Everything about laminate flooring in the kitchen - from selection to installation. Choosing a waterproof laminate for the kitchen The best waterproof laminate for the kitchen

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Finishing the floor with laminate is a popular solution in both modern and classic interiors.
But many are afraid to use this coating in the kitchen. What if you want to add a beautiful texture to the interior without losing practicality? What should a laminate flooring be like for a kitchen: how to choose a coating design and protect the kitchen floor from moisture, reviews, price review and photos in the interior.

Is it possible to install laminate flooring in the kitchen?

Yes, if you choose the right type and class of coating, prepare the base well and protect the joints from moisture.

The best floor is moisture-resistant class 33, 8-12 mm thick, with a durable top protective layer, matte, slightly embossed, non-slip surface. After installation, the joints of the panels must be treated with a special water-repellent compound.

The lamella consists of four layers. The main one is a moisture-resistant HDF or fiberboard board. Pattern: Egger

What to look for when choosing

1. Wear resistance class. The higher it is, the greater the load the coating can withstand. Laminate of at least 32, and preferably 33, is suitable for the kitchen, corridor and hallway. Without force majeure, it will last at least 15 years without losing its appearance. Class 34 is even stronger, but more expensive. In most cases, there is no need to overpay for it.

2. Level of moisture resistance. Make sure that the laminate you are considering for your kitchen has moisture protection. Look in the description for markings with drops of water, a tap, the words water resistance, waterproof, aqua block, aqua protect, etc.

3. Type of locking connection. For glueless floor coverings there are two of them: Click (collapsible system) and Lock (snap lock). Click is considered more reliable and convenient: the floor will last longer, it is easier to install (even a beginner can handle it), and the base can have a difference of up to 3 mm per linear meter. Coverings with a Lock system are cheaper, but less reliable, more difficult to install (it’s better to hire a professional) and require a perfectly level base.

4. Manufacturer and guarantees. Do not take cheap laminate unknown manufacturers on the construction market. If your budget is limited, take a look at inexpensive coatings from well-known brands or semi-commercial linoleum with a board pattern and wood texture.

5. Thickness.

The thicker the laminated parquet, the stronger, more durable and more expensive it is. For the kitchen, hallway and corridor, choose a coating no thinner than 9 mm.

6. Presence of a chamfer. It is believed that laminate without chamfer is better in the kitchen (dirt and moisture do not linger in the recesses). To make the floor look more realistic, manufacturers came up with an optical chamfer. The panels along the edges are made a little darker in color, visually highlighting the contours of each board.

7. Formaldehyde emission class. Material marked E0 or E1 is considered safe for health. 8. Sound absorption level. In some species

expensive laminate There is a sound-absorbing layer 1-2 mm thick (Sound Protect, etc.). But most coatings do not have it, and the substrate will have to be purchased separately.

9. Anti-slip surface.

For the kitchen, choose a rough, textured laminate: it’s easy to slip on a smooth one and get injured.

Pros and cons of laminate flooring in the kitchen
Advantages
A high-quality floor is not afraid of impacts, scratches, cracks, temperature changes and does not fade in the sun. It is easy to clean, abrasion resistant and stain resistant.
Laminate panels are warmer than ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware - they are more pleasant to walk on barefoot. Some types of this coating allow you to create a heated floor in the kitchen. Unlike linoleum, there are no dents left on it from the legs of the refrigerator and kitchen furniture. It is valued for its similarity to natural wood flooring and its variety of designs. Thrifty owners he attracts

at an affordable price

, and practical - ease of installation. Flaws

It may swell and swell.

If a hot water pipe bursts while you're away, there's a high chance that the kitchen floor will have to be replaced. Solution. Treat the seams between the boards with a special sealant (for example, Hydrokit, Click guard, etc.). This will not save you from a flood, but under normal conditions the risk of damaging the coating will be less. Laminate can be moisture-resistant or water-resistant. That's two

different types

coverings. They are made from different materials and behave differently when in contact with water.

Waterproof laminate is insured against such troubles. Its base is made of plastic, not fiberboard. But the choice of design for waterproof coatings is limited, and their price is higher.

“Clicking” and loud knocking. Laminate floors are often criticized for noise - the characteristic ringing sound from footsteps, pet claws and fallen objects. If there is no backing between the coating and the base, the air gap between them creates a drum effect. If the floor is also poorly leveled, the slats begin to creak over time.

Solution. A sound-absorbing substrate made of cork or expanded polystyrene helps to avoid problems. It absorbs steps, smoothes out uneven ground surfaces and reduces impact noise by approximately half.

