Laminate is an extremely popular floor covering. It can be used in a wide variety of conditions. It is great for the bedroom, living room, hallway and even the kitchen. In rooms that are characterized by high humidity, a specialized sealant for laminate flooring will help improve resistance to the external environment and increase service life. It is applied during or after assembly of the material.
Laminate sealant
Why do you need sealant?
Among the main problems that a specialized composition for laminate can solve are:
- protection of seams from water, dirt and dust;
- prevention of squeaking;
- protection of the coating from adverse external influences.
The main task of the sealant is to protect the locking connection. By sealing the joints, the durability of the coating can be significantly increased. It is recommended to use sealant in all rooms, as it has an extremely beneficial effect on the service life of the floor.
Important! It is recommended to select specialized compounds specifically for processing laminate flooring. This way you can save money and carry out processing much faster.
A little about the composition of the product
There are different sealants, which may differ both in composition and method of use. The most popular are products based on wax, silicone and acrylic. It is worth noting that the most important requirement for the composition is the absence of the property of gluing the lamellas to each other. It is not advisable to use adhesives, as this can interfere with the mobility of the web and lead to problems with overtension.
Specialized colored sealants can be used to seal various cracks
To ensure long-lasting protection, it is recommended to use proven products that not only provide reliable protection, but are also environmentally friendly and durable.
Properties and characteristics of laminate sealant
Among the main properties that specialized compounds have are:
- durability;
- resistance to everyday external influences (including regular cleaning);
- hiding cracks (when using colored products);
- protection against temperature changes.
Depending on the specific option, the application method may differ slightly (application can be done during installation or after).
Sealants can be used to seal the joints of parquet, laminate and any other similar material.
Separately, it is worth noting the property of special compounds not to glue the boards together. In the future, if you need to disassemble the floor covering, this can be done without any problems, and then put everything back together without damaging the locks.
Kinds
For laying and reliable sealing of modern laminated boards, three options are used, represented by silicone and acrylic, as well as special colored sealants.
Silicone
The composition of such sealants is based on silicone, an organosilicon chemical substance that has excellent technical characteristics. The advantages of silicone products are represented by high elasticity and excellent adhesion, strength and guaranteed safety. The material does not leave stains during operation, is resistant to temperature changes and is extremely easy to apply.
Organic extenders reduce sealant viscosity
The peculiarity of silicone compounds is that they cannot be painted, so for installation it is recommended to purchase colorless sealants or those already made in a certain color scheme.
Acrylic
The composition of such sealants is based on acrylic, a synthetic polymer that forms very strong compounds that mask small defects in the coating and do not crack or turn yellow during the entire period of operation. The advantages of acrylic compositions include affordable cost and elasticity, the ability to use in repairing chips and cracks in the floor covering.
Antiseptics and fungicides in the composition protect against the appearance of fungus and mold
It should be noted that acrylic sealants are extremely rarely produced in colorless form and contain dyes. It is for this reason that when choosing an acrylic sealant by color, it is necessary to focus on the appearance of the sample of the laminated board being laid.
Laminate sealants
There are different options available for purchase on the market, each with a different base, consistency, composition and mode of action. To understand which option is better to choose, you need to carefully study each solution, its advantages and disadvantages.
Silicone sealants
Silicone sealants are widely available on the market. They can also be used to seal floor joints. Among their advantages are the following properties:
- high level of adhesion;
- transparency (there are also color options);
- elasticity;
- high level of security.
Sealants for laminate flooring
It is extremely easy to use the silicone compound. After application, drying occurs as quickly as possible. Typically this type of sealant is used to seal individual boards and crevices. At the same time, it is also possible to completely process the seams with silicone.
Acrylic sealants
Acrylic options are created on the basis of acrylic additives. Among the advantages of gels containing acrylic are:
- high level of hardness after drying;
- masking minor defects;
- excellent adhesion.
Acrylic sealants are excellent for treating joints between two sheets.
The resulting seal is not subject to destructive effects and does not allow moisture and dirt to get inside. Very often acrylic is used to eliminate visible defects. If the laminate is damaged, then using a colored acrylic composition can quickly solve the problem.
TOP 3 tile sealants for 2021
Adhesive-sealant Quelyd 007
Quelyd 007 is a universal product for laying floor tiles. Work can be carried out both outdoors and indoors. The composition does not contain toxic substances, so the mass is safe for humans and animals, and does not have a pungent odor.
