Laminate flooring is now available in not only many different styles, but also differs in terms of the way they fit together and are laid. This system is commonly known as the fitting profile. Generally speaking, most fitting profiles will function on a basic level as just a ‘tongue and groove’ system, where one side of each panel will interlock with the opposing side of the panel next to it. Many of these systems have been developed further to feature a locking mechanism within the tongue and groove system, which allows the panels to ‘click’ together, forming a greater and more secure interlock. In addition to the this ‘clic system’, some types of laminate flooring also require the use of adhesive to further strengthen the bond between the boards. A general flooring adhesive, available from all good tile and flooring specialists will do the job nicely.
Popular laminate flooring fitting profiles include the ‘twin clic’, ‘top clic’, and the ‘clic 2 clic’ systems. Whilst these systems vary in their method of interlocking, the method of assembly is more or less the same. Here are a few handy tips to help with interlocking fitting profiles:
- don’t forget before you begin interlocking the boards to ensure you have spacers in place between your first board and the wall of your room. Spacers typically allow an approximate 10mm gap to permit the flooring to expand and contract with changes in humidity and temperature.
- your second board should be laid at the narrow end of your first board. It is recommended to hold the board you’re laying at approximately 45 degrees from the board that is already laid allow the tongue to fill the groove. Gently lower the new board until it is flush with the first – you may hear a ‘click’ at the stage, which will signify a good bond between the boards.
- use a beater block with a hammer to encourage a better connection between the boards. If you have run out of room to use a beater block because you’ve reached the end of a row, a pulling bar will do the same job.
- upon reaching the end of a row, try to avoid cutting boards any smaller than half their width.
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