Scratches and chips. Laminate is not as capricious as massive or parquet board. But serious damage may also appear on its surface, as in the photo below:

An improperly hung door left a deep mark on the floor.

Solution. You can buy special wax pencils to match the color of your floor and disguise the defect.

Laminate and warm floor

Many manufacturers offer coatings under which a heated floor system can be installed. But under a number of conditions.

Laminated parquet cannot be laid on electrical system floor heating. Due to rapid and uneven heating, the planks may become deformed and gaps will appear between them. It is better to use water or infrared film heated floors.
Increase the floor temperature gradually. The main thing is not to allow the surface to heat up more than 27-28 degrees. You will have to install temperature sensors and a rheostat for smooth temperature control.
During heating season you will have to use a humidifier. To prevent the laminate from drying out, the humidity in the kitchen should be at least 50%.

Design options

Board size
The most popular laminate format for the kitchen is a rectangular plank with a length of 1200-1380 mm and a width of 190-200 mm. But that's it large manufacturers They offer collections with longer or shorter, narrower or wider elements.

Egger

With or without chamfer
Wood laminate sometimes has a chamfer - beveled edges. When connecting the panels, grooves are formed - they emphasize the similarity of the panels with the floor made of solid board or natural piece parquet. The planks can be chamfered on only two sides (marked 2V) or on all four sides (4V).

An example of a laminate with a double-sided chamfer in a kitchen interior

Number of lanes
A “wooden” floor may have one or more stripes in a block. Examples are in the photo below:

Single-strip laminate - one pattern runs across the entire width of the board

Two-lane - the die is “divided” in half

Multi-strip laminate flooring in the kitchen combined with the living room

Decors

Tree
Modern laminate imitates wood or board different breeds: traditional oak, ash, pine, walnut, chestnut, exotic merbau, wenge, zebrawood, etc.

The accent floor will steal all the attention

Oak laminate has the most variations - natural, bleached, stained, aged, tinted, varnished or oiled...

Arizona Oak

Oil white

Balmoral Oak

Colonial

In inexpensive collections, the pattern on the dies is the same type. Expensive coverage it looks more natural: there are more boards with different patterns, there are transitions from light to dark, and the image is so clear that you can see the pores of the wood.

The calm colors of the laminate are perfect for kitchens in both classic and modern styles.

Tile, stone or concrete
Laminate under tiles or stone (slate, travertine, limestone, etc.) - a good choice, if you like the look of tiles in the interior, but don’t want to put up with such shortcomings as an eternally icy floor and guaranteed breakable dishes.

IN modern interior in the loft, minimalism or hi-tech style, concrete laminate will fit perfectly (available from Kronotex, Alloc, Pergo, Parador, Balterio, etc.).

Quantity calculation

Buy flooring with a margin of at least 5%. If the floor gets damaged, you can easily replace the damaged part.

If you plan to lay diagonally or are going to do the installation yourself, take 12-15% more material.

For a kitchen-living room of complex shape, for example, with a bay window or a large number of corners, focus on a margin of 15-17%.

Laying nuances

If you don’t want problems with the floor, follow the instructions exactly: each manufacturer of laminate flooring gives detailed recommendations for its installation.
Laminate can be placed on concrete screed, wooden floor, ceramic tiles, glued linoleum. The main thing is that the base is dry (humidity less than 2%) and level (the height difference is no more than 2 mm per meter for panels 6-7 mm thick and 3 mm per meter for planks thicker than 8 mm).
The joints between the panels are less noticeable if you place the slats in the direction of the light from the window.

For a large kitchen or kitchen-living room best option- a combination of ceramic floor tiles in the “wet” area and laminate in the rest of the space

Wooden floors pair beautifully with patchwork tiles

Prices and manufacturers

Inexpensive class 33 laminate flooring in Moscow online stores can be purchased from 400-450 rubles for square meter. A moisture-resistant finish suitable for heated floors costs an average of 700-1500 rubles per square meter. European-made coatings will cost you from 1000 to 2500 rubles per meter.

Which laminate collections are suitable for the kitchen?