Experts note minimal shrinkage, which means there is no need to modify the seams after drying. After laying the tile covering and completely drying, the surface can be treated with detergents, while the seams are reliably protected from moisture and external chemical influences. The sealant is not afraid of direct sunlight, so the owners do not have to worry that the seam will crack over time; this certainly will not happen.
When laying tiles, it is important to remember that Quelyd 007 adhesive-sealant can only be applied to surfaces that are free of dirt and grease.
Average cost: 535 rubles per 290 ml. Country of origin: France.
Adhesive-sealant Quelyd 007
Advantages:
- good adhesion;
- minimal shrinkage;
- does not contain isocyanates;
- no pungent odor;
- free of silicones and solvents;
- high resistance to UV radiation.
Flaws:
- high price.
KRASS sealant for kitchen and bathroom
Krass is excellent for laying tiles and ceramic coatings in rooms with high humidity and a high probability of water getting on the surface. Thanks to its high-quality composition, the mass dries quickly and ensures reliable sealing of the seams. Antifungal substances prevent the growth of bacteria and the appearance of mold at joints.
The product provides minimal shrinkage and eliminates cracking of seams. The surface can be washed even with hot water using household chemicals.
The sealant is very convenient to use. The mass is easy to apply and evenly distributed. After drying, the white color remains white. In addition to tiles, the product can be used to seal bathtubs, window sills, washing machines, dishwashers, other plumbing fixtures and household appliances.
According to customers, Krass is the best universal sealant for household work both outside and inside.
Average cost: 283 rubles per 300 ml. Country of origin: Poland.
KRASS sealant for kitchen and bathroom
Advantages:
- dries quickly;
- convenient application;
- affordable price;
- economical consumption;
- seams do not darken over time;
- antifungal properties;
- resistant to high humidity;
- the seams are resistant to hot water and household chemicals;
- Suitable for use on any surface.
Flaws:
- unpleasant smell.
Sanitary silicone sealant “TYTAN professional” UPG
The texture of the mass is elastic and easily distributed over the surface. In addition, the protective film is formed in 15-20 minutes, which allows for high-quality formation of seams. The sealant tolerates regular heating up to +110 degrees well, so it is permissible to lay a heated floor under the tiles in the bathroom or kitchen. The mass can also withstand one freezing cycle down to -20 degrees. However, such a temperature difference does not affect the operating functions of the product.
The paste adheres well to surfaces, making the work process easier. In addition to tiles, the product allows you to work with glass, ceramics, wood and other materials. Universal putty for sealing sinks, showers and bathtubs, toilet and kitchen plumbing.
The composition includes antifungal components that protect the seams from the formation of mold. The special formula guarantees that even with daily wet cleaning, fungus will not form for at least five years.
Average cost: 355 rubles per 310 ml. Country of origin: Poland.
Sanitary silicone sealant “TYTAN professional” UPG
Advantages:
- high adhesiveness;
- frost resistance up to -20 degrees;
- does not deteriorate when heated;
- antifungal properties;
- water resistance;
- resistance to UV rays.
Flaws:
- only one freezing cycle is possible;
- white color does not always match the color of the tiles.
Most popular brands
There are a huge number of different products on the market. There are a number of manufacturers that are most popular. Among them are:
- Clix;
- Click;
- MasterFIX;
- Soudal.
When choosing in a store, it is recommended to first pay attention to these brands.
Important! It is best to choose a highly specialized gel, which is created specifically for processing laminate and any other similar coating with locks.
Click Protect
A popular solution that can be used to seal seams when laying laminate and parquet. This product will be used to treat the locks before connecting the boards to each other. Among its advantages are:
- fast polymerization;
- minimum consumption (one package is enough for 10 m2);
- availability;
- easy application.
In some cases, users complain that it dries too quickly, so this sealant will require installation at a high pace. It is recommended to immediately wipe the gel off the surface of the slats (if it gets on it), otherwise it will be much more difficult to remove it after drying.
Appearance of a tube with gel
Click Guard
A specialized option that is created specifically for laminate. It has no adhesive properties. The gel is applied during assembly of the floor covering to the lock's spike; after snapping, excess sealant comes out and can be easily removed. A 130 g package is enough for about 7-8 m2. After drying, the composition is invisible, and the stability of the floor covering is significantly increased. Protected locks will not be subject to swelling or any negative external influences.
Masterfix
Acrylic siliconized sealant, which is excellent for processing various seams and joints. Thanks to its unusual composition, this product has unique properties. It can be used both indoors and outdoors and is suitable for a wide variety of coatings and surfaces.
