All about thresholds for laminate flooring: flexible, metal, multi-level. Thresholds for laminate flooring - the exact combination of floor coverings Thresholds are angular in width, what are the docking ones

Modern manufacturers produce many different floor coverings. However, the most popular and common material is laminate. It has many advantages over other coatings, which makes it very popular and relevant for many years. Its installation is quite simple and does not take much time, and the finishing touch of such work is the installation of a special threshold.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of laminate thresholds is their useful protective function. The decorative role of these details cannot be underestimated, as they hide rough edges and joints of floor panels, making the interior more neat and aesthetically pleasing. Fortunately, today such elements can be matched to laminate flooring in absolutely any color. The thresholds have no serious shortcomings, however, it is worth noting the most best quality some materials used in their production.

Also, some copies are difficult to install. It is also worth noting that some types of thresholds do not look very aesthetically pleasing.

Most often this applies to options with open fasteners: they lack a decorative layer, which gives the structure a more attractive and complete appearance.

Kinds

Today in finishing and finishing stores building materials You can choose a variety of thresholds for laminate flooring. Let's consider all the possible varieties of these useful parts:

  • Transitional. Such models are often used to decorate expansion gaps. First of all, these types of thresholds are designed to create a neat and smooth transition from one type of flooring to another. In addition, the transition parts protect the laminate from dirt, dust and debris, and also protect it from chips, burrs and other similar damage. It is also worth noting that with the help of correctly selected transition thresholds you can create an unobtrusive effect of zoning the space;

  • Multi-level. Such thresholds are classical or non-standard shape are aimed at leveling and smoothing height differences between floor finishes of different widths. This parameter can vary from 1.5 to 10 cm, and the height of the leveled difference between coatings often reaches 20 mm. The fastening systems in such structures are the same as in single-level options: open or closed. For finishing materials with different widths and heights, you can choose a multi-level threshold with a special Z- or L-shaped fixing edging;

  • Angular. Laminate is often used for cladding stairs, and in in this case The corner pads come in very handy. They are made from metal, wood or MDF and protect the floor covering from abrasion, dirt and unnecessary slipping. These parts are fastened in a standard way: open or closed. With non-insulated fastening, the corners are fixed with hardware, and with closed fastening - with specially shaped auxiliary edges;

  • Edging. Such linings are usually made of reliable metal. Otherwise, they are also called regional ones. In fact, edging thresholds are a good analogue for a corner for steps or a plinth. They can also have different shapes, but they can only have one method of fastening - closed. The dimensions of the edging overlays vary, so it is recommended to select them based on a sample of the laminate, so as not to make a mistake in the parameters;

  • Special for laminate. This category includes edgings made of MDF or aluminum (multi-level and single-level). They have a special Z-, H-, F-, G- profile. With the help of such overlays, homogeneous materials of the same or different color range, density and thickness. Such thresholds are ideal for creating expansion joints. They are fixed only in a closed way.

Materials

In the production of thresholds for laminate flooring we use various materials. Let's take a closer look at everything Features and characteristics of structures of different manufacture:

  • Metal. As a rule, lightweight aluminum is used in production. Steel or brass is used a little less often. Such thresholds are the strongest, most durable and reliable. Thanks to these characteristics, they are very popular among modern consumers. Metal overlays are used in both home and commercial settings. One of the main advantages of thresholds made of aluminum or of stainless steel is the variety of decor.

  • Anodized. Thus, metal strips undergo anodic oxidation, after which a special metallized film appears on their surface. It can have different shades, from golden to bronze with patina. These options look very nice, but their main advantage is not only their attractive design, but also the fact that they are not subject to mechanical damage (chips and scratches), and are also protected from corrosion;

  • Painted. Special polymer-powder mixtures of different shades are applied to the surface of such overlays. They can be either muted or bright and juicy. The result is very strong and durable coatings that are not afraid of abrasion or scratches. They can even be washed using aggressive chemical compositions;

  • Laminated. Such aluminum strips are covered with a special durable PVC film, which has a texture that replicates laminate. Similar options are the best-selling because they are inexpensive and are represented by the widest range;

  • Chrome plated. Thresholds treated with chrome are wildly popular due to their interesting and bright design, as well as wear resistance and durability. Over time, such glossy coatings do not lose their attractive appearance and do not require special care.

  • Flexible. Plastic thresholds are simple and practical. They are presented in a variety of color solutions, since PVC itself is easily amenable to almost any processing. Many manufacturers produce such overlays for laminate flooring. A set of such parts consists of the following parts.

  • Mounting rail(solid or perforated). It is attached to the base using self-tapping screws or mounting adhesive;

  • Profiled threshold. This part is inserted into a special groove in the strip, after which it is securely fixed.

These types of thresholds are considered the most common and popular. There are also models made of wood or MDF on the market, which are universal due to their discreet and neutral appearance. However, they are expensive, and it is very difficult to find plastic or metal parts for them.

Soft rubber thresholds have good performance qualities. They are distinguished by excellent anti-slip effect. However, over time, such details may lose color saturation, and they usually look quite simple and unpresentable, but they are inexpensive.

Design Features

Thresholds for laminate flooring can be multi-level, single-level and universal. There are also the following modifications of these useful parts:

  • Self-adhesive single-level thresholds with a special polymer on one side adhesive composition, with the help of which the part is attached to the base;
  • Anti-slip pads with corrugated synthetic rubber or polyurethane;
  • Overlays with a hidden cable channel, which are single-level strips made of metal or plastic, in the center of which there is a small cavity.