Tarkett/Russia: Robinson, Estetica, Pilot, Woodstock Family, Riviera, Artisan
Kronostar/Russia: Salzburg, Symbio, Synchro-Tec, De Facto
Kronospan/Belarus and Russia: Titan Prestige, Forte Classic, Quick Style
Kronotex/Germany: Amazone, Ribusto, Mammut
Ritter/Russia: Nefertiti, Charlemagne
Egger/Germany: Classic 8-33 or 11-33, Classic Aqua
Quick-Step/Belgium and Russia: Classic, Arte, Impressive, Impressive Ultra
Imperial/China: Lux, Ibiza, Lumia, Exclusive
Classen/Germany: Extreme, Impression, Natural Prestige, Force
Pergo/Sweden: Original Excellence, Sensation

The kitchen is almost the most important part of the house. It serves as a gathering place for the whole family during dinner, when the table is filled with various delicacies from the hostess. The kitchen is the pride of the family, their symbol of hospitality and warmth, because it is not for nothing that people gather in this place most often, but in order for the kitchen to have a decent appearance, it is worth working on its arrangement.

A particularly important part is the floor; it should be given special careful attention. How to choose laminate flooring for the kitchen? Read on.

Why is laminate so preferred?

How to choose laminate for the kitchen? This is simply a phenomenal material in the field of construction and improvement! It can replicate the appearance of any type of wood, many rocks and even ceramics, for example, laminate flooring for kitchen tiles.

Only a professional eye can distinguish laminate from the above materials. It will qualitatively repeat the relief of the desired surface, no matter what it is (even fabric). It may have so many advantages, but the main thing is that it is cheaper than natural materials!

What parameters are taken into account when choosing a laminate?

How to choose laminate for the kitchen without knowing a number of criteria on which the main selection is made? No way. The criteria must be known and taken into account!

The first parameter is wear resistance

The kitchen is one of the most visited rooms in the house. The floor is exposed to rubbing shoes and over time loses its appearance and structure.

There are 2 classes of laminate in wear resistance:

Accordingly, the higher the class, the higher its price. If you take laminate with class 21 or 22, then it will last only about 8 years. But then it will have to be replaced, and this can be done with your own hands if there is a man in the house.

Classes numbered 21, 22, 23 - for masonry in residential premises. Classes numbered 31, 32, 33 - for premises in which there is a lot of traffic.
Class 3 laminates are most often used in places common use: restaurants, cafes, hotels and offices, where there is daily a large number of Human.

The second parameter is moisture resistance

This is very important indicator, since the kitchen is almost on par with the bathroom and boiler room in terms of the amount of liquid spilled on the floor.

If we evaluate laminate in relation to water, then they are divided into:

Moisture resistant.
Water resistant.

Laminate consists of a tightly compressed wood base, on top of which a moisture-resistant polymer layer is applied. The laminate itself does not allow water to pass through, but the joints between the tiles can. If moisture gets under the laminate, it causes it to swell and deform.

Like everything that exists, laminate flooring also has its downsides.

How to choose the right laminate for the kitchen if there are a number of shortcomings that would not later cause disappointment in the material?

There are few disadvantages, but for some this amount is enough to scare away the desire to buy it:

Sensitivity to moisture. The laminate itself is not sensitive, but its seams are a very weak point. These are the ones you should pay special attention to, because once moisture gets under the laminate, it can soon cause irreversible consequences.
Low sound insulation. Not suitable for construction if there is a recording studio and a quiet office on different floors.
Formaldehyde resin content. To briefly describe formaldehyde, it is a strong poison and preservative that negatively affects the life of organisms.

Final word

The material has performed well on the market and is in great demand among buyers! Perfect for any home, it will add comfort and save time on installation.

Now we are absolutely sure that the questions “How to choose laminate for the kitchen?” or “Which laminate flooring is best for the kitchen?” We answered fully and informatively.

The kitchen is the most visited place in the house. The floor in this room is usually subject to all sorts of damage and high loads: it is often scratched, dirty, dropped food, spilled water, broken dishes. Therefore, many people ask the question: is laminate flooring necessary in the kitchen? Yes, we can say that it is possible to install this flooring in the kitchen, but you just need to find out which laminate to lay in the kitchen.

Features of laminate flooring for the kitchen

When we're talking about In the kitchen, accordingly, the requirements for the floor covering become a little stricter than for the floor in other rooms. In addition to constant walking and loads from furniture, water and various liquids often get on the floor in the kitchen; wet cleaning is often done using various detergents.

Previously, we didn’t have a choice of what to put on the floor in the kitchen - usually it was linoleum, which suited everyone, but also quite quickly lost its presentation. Over time, waterproof laminate flooring for the bathroom and kitchen has proven itself to be excellent. With the advent of this laminate, the choice of finishing materials for the floor has expanded, which was previously limited exclusively to linoleum and tiles. Laminate with increased water resistance appeared thanks to modern technologies, as well as the efforts of manufacturers to make such products universal.

