cleaning.

However, periodically it is recommended to rub with mastic interpanel seams. 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. Good laminate, in most cases, will return to its former shape.