Waterproof laminate for the kitchen: all about quality coating

Moisture and water resistant coatings are ideal for kitchen applications. Floor covering manufacturers offer a huge selection of materials made using modern technologies. They allow the coating to achieve high performance. It is the waterproof laminate for the kitchen that is practical, and also provides beauty and comfort in the room.

Waterproof laminate - flooring that is highly resistant to water

Distinctive characteristics waterproof and moisture resistant laminate compared to the usual

Most people choose laminate for their beautiful appearance. But this material has one significant drawback: it is afraid of water. Since the lamellas are fibreboards covered on top with a decorative paper pattern made to look like wood, stone or tiles.

Special processing makes the laminate more water resistant, which allows it to be installed even in the kitchen

If you pour water over such a coating and leave it for a short time, the laminate will quickly swell and swell. The presentation of such material will be lost, since a thin protective film does not protect against moisture.

The weak points of the laminate floor are the joints between the boards and the material locks. If moisture gets into these places, the coating gets wet, the internal structure of the material is disturbed, and as a result, the floor is deformed. And even after complete drying, the laminate does not become the same as before.

Special treatment and waterproofing of joints after laying will help to prevent this. In addition, modern manufacturers treat locks with special compounds based on wax and silicone. This significantly extends the life of the floor covering. And treatment with a solution with microscopic corundum particles allows you to strengthen the top layer of the laminate.

If you put a waterproof laminate in the kitchen, then you don't have to worry about moisture and mechanical damage.

Which todrink laminate for kitchen: waterproof or moisture resistant option

Many people confuse these two types of laminate: waterproof and moisture resistant. But the main difference between them lies in the manufacturing method, which gives the material such a parameter as resistance to water.For a waterproof material, a denser PVC board is used, not fiberboard. In addition, the lamellas are treated with special impregnations, which provide protection against moisture penetration between the seams and joints.

The packaging of such a laminate necessarily has special marks: aqua or drawing of an open tap, drops of water. But there are such marks both on the moisture-resistant coating and on the waterproof laminate. To find a suitable option for the kitchen, it is imperative to understand the characteristics of each option.

Useful advice! Experts say that for a kitchen that works as usual, you can safely use a high-quality moisture-resistant laminate.

The waterproof coating has a moisture-proof base made of modern composite material - PVC

Moisture resistant laminate for the kitchen: coverage parameters

Any laminate is made from fiberboard. For moisture-resistant material, high-density fiberboard is used. It must be at least 900 kg / cu. m.

To reduce water absorption by the surface of the lamellas, as well as the joints of the boards, they are treated with a special protective, waterproofing coating based on melamine and pectin resins, silicone, wax or paraffin. For some models, manufacturers use corundum-based impregnation for processing the inner layers. This substance enhances the effect of moisture resistance.

Such measures prevent the instantaneous absorption of water, but this does not give a complete guarantee. Manufacturers indicate 3-6 hours after which moisture will begin to be absorbed. The base of the laminate will swell, and the coating itself will deform.

Laminated panels acquire greater moisture resistance due to special impregnation of the locking mechanism with special wax-based compounds

Small splashes from washing or washed food, evaporation, small puddles, spilled tea, damp cleaning or other irregular wetting, such a laminate will withstand. But it will not survive significant flooding or constant humidity.

Useful advice! It is necessary to lay moisture-resistant laminate so that there are no cracks. Be sure to first level the floor with a good underlay, such as cork.

What moisture resistant laminate to buy: manufacturer's choice

The modern laminate flooring market for the kitchen is so wide that it is very easy to get confused. We present to your attention the largest manufacturers of floor coverings, whose assortment includes collections with moisture resistant properties.

The strength and durability of the laminate directly depends on the manufacturer

The most popular brands in Russia are:

• Alloc;
• Witex;
• Pergo;
• Kronospan;
• Tarkett;
• Classen;
• Quick-Step.

Laminate of European production, namely: Swedish, Norwegian, German and Belgian, enjoys an excellent reputation among buyers. Such a coating among craftsmen is considered more reliable, high quality and durable than Russian-made laminate. Many users claim that such material is less scratched and also withstands significant floods.

Expensive waterproof laminate from a well-known manufacturer will serve for many years

But Russian-made laminate has one advantage - the price of the material. In addition, many well-known brands release their models at Russian factories.

The price of a moisture-resistant laminate of European production starts at 1300 rubles. per sq. m. The cost of covering economy class starts from 500 rubles. per sq. m.

Useful advice! When choosing a laminate, it is important to pay attention not only to the brand, but also to the address of the factory where the material is manufactured. The flooring made in Europe is of better quality than the lamellas that are produced in Russian factories.

It is definitely not worth saving on quality when buying cheap laminate of unknown brands for the kitchen

Waterproof laminate for kitchen: material characteristics

For those who want to reliably protect the kitchen floor from moisture, the best way is to choose a waterproof laminate as the material. A polyvinyl chloride plate is used as a basis. This material is resistant to moisture and can be exposed to water for a long time. The surface of the lamellas is made of PVC; joints and locks are treated with a waterproofing agent based on wax, silicones, resins.