A moisture-resistant laminate is a “pie” of several layers responsible for color, warmth and, of course, the water resistance of the base. Laminate can imitate various materials, so it’s not difficult to choose the right option for kitchens in any color, style and design style. You can buy laminate flooring for the kitchen to match tiles, all kinds of textures and types of wood, imitating a natural stone or simply with a plain smooth surface. Unlike the materials that it imitates, laminate often has a lower cost, which is quite a significant advantage.

It is also impossible not to say that laminate is again one of the most simple materials, because it does not require additional floor preparation. If the floor surface is relatively flat, then the laminate can even be laid on the old floor covering (linoleum, carpet, wooden floor or parquet). Also, laminate, or rather some of its types, can, if desired, be used in a kitchen in which heated floor equipment will be planned.
The convenience of installation is the speed of assembly of the floor - the elements of the laminate are simply snapped together, respectively, such flooring can be disassembled when moving and taken with you. But if you have not yet decided which laminate to choose for your kitchen, please note that there is also a gluing assembly, when the distance between the parts of such a laminate is filled with special glue.

When caring for laminate flooring, manufacturers recommend wiping it with a dry or damp cloth. But it is still safer to use special accessories and products. A large number of manufacturers offer special proprietary compositions that make it possible to mask scratches on the coating, remove stains, while maintaining the attractive appearance of the laminate for a long time.

If you use laminate flooring in the kitchen, place it near the sink. small sizes a rubberized mat, with its help you will insure yourself from injuries, that is, you will not slip, and the laminate will protect you from moisture. To prevent chips and scratches on the laminated coating, you need to use felt pads for the legs of the refrigerator and kitchen furniture.

Laminate strength indicator

Before choosing a laminate for your kitchen, it is strongly recommended to pay attention to its strength. Laminate is divided into strength classes. If this is your first time encountering this concept, then it will be quite difficult for you to understand the numbers and their meanings. Therefore, we will help you.

The strength class of a laminate is always indicated by a two-digit number. Laminate flooring whose strength class begins with the number 2 (that is, 21, 22, 23) is called “household.” It is usually used at home, where there is no heavy load. Laminate of the 21st class is recommended for use in bedrooms, 22nd - in the nursery, 23rd - in the dining room and living room.

And if the class of the laminated coating begins with the number 3 (strength class 31, 32, 33), then it will be a “commercial” laminate, which is characterized by increased strength. In this case, you can not be afraid of a small water leak, since with a higher class the likelihood that such a coating will cope with water increases. For the kitchen, for example, you need to choose models starting from class 32, which can even be used in enterprises.

Laminate class 32 - 33 - five-layer and consists of the following layers: decorative layer of paper, acrylic resin, moisture-resistant film, HDF base (high density wood boards) and moisture-resistant film.

Laminated boards of a lower class 21 - 23 have only 3 layers, which is why they are less durable, and are intended for rooms where there is little traffic, for example, a bedroom. This coating lasts approximately 5 - 7 years. And commercial special flooring is suitable for offices with direct access from the street, indoor swimming pools, laundries; these types of laminate flooring at home can last 30 years.

But if the above arguments do not convince you, you have not yet decided which laminate is best for the kitchen, you are afraid of a flood, but you still want to install laminate, then you can install a combined floor. In the area where a leak is most likely to occur, for example, under the furniture, it is better to lay tiles and fill the rest with laminate. In order for the laminate to last as long as possible, it needs to be washed. by special means and a well-wrung out cloth.

Moisture resistance and water resistance of laminate

A bathroom is a room where a wooden floor or regular laminate will quickly deteriorate due to the constant presence of moisture. But the kitchen is still considered dry and warm room. But frequent cleaning, spilled liquids that may contain aggressive detergents or fat, increase the humidity in this room. These factors will not cause any harm to your kitchen laminate if you choose the right flooring.

There are two types of laminate for the kitchen - moisture-resistant and water-resistant. The ability to resist the effects of fat and moisture and greater strength of such a laminate is given by a special impregnation of the middle layer of wood board.

Moisture-resistant laminate can withstand falling splashes and drops of water. It also easily withstands small puddles. When using such a coating, you need to remember that it can effectively resist all kinds of liquids for 15 to 20 minutes. When installing moisture-resistant laminate boards, it is necessary to seal the seams with special means.

Waterproof laminate can work real miracles. For him, being in the water for 360 minutes is not a problem at all. This means there is no need to worry about a spilled glass of water or juice. This type of laminate can be used when installing in bathrooms. Docking units do not require additional processing during installation, since they are processed at the factory.