The product belongs to the class of sealing sealants. Thanks to the use of this base, it is possible to fill even large cavities. There are different color solutions, so choosing the most suitable option for yourself will not be difficult.
Soudal
Colored acrylic based sealant. The advantage of this option is the complete absence of solvents in the composition, so there is no unpleasant odor during use. The solution is excellent for sealing joints and cracks. If there is a place in the apartment where two different or identical floor coverings meet, then the seam between them can easily be closed using Soudal acrylic gel.
No surface preparation is required to use the product.
The advantage of this option is that the resulting seam, after drying, can be sanded and subjected to other influences. The colored composition is ideal for repairing chips, cracks and deep damage.
Rico AquaStop
A natural wax-based product that is used in the assembly of laminate and parquet for the treatment of locks. Thanks to the use of this sealant, the following advantages can be achieved:
- quick processing (the consistency of the product is quite liquid, so processing takes a minimum of time);
- reliable protection (the wax remains inside for many years and does not lose its properties);
- reducing the likelihood of squeaks and crackles.
The process of processing the lock of a product
The use of wax when laying laminate significantly increases the service life of the coating and reduces the likelihood of squeaks and other unpleasant sounds during operation.
Homax Click
Water-based acrylic sealant, created specifically for the protection of various joints of laminate and parquet. It is applied after assembling the coating to areas that are susceptible to moisture penetration. It can also be used to process board locks to ensure that the joint is sealed. The advantage of this option is economical consumption. A 250 ml package is enough for 15-20 m2 of flooring or 50 linear meters.
Important! When selecting, you should pay attention to the cost and volume of packaging. This aspect is especially important if you plan to process a large area.
Is a sealant justified in practice (When a sealant may be needed)
The use of sealant is justified if the laminate without moisture or water-resistant qualities is laid in a place where it may periodically come into contact with water. This could be the kitchen or hallway. In other cases, processing the laminate seams will only be a safety net. Even if you spill water on the laminate and wipe it right away, nothing bad will happen to it. And if there is a flood in your apartment, no sealant will save the laminate. Insurance is voluntary and requires additional costs. For a room of 50 square meters you will have to spend from 2000 to 3000 rubles on processing the seams.
The sealant is applied to the top tenon of the laminate. Lock joints are not processed because this may prevent the panels from being tightly secured.
In modern renovations, craftsmen refuse to use glue to attach the floor covering to the base. Laminate manufacturers talk about treating seams, but they say that this is not necessary with a high-quality laminate and leave the decision to use a sealant to the customer's choice. It is enough to choose the right laminate for a specific location and care for it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to choose a product?
To choose the right sealant, you should follow a number of simple rules. First, you will need to decide on the purpose of purchasing a specialized product. Different compounds are used to treat cracks and locks. Secondly, you need to clarify the budget. Some options are more expensive and are not suitable for mass processing of laminate locks. Thirdly, you need to understand what properties should be obtained at the end.
For a long time, natural wax was considered the best option for laminate and parquet. Nowadays, to ensure maximum moisture protection, it is better to use silicone; to obtain the most rigid seam, it is better to use acrylic.
Various floor sealant options
Popular brands of laminate wax
Wax can be found in a variety of forms in construction or specialty stores. Consumers are offered the most popular brands that produce a variety of types of waxes, such as:
- Rico;
- Edding;
- KimTec;
- PNZ;
- Borma Wachs;
- Watco;
- and many others.
By following simple rules, you can avoid even minor repairs and enjoy high-quality and durable flooring for a long time.
For example, wax for Leroy Merlin laminate flooring can be bought directly in the store along with the laminate. In this case, you can ideally choose a product that will match the color scheme of the floor covering. It is advisable to take care of floor treatment products in advance. Especially when it comes to repairing chips. This way you can choose the perfect shade and not have to worry about buying extra products later.
Using laminate sealant
Each product has instructions for use. The application technology must be strictly followed so as not to damage the locks and further trouble-free use of the floor covering.
Where and how much to apply
When treating locks, most gels should not be applied to the groove. Only the upper part of the tenon is processed, after which the boards are connected to each other. Do not apply too much sealant. After connecting the lamellas, the excess will be drained out. Depending on the type of composition, the instructions will indicate further actions.
Processing the lamella tenon
How to distribute
Distribution is carried out using a special dispenser nozzle, which is equipped with most sealants. Extrusion of the product is carried out by using a special gun or pressing on the packaging. Excess will need to be removed after joining the boards. There is no additional need to distribute the composition throughout the castle.