The downside of such material is the cost. The price of a waterproof laminate for the kitchen is the highest, but it is fully justified by the quality of the product. For example, the German manufacturer Vitex gives a guarantee for Aqua-Protect for more than 25 years. The service life of a waterproof coating depends on the swelling factor. The lower this figure, the longer the laminate will not undergo deformation.

Useful advice! The strength and durability of a laminate flooring depends on the manufacturer. Experienced craftsmen note that the 32nd class of German-made laminate for the kitchen is better in quality than the Chinese or Russian material of the 33rd class.

Moisture resistant laminate is similar to conventional, but based on HDF board

What buy waterproof laminate for the kitchen: brand review

In the Russian market, such brands of waterproof laminate are very popular: French Dumafloor, German Witex and Belgian Aqua-Step. These manufacturers provide a wide range of models in different decors, including the popular imitation of oak, pine, beech. In addition, these companies produce waterproof laminate for the kitchen for tiles and natural stone.

Dumafloor's waterproof laminate flooring provides customers with two coating collections: Aquafloor and Aqua Expert (Plus and Cuadro lines). All products are a hydro-floor with a plastic base. Also, the laminate protects from moisture with a special layer, reinforced with an electron beam.

This flooring usually has a 32 class of wear resistance, there are also 31 class variants. Under the Dumaflor laminate, you can install a warm floor heating system. Also, the peculiarity of the panels is in the special CLICK fastening, thanks to which quick installation and water tightness of the joints is carried out.

The laminate of the French company Dumafloor enjoys a good reputation, it is considered to be of better quality and more durable

The average price of Dumafloor waterproof laminate is 1600-1700 rubles. per sq. m.

Aqua-Step flooring has a 32 class of wear resistance, an antibacterial coating and an anti-slip surface. The basis of such a laminate is a PVC plastic plate with air chambers. This material is presented in two versions:

• as a board: Original, Wood4V, Wood2V, Shipdeck;
• in the form of a tile: Aqua-Step Mini.

Related article:

How to lay laminate flooring correctly: choice of substrate, styling nuances and recommendations

Leveling the floor. Selection and installation of the substrate. Installation instructions. The nuances of installation in difficult places.

This coating is equipped with an elastic seal in the UNICLICK lock, thanks to which the joints are protected from moisture. Also, the laminate is treated with a special resin-based solution. For this material, both electric and water floor heating are excellent. The cost of Aqua-Step flooring starts from 1,700 rubles. per sq. m.

Many well-known European brands have been producing their products at Russian factories for a long time

German-made laminate Vitex has high waterproof and waterproofing characteristics. The basis of Aqua Protect waterproof laminate is a special, patented composite material. After pressing, each board is treated with silicone or hot wax. It is this waterproofing treatment that gives the contour of the product a darker shade.

The beveled laminate from this manufacturer, unlike other similar models, can be used in the kitchen, since such decorative joints are reliably treated with a waterproofing solution. According to their characteristics, lamellas are in no way inferior to ceramic tiles.You can also install any underfloor heating system under this coating, because temperature drops for such a material are not at all scary.

In addition, the swelling ratio of this laminate is less than 6%. It also has anti-static properties. And the glueless Click connection makes it very easy to install the floor, you can arrange furniture immediately after installation.

Russian-made laminated waterproof coatings are more affordable

Vitex company produces several collections with various designs imitating natural wood, marble, as well as coatings decorated using the technology of artificial aging of wood. The cost of the Marena V2 and Marena Maxi V2 lineup is 1,690 rubles. per sq. m. This material is ideal for expensive design in a classic style.

The price for large-format slats of the Marena XL V4 collection is on average 2100 rubles. per sq. m. The Marena stone V4 model is an excellent alternative to ceramic tiles. The collection includes 12 decor options. The average cost of the material is 1690 rubles. per sq.m.

Useful advice! The price for the same model in different stores may differ. Therefore, before buying, you need to study in detail the product market and view photos of the laminate in the kitchen.

Witex flooring not only offers technical properties that go far beyond the usual, but also meets the environmental requirements

Swelling coefficient of plastic laminate: indicator value

This indicator allows you to accurately determine the degree of material resistance to moisture. The coefficient is determined as follows:

• a sample of the board that is used to make the laminate is immersed in cold water for 24 hours;
• the indicators of changes in the material are removed, because under the influence of water, the laminate changes its geometric parameters.

According to the EN 13329 standard, the material should not change its characteristics by more than 18%. Only then are the lamellas considered moisture resistant. The lower this percentage, the higher the resistance of the coating to water. Laminate class 32 and above has a coefficient of 18%. A product manufactured in Europe, namely Belgium, Austria and Germany, is guaranteed to pass the set swelling threshold.