Whatever laminate you like, remember that even the most expensive and high-quality coating cannot withstand immersion in liquid, especially hot liquid, for more than 6 hours. Moisture-resistant laminate is supplied to our country by the Austrian company Egger and the Swiss company Vintage. Also known is the moisture-resistant laminate for kitchens from Germany Ecoflooring. The waterproof laminate is supplied by the Norwegian company Alloc, the French company Epi and the Austrian company Kaindl.

When purchasing a laminate, you need to pay attention to the fact that there is no “absolutely water-repellent” or “waterproof” laminate offered. The basis of the laminate board is wood. No matter how the wood fibers are compressed, they can still absorb water. Also, if the protective film is damaged, the wood will become saturated with moisture.

Kitchen laminate price

There are several options for kitchen laminate on the market, depending on their resistance to water and price. You can buy regular inexpensive laminate and seal the joints between the panels with a special sealant. This option is considered the cheapest, but not very reliable, because such a coating will not particularly be able to resist frequent splashes.

The second solution is to purchase a moisture-resistant laminate. It, of course, costs a little more, but has protection against high humidity and splashes. But it’s still better not to spill water on such a laminate.

And the third option, the most expensive and most effective, is to lay a waterproof laminate in the kitchen. This coating is not dangerous from spilled water or splashes. But even here there are limitations: spilled water must be wiped up as soon as possible. The price of a laminate depends on its class and type, various additional characteristics, such as wear resistance and the reputation of the manufacturing company.

Price of laminate flooring for kitchen with high level moisture resistance ranges from 350 rubles per square meter and above, waterproof coatings are more expensive, their cost is from 500 rubles. Remember that when choosing this material you should not save, because only high-quality laminate can last quite a long time without upsetting its owner with its appearance.

Floor coverings are not changed very often, like, for example, wallpaper, so there is a desire to buy a waterproof laminate that will last forever, while taking into account the style of the house, personal preferences and fashion. Designers also recommend investing heavily in flooring. good quality, while spending the maximum amount of money you can afford. The cost of moisture-resistant laminate depends on the collection of old or new, its manufacturer.

It is necessary to pay attention to one more professional point: the larger the room, the more expensive and beautiful the floor should be. For example, in large kitchen you need a waterproof laminate under the tiles, and in a small one, you can make a color accent on the walls, while choosing a neutral shade for the floor. Remember that the same type of floor covering throughout the room expands it, and if the floor is divided into functional areas and thresholds of different colors, the room visually narrows.

The following arguments speak in favor of using a waterproof laminate instead of a wooden board: very capricious natural wood (oak and other exotic wood) can behave unpredictably under normal humidity conditions. And cracks in the floorboard will not make the interior beautiful.

A large number of people know that laminate flooring consists of a wood base that has undergone industrial processing. It may also contain a substance such as formaldehyde, the content of which in large quantities can have a negative effect on our body. Remember that a certain amount of formaldehyde is in wooden doors, furniture, as well as in many other products.

To choose the most best laminate for the kitchen and to find out how safe the purchased laminate is, you need to carefully look at the corresponding labeling. If the laminate packaging is marked E-1, this indicates that the laminate contains the smallest amount of formaldehyde, which has virtually no effect on human health.

Almost every material, along with its advantages, has various disadvantages that must be remembered. The main disadvantage of laminate flooring for the kitchen is its fear of prolonged exposure to moisture. For example, if there was a water leak in the kitchen at a time when no one was home, and you did not see it soon, then, of course, there are risks that you will have to completely replace the laminate in this room.

You can also note as another drawback the rather ringing sound of steps on such a coating. This problem can be solved by using a mat, placing it in an area of frequent movement and also using shoes with soft soles.

Now you know which laminate to lay in the kitchen. You can choose a moisture-resistant or water-resistant coating, depending on its level of resistance to water. Be sure to take into account its strength indicator, which is determined by the class of the laminate. And, of course, you should focus on the manufacturers and the price of this flooring.

Many owners, when planning a renovation, decide for themselves whether laminate flooring is suitable for the kitchen and hallway. In these rooms, the flooring bears a special load. Therefore, it is important that floors are strong and durable.

What makes laminated coatings stand out from their analogues?

In order to decide whether laminate is suitable as a covering for the kitchen and hallway, you should find out what it is. The laminated coating consists of several layers: the main one, which plays the role of load-bearing, decorative, protective, and lower reinforcing. The basis of the coating is chipboard or MDF. They can have different strength and rigidity, which affects the class of the future product. The amount of wood in the material determines the presence of voids and, accordingly, the density. How denser material, the fewer voids there are and the lower the ability to accumulate moisture.