Purpose

Mainly, a well-chosen threshold is intended to mask the joints between floor coverings. So, in the places where the laminate joins the tiles, they use the following types of connecting strips:

  • Edging (leveling). It will come in handy if there is a small level difference. As a rule, such options are made of metal and complemented by an elastic rubber gasket;
  • Decorative. Such details are used during transitions different rooms;
  • Curvilinear. These thresholds are used in cases where it is planned to adjoin dissimilar coatings to each other in an unusual way. design solution;
  • Final. This joining strip is used when framing the edges of the flooring in the hallway. Often similar designs are used in the design of raised floor coverings, for example, near stairs, steps or at the junction dividing a loggia or balcony (balcony threshold).

Mounting methods

There are two main types of threshold fastening:

  • Open;
  • Closed.

At open type fasteners, ready-made holes for installation are already present in the strip. There are cases when manufacturers do not make them, but this should not scare you, because you can drill them yourself. Before installing the overlay, you should carefully trim the gap between the boundaries of the structures. It could be bugs door leaves or baseboard.

If your home has laminate flooring installed on wooden surface, then the threshold can be attached to it with simple self-tapping screws. If the base is concrete, then you need to drill holes in it at the place of fasteners and drive plastic dowels into them.

More attractive is the threshold with a hidden fastening. For this purpose, pads consisting of two parts are suitable:

  • Mounting, which needs to be fixed to the floor using self-tapping screws;
  • Decorative, which covers fasteners.

The decorative component must be attached to the mounting half using special locking connection. The threshold can also be installed using special glue. This can be a classic PVA composition, liquid nails or any other extremely durable options. They need to be applied to the back side of the lining, after which it can be laid at the junction of the floor coverings and pressed firmly for high-quality fastening.

There is also a combined method of fixing the thresholds. It is produced with the simultaneous use of self-tapping screws and adhesives.

As a rule, this fastening option is used in cases where it is necessary to install a wide overlay long length or with a large radius of curvature. As a rule, plastic parts are fixed in this way.

It is worth highlighting cork thresholds. Such products can be safely called universal, since they are made to order in absolutely any shape and structure. Cork thresholds are a separate strip or a special three-layer strip, in which the edges are trimmed with wood. In another way, such options are called compensation.

However, for laminated panels the above overlays are used extremely rarely. They are more suitable for finishing the floor with parquet boards.

How to choose the right one?

The selection of a threshold for finishing a floor should be approached very seriously, despite the seeming insignificance of such a detail. To purchase a suitable product, Several important factors need to be taken into account:

  • Functional load of two rooms. For example, this could be a corridor lined with laminate and a kitchen with ceramic tiles. Since the second room is wet, it is necessary to choose a moisture-resistant threshold. Models made of aluminum or plastic have these properties;
  • Quality of materials. The threshold must be made of high-quality and wear-resistant materials that will not fail in the first years of operation;
  • Designer design.

This article will discuss issues related to the selection and use of molding (threshold) for laminate flooring. The threshold is a strip 10-60 mm wide and 1-4 m long.

The threshold is needed to close the joints between individual laminate slabs.
If you have different floor coverings, for example, laminate and tile, use thresholds as universal device to close the joints.

Kinds

There are several generally accepted types of thresholds (moldings). The difference between them depends on the place of application of this device. We list the main types:


It is used when there is a need to cover the edge of one covering, especially if the edges of the floor covering are raised and approach the steps or threshold of the balcony.

Materials from which thresholds are made

Let's say a few words about the materials from which the thresholds are made. Their large selection is explained by the fact that, according to functional and quality characteristics they vary greatly, hence the big difference in price.

Materials:

A middle option between wood and plastic. There are no special pros or cons.

Mounting methods

  1. Mechanical (open).
  2. For this fastening option, metal moldings are usually used.

    The fastening process itself looks like this: cut the thresholds into pieces of the required length, make a hole in the floor; in the vast majority of cases, holes have already been made in the molding, screw the thresholds to the floor with self-tapping screws.

    Do not use dowels or nails; there is a high risk of damaging the laminate.

  3. Hidden.
  4. Recently it has become very popular. Mostly due to aesthetic preferences. For fastening, strong and quick-drying glue of various compositions is used.

    There are two more rare fastening options that can be mentioned:

  5. Mixed fasteners.
  6. Straight sections are mechanically fastened and all other sections are fastened with hidden fasteners; one long threshold is used. For this option, only plastic moldings are used.

  7. Hidden fastener.

In this case, before laying the laminate, markings are made and a special strip is attached, onto which the threshold itself is then attached.

Choosing the right threshold

If we talk about the material from which thresholds for laminate are made, it all depends on your means and aesthetic preferences.
It is clear that a metal threshold will last longer than a plastic one, and the aesthetic appearance of a wooden threshold is better than a metal one.
Here we lose somewhere and find it somewhere.

An important point when choosing will be the functional purpose of the room, for example, it is better to take a metal threshold between the room and the bathroom, Laminate and wood do not tolerate high humidity.
Let's not forget about common sense. For example, if you buy Balterio laminate for 1800 rubles, do not buy a cheap one plastic threshold, it's very noticeable.

Another example, do not put a wooden threshold in the bathroom, no matter that it looks beautiful at first glance, if you do this, very soon it will lose its presentable appearance.

Laminated panels have long become a favorite floor covering for those who value environmental friendliness, quality and comfort. The laminate fully meets these criteria, representing high quality decorative flooring. However, to achieve the maximum aesthetic effect, when installing lamellas, all possible aspects should be taken into account, without which it will not be possible to create a truly high-quality and functional coating.

One of the most important additional components of the laminate is the threshold, which provides masking of unsightly joints in transitions between different coatings . As a rule, manufacturers produce