Specialized sealant gun
When and how to remove excess
Depending on the type of product, excess is removed either immediately with a rag or sponge, or after drying with a plastic spatula or a stationery knife. Some options are removed after 5 minutes using a spatula. The more carefully the gel is applied, the less excess will need to be removed.
Video - Sealing laminate
Learn more about how to seal laminate flooring in the video:
Methods for applying wax sealant when laying laminate or parquet boards
Before starting sealing work, you need a 0.5 liter tube. heat to a temperature of about 25-35 degrees Celsius. This operation is required to more easily squeeze out the composition from the bottle and apply it to the lock joint. Before use, shake the container well to ensure homogeneity of the mass.
The manufacturer suggests applying the wax using a dry cloth, without particularly worrying about the technical execution of such a procedure. I've heard of applying it with a brush. For me, as a master who professionally deals only with floors, this method of performing this simple operation is unacceptable, because it is very long. Can you imagine a specialist who paints with a brush instead of styling?
We take a heated tube, cut the spout diagonally at the cap between the second and third divisions, counting from the very tip. Such a cut at the initial stage will give the optimal amount of extruded composition. As the liquid exit becomes more difficult, the size of the hole needs to be increased.
The compound can be applied either to the top of the tongue joint or into the groove of the panel. Application to the protruding part of the lock (ridge) is not very effective, since the product does not reach the lower part when installing the planks, as a result of which creaking may occur in the parquet board.
By pressing on the bottle, we evenly squeeze the mixture into the recess of the lock of the assembled row. Applying "Riko" is quite convenient. Then we take a scrap or a solid strip of material and, inserting the comb into the groove at an angle, move it forward along the entire length. The sealant is spread evenly, including the top of the tongue.
After completion of the work, the remains of the liquid composite are removed with a rag or napkin. The marks finally disappear after several wet cleanings using a soap solution.
Wax sealing should not be carried out on laminate or parquet boards with treated locks in production conditions. Before using the product, I recommend that you pay attention to the insert included in the packaging with the floors. There they indicate the possibility of using various types of sealants.
The effectiveness of wax sealant - review
The proven effectiveness of Rico sealant has been tested to eliminate squeaks on parquet boards. One day, we were asked to fix a defect in the laid coating. Arrived, disassembled, smeared, rubbed, assembled. The customers called afterwards and the creaking was eliminated.
The second function of the sealant is to protect the open parts of the lock joint from moisture. I have no arguments or evidence here. In theory, sealing should work. In practice: in addition to wax and paraffin, the composition contains substances that prevent the composition from hardening. The natural state of Rico AquaStop is liquid. Once on the MDF, this mixture is absorbed. Question: “Does the ingress of a liquid component affect the possibility of raising the pile and causing some swelling of the slab?”
Wax sealing is not very effective for gaps formed during laminate flooring because it does not seal them like adhesive sealant. Here, manufacturer Rico recommends using Lock Guard paste, designed for sealing cracks.
An alternative method of sealing parquet boards
An alternative is to use natural wax or paraffin. The simplest form in which you can find them is candles. Personally, I used them to eliminate squeaks in Tarkett parquet boards. After some time I called the customers, the squeak was almost gone. The problem was on the south side of the house, on the balcony adjacent to the room the temperature reached about 40 degrees Celsius.
The method of using this sealant is simple: rub the candle into the lock until you are completely satisfied.
Sealing the deformation gap
If desired, the gap that remains against the wall can be sealed using colored silicone sealant. The procedure is extremely simple and includes the following steps:
- Painting tape is applied to the edge of the laminate.
- The voids are filled with the composition.
- Using a spatula, the gel is leveled with the surface of the laminate.
It is recommended to use silicone, as it is elastic. The expansion gap should do its job and allow the laminate to expand as needed.
Colored gel will help replace the baseboard
Required Tools
To install laminate flooring with sealants, you need to prepare a set of the most basic tools, presented:
- a clamp for laminate or a bracket for installation;
- padded plastic or wooden block;
- restrictive wedges;
- rubber spatula;
- drill with a set of drills;
- marking pencil and tape measure;
- hammer or mallet;
- with a hacksaw.
Some formulations require the purchase of a special gun for applying the sealant, but most products are available in convenient tubes with a tip. To remove all excess gel, use a soft rag or plastic trowel, and also purchase special compounds.