The decorative layer is a thick paper that determines the color, texture and pattern of the material. The top layer is protective - it is impregnated with an insoluble chemical that increases strength. For a kitchen, it is important that the floor is not only durable, but also shock-resistant, as falls are possible. heavy objects. To increase strength, manufacturers add fillers to the protective layer, which increase the strength characteristics. If you don’t know how to choose laminate flooring for the kitchen and hallway, pay special attention to the following factors:

1. Wear resistance class;
2. Color and pattern;
3. Moisture resistant.

We will discuss each of these factors that influence the choice of covering for the kitchen and hallway below.

Selecting a coating based on wear resistance class

Laminate coatings are divided into 6 resistance classes and are marked with two numbers. The first means for which rooms the coating is intended, and the second means the degree of load: the higher the number, the greater the load the laminate can withstand. The following classes are intended for residential premises:

21 – for the bedroom and office;
22 – for the nursery and living room;
23 – for the kitchen, corridor, hallway.

The higher the class, the greater cross-country ability it is designed for. For commercial premises, classes starting with 3 are intended:

31 – conference room, small office;
32 – office, boutique;
33 – gym, warehouse, restaurant.

For the kitchen and hallway you can choose class 23 or 31. These coatings are designed for heavy loads, are abrasion resistant, mechanical damage, withstand impacts.

Moisture resistance – which will be better for the kitchen?

Based on exposure to moisture, laminate is divided into moisture-resistant and water-resistant. Both types are covered with special chemicals, which do not allow moisture to pass through and do not allow the material to swell. There are some differences between the coatings that you need to know when choosing laminate flooring for your kitchen or hallway. The surface and ends of the moisture-resistant laminate panels are treated with special compounds. The coating is easy to care for. It can be washed using household products for washing. But it is necessary to ensure that they do not remain on the floor. for a long time puddles.

Water penetrates between the panels; over time, they gain moisture and swell, which leads to deformation of the top layer. The coating loses its attractive appearance. To improve the hermetic properties, we recommend treating the joints of moisture-resistant laminates with special water-repellent wax-based compounds. It is the places where the panels connect that are most vulnerable. These compounds can mask scratches and remove stains, giving the coating an attractive appearance. If you constantly treat the seams with mastics, then the moisture-resistant laminate can be used for the hallway and kitchen.

The waterproof coating option is not afraid of puddles, even if neighbors flood or a pipe bursts, the floor will not be damaged after that. In its manufacture are used latest developments. It was possible to create a laminate that is 100% impervious to moisture. For its base, not wood material is used, but a plastic plate. A panel made of this material does not absorb moisture, so it does not swell and does not lose its beautiful appearance, even if it is placed in water for a day. Therefore, floors made from such panels can be used in rooms with high humidity: bathrooms, kitchens, etc.

Waterproof glue is applied to the surface of the plastic plate, on top of which a decorative layer is glued. A high-strength water-repellent polymer is applied on top. Thus, a coating is obtained that is not afraid of water and resistant to mechanical damage. The cost of waterproof laminate is twice as high as moisture-resistant laminate, but in the event of a flood you will not have to replace the flooring.

How to decide on a pattern and color?

If the question arises, what color laminate to choose for the kitchen and which one for the hallway, then the variety of types of coating gives room for imagination. There are a large number of options that imitate natural materials: natural stone (granite, marble), wood (oak, alder, wenge). An option for ceramic tiles is also possible.

When choosing a laminate that imitates natural wood, you can play with the texture of the material.

There are several types of texture:

with simple embossing;
with embossing in register;
brushing;
with Chrome Zone effect.

With simple embossing on top layer grooves are pressed that imitate various types of wood. Contamination is not so noticeable on such a coating, so it does not require frequent washing. The grooves on the embossed register match the pattern of the wood carved into the surface of the panel. This coating has a stylish look. When brushing, embossing is combined with painting, after which a second protective layer is applied. This technology increases the abrasion resistance of the coating.

Chrome zone is a method in which the grooves are decorated with a chromium alloy. The panels acquire a matte-glossy surface and additional strength. This laminate floor looks very impressive.

Pros and cons of lamella flooring

To choose the right laminated flooring for the kitchen and hallway, you need to know its pros and cons. The advantages of laminate include the following:

beautiful appearance;
wide selection of colors and patterns;
abrasion resistance;
strength;
resistance to mechanical damage;
hygiene;
ease of care;
affordable price;
Possibility of use as a floor covering when installing a “warm floor”;
simplicity and ease of installation.

Despite a number of advantages, laminate has disadvantages that, if desired, can be made less noticeable:

sensitivity to moisture;
poor sound insulation;
formaldehyde resins in the composition.