Lamellas are considered moisture resistant if the material does not change its characteristics by more than 18%

Some manufacturers of moisture-resistant laminate for the kitchen manipulate the designations of moisture- and water-resistant materials. You can check the swelling characteristic using the technical data sheet. This document must contain the parameter Thickness swelling according EN13329. If the opposite is ≤18%, then the selected product is really moisture resistant. For a waterproof laminate, this figure is much lower. For example, Alloc Original with a plastic backing has only 8% swell. And this information is indicated in the technical documentation.

Modern laminate under the tiles in the kitchen: vinyl floor

Vinyl laminate is the latest generation of flooring that is a successful alternative to conventional moisture resistant material. The laminate is made from environmentally friendly polyvinyl chloride. The product does not deform when the temperature rises, and also does not absorb unpleasant odors.

The popular waterproof tile laminate can replace stone floors in the kitchen

Vinyl laminate consists of four layers:

1. The upper ball protects the coating from impacts, scratches, burns and other mechanical damage.
2. The next layer is the decorative pattern of the laminate, which is visible on the surface.
3. The third ball is responsible for cushioning the flooring.
4. The bottom layer provides strength to the product.

Vinyl laminate reviews are only positive. About 81% of users recommend this material for the kitchen. The reviews indicate such positive qualities of the material as:

• moisture resistance;
• soundproofing;
• impact resistance;
• durability;

A material such as waterproof laminate will appeal to customers who prefer ceramic tiles

• wear resistance;
• resistance to ultraviolet rays and chemical attack;
• fire resistance;
• light weight;
• ease of installation;
• environmental friendliness.

In addition, the maintenance of such a coating is very simple: just wipe it with a damp cloth. The wear resistance is so high that it can be easily used in rooms with high traffic. You don't have to worry about stains and dirt, since flexible laminate is very resistant and retains its original shine, and also does not fade in the sun.

Sectional waterproof laminate flooring

Laminate on the wall in the kitchen: room design options

For kitchen wall decoration materials that are durable and resistant to wear are also needed. The ideal option is laminate. Such a coating is not only fashionable and beautiful, but also practical. Previously, the use of this material for wall decoration was used very rarely, but now it is a very fashionable trend.

It is especially beneficial to use laminate flooring on the kitchen wall in the interior. The material has a protective function in the cooking area. With the help of wood covering in contrasting colors, you can delimit the space of a small room. A laminate apron for the kitchen looks beautiful and harmonious.

It is very stylish to design a modern kitchen in a minimalist style. Most often, the following colors are used in the interior of the kitchen: black, white and gray. Wood panels located in the apron area and on the adjacent wall add zest to this design. Photos of laminate on the wall in the kitchen prove how harmoniously and stylishly modern technologies and natural materials are combined.

Interior with laminate on the wall is not only stylish, but also practical

Laminate in the kitchen: reviews users and advice on the choice of material

Before purchasing a laminate, you must carefully study the product market and familiarize yourself with the reviews of people who have already bought this coating. When choosing lamellas for the kitchen, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

• there should be a special sticker on the box of the floor covering that denotes a moisture-resistant laminate, for example, the Latin word "aqua" or an umbrella under raindrops;
• the density of the panels must be at least 900 kg / cu. m .;
• the coefficient of swelling of the material for rooms with high humidity should be below 18%;
• 32 and 33 class moisture resistant laminate will be preferable;
• the bottom layer of the kitchen covering must be waterproof;
• it is better to choose manufacturers who cover the locks with an additional, wax protective coating.

Many buyers claim in reviews that waterproof laminate lasts longer, is less scratched and can withstand even significant "bays" and "floods"

Many experts argue that installing a waterproof laminate in a class 34 kitchen may not meet the expectations put on it, and the price for such a coating is much higher than other lamellas. Typically the highest grade laminate flooring is used in commercial applications.

If water gets in, the surface of the laminate becomes slippery. In this regard, the best option for the kitchen will be a rough or embossed structure of the outer layer.

Useful advice! For the kitchen, a waterproof laminate without bevel is better suited. After all, the fewer joints, the less moisture gets inside the coating.

It is better to choose laminate for the kitchen with a rough surface.

How much does 33 grade laminate flooring cost: the best choice

Those wishing to buy a high-quality and wear-resistant floor covering with excellent water-repellent and sound-proof characteristics should choose lamellas of class 33, with a thickness of about 12 mm. Modern manufacturers provide a wide selection of different models for every taste.

The price of plastic laminate is the highest. But not everyone can afford modern technology.Therefore, it is possible to purchase a budget option - a rubber laminate. The rubberized version, regardless of the style of the interior, looks great in any room, including it is used to decorate the kitchen under the laminate. In addition, this material is resistant to external influences.

Prices for class 33 waterproof coatings in different stores can be quite different.

When choosing a floor covering, it is important to take into account the characteristics of the material and the characteristics of the room in which it will be used. The kitchen is a special place with high humidity. Therefore, the optimal choice of material is a waterproof laminate. It looks beautiful and has a number of positive characteristics.