Waterproof laminate does not require additional protection from moisture. The weak point of its other types is the joints, because prolonged exposure to moisture may cause the material to swell. If you properly care for the coating and apply protective compounds, it will last a long time. If it gets too wet, a laminate floor cannot be restored. In this case, it will have to be changed completely. Laminate flooring has low sound insulation, which manifests itself in too loud steps. To slightly reduce audibility, you should use soft slippers.

Laminate, in addition to being waterproof, like many Decoration Materials, may contain formaldehyde resins, which are hazardous to human health. When purchasing coverage, pay special attention to the markings . The minimum content of formaldehyde resins is indicated by the E-1 icon. If it is present, then you can safely purchase the material, since in this case nothing threatens your health.

Which lamellas to choose and how to lay them?

To the question whether it is possible to lay laminate flooring in the kitchen, the answer will be positive if you take into account the characteristics inherent in the laminate and select a coating that should be:

waterproof, with a high strength class, environmentally friendly, easy to install and maintain, with an antistatic coating.

When choosing a pattern, consider the size of the room. You should not choose a large picture for small kitchen or hallway, since the depth of the pattern will be lost. Also, dark colors are not suitable for small rooms, as they will visually make the kitchen smaller. Nuances of laying panels:

1. Most economical option– lay panels along the longest wall. In this case, the consumption is less and installation is faster.
2. In a narrow room, it is better to lay it perpendicularly long wall, this will visually expand the room.
3. The most effective and beautiful styling is diagonal. In this case, the size of the covering does not matter, since it will look harmonious on the floor of any area. The disadvantage of this method is high consumption material.

Two types of fastening are possible: locking and adhesive. The advantage of the lock is the ease of installation and the possibility of dismantling. The covering laid using the interlocking method can be disassembled and installed in another room. The adhesive version is more airtight. Laminate flooring in the kitchen can be laid on any flat surface, including linoleum, wooden floors, carpet covering with low pile.

The laminated coating is antistatic, so it does not attract dust. To maintain daily cleanliness, it is enough to wipe the floor with a well-wrung out cloth. Heavy stains can be washed using a large amount of water, after which the floor should be wiped dry. To increase the moisture resistance of a laminated floor, the joints should be regularly treated with special waterproof compounds. Special mastics can mask scratches and renew the appearance of the floor. If you don’t skimp and buy a waterproof laminate with a high strength class, install it correctly and use it carefully, it will last for many years.

Or you can opt for a coating that imitates a wooden board. But traditionally it is more often used for corridors and rooms, forgetting that it will perfectly fulfill its tasks in the kitchen. This coating will help add a new texture to the kitchen interior. It is practical and easy to care for. Let's consider how to choose laminate for the kitchen, why it is better to choose vinyl (PVC) laminate. what characteristics should you pay attention to, what advantages and disadvantages does such a coating have?

What coating is suitable for the kitchen?

If you cover the floor with laminate to match the tiles in the kitchen, you can ensure that the coating will be in harmony with common interior. The floor will not be as cold as a tile floor. In order for the coating to adhere well and serve for a long time, it is important to properly prepare the base. Since there is high humidity in the kitchen, joints should be protected from it. For the same reason, it is better to take vinyl (PVC) laminate. Choose class 33 waterproof laminate. Its thickness is 8-12 mm. It has a slightly embossed matte surface with a protective layer. Thanks to it, the coating is protected from moisture and slipping. When the installation is completed, the joints of the panels must be treated with a water-repellent agent.

How to choose

When purchasing laminate flooring for the kitchen, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

Wear resistance. The higher the coating class, the greater the load it can be subjected to. It is better to choose class 32-33. It is capable of serving up to 15 years. You can also buy class 34, but it costs more.
Moisture resistance. It is important to buy a laminate that is moisture resistant. Such coatings have markings (faucet, drop of water, phrases waterproof, water resistance, etc.).
Connection type. There are two connection options for floor coverings that are connected without the use of glue: Click (prefabricated), Lock (lock that snaps into place). Click is more reliable. This type of flooring is easier to install and lasts longer. Lock is not such a reliable system, but products with it are cheaper. This type of flooring is more difficult to install. A perfectly level base will be required.
Thickness. Thicker laminate has high strength. It is durable, strong, but more expensive. For kitchen suitable coating not less than 9 mm.
Guarantees. Manufacturer. Give preference to products famous manufacturer. Even the cheapness of such products does not justify such a choice. It's better to search inexpensive coating, but from a well-known manufacturer. Large stores regularly hold promotions and sell goods at a discount.
Chamfer. In the kitchen it is better to install laminate flooring without a chamfer. Some manufacturers use an optical bevel that creates a contour on each board.
Formaldehyde emission. Choose markings E0, E1. This is a safe coating.
Surface. For the kitchen you need to choose an anti-slip surface. The surface of this laminate is rough. You should not take a smooth laminate. It's easy to slip and even get injured in the kitchen. This is especially dangerous for children.
Noise absorption. Some coatings have a layer to absorb sound. Its thickness is 1-2 mm. If it is not there, you need to buy a special substrate.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

This coating is warm. You can even walk on it with bare feet. Some options are suitable for creating warm floors.
He is not afraid of damage or temperature changes. It washes well and is resistant to stains and abrasion.
This coating looks like wood. You can choose the design. Laminate is relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
There are no traces left on the laminate from the legs of furniture or refrigerator.

Flaws:

Moisture may cause it to swell and swell. It is especially dangerous to fill the coating with hot water. After such emergencies, sometimes it is necessary to change the floor. To reduce the effect of moisture on the coating, the joints are covered with sealant. By the way, laminate can be waterproof or moisture resistant. It's not the same thing. Different materials are used for their manufacture. A protective layer is applied to the moisture-resistant coating. Water will not penetrate through it. The locks are treated with a water-repellent compound. If there is a lot of water, it will still leak out. Because of this, the coating is deformed and the seams swell. However, it will not be possible to fix the floor. It will need to be redone. The liquid must be wiped off as quickly as possible. Waterproof laminate is protected from this. Its base is made of plastic. It costs more and has design limitations. If you need a moisture-resistant durable floor, it is better to take vinyl (PVC) laminate.
Makes a ringing sound, “clicking”. The sound of walking on laminate flooring is very loud. This happens when there is no substrate. The sound intensifies, like a drum. If the floor is uneven, a squeak may also appear. To fix the problem, you need to use a substrate to absorb sound. Such a seal will help absorb stomping, smooth out unevenness, and immediately reduce the sound by half.
Chips, scratches. Laminate is more durable than parquet or solid wood, but damage can also occur on it. A wax pencil will help solve the problem. It needs to be matched to the shade of the floor. You can buy a pencil at a hardware store.

Warm floor

There are types under which you can install a floor heating system. In this case, certain conditions must be met:

The temperature needs to be raised slowly, not immediately. Do not heat above 28 degrees. You will need temperature sensors and a rheostat to regulate the temperature smoothly.
We cannot coat a system with electrical heating. It heats unevenly, causing the planks to become deformed and cracks to form. It is better to use infrared or water heated floors.
You will need a humidifier. It is needed to protect the laminate from drying out. Humidity needs to be no less than 50%.

Design solution

It is better to choose a rectangular board (length 1200-1380mm, width 190-200mm).

A chamfer is a beveled edge. For the kitchen it is better not to take a board with a chamfer. Moisture and dirt will accumulate in it. It is better to take a board with a virtual (drawn) chamfer.

It is better to take a board with stripes. They bring her closer appearance To wooden board. For single-strip boards, the pattern is located across the entire width of the boards. For two-lane ones, the stripes divide the die in half. There are also multi-band options.

Tree. There are imitations of almost any breed. It is better to choose a calm color that will not be too noticeable. Otherwise, the entire emphasis in the interior will shift to the floor. Inexpensive products are covered with the same type of pattern. It is better to choose a slightly more expensive coating. It looks more natural. Laminate flooring with calm colors is chosen for kitchens in a modern or classic style.
Stone, tile or concrete. Laminate flooring under tiles in the kitchen will look organic and impressive. The main thing is to choose a color that will harmonize with the furniture and will not attract undue attention. For a high-tech, minimalist interior, a concrete-look board is suitable.

Don't skimp on quantity. It is necessary to provide a reserve of at least 5% of the total kitchen area. It will come in handy if you need to replace a damaged section of the floor.

If the installation will be done diagonally or you will do it yourself, the margin should be increased to 15%. If the kitchen has a complex shape or has many corners, you should also take it with a margin of 15%.

Before installation, carefully read the instructions and follow the advice exactly. Each manufacturer gives recommendations.
You can lay laminate on a wooden floor, screed, linoleum, ceramic tiles. It is important that the base is dry and even.
To make the joints invisible, the planks should be laid in the direction in which the light from the window comes.
You can combine tiles in the wet area of the kitchen with laminate in the dry area. This is ideal for a kitchen with a large area. A wooden floor will go well with patchwork tiles.

So, we told you how to choose laminate flooring for the kitchen, how to lay it correctly, and what you should pay special attention to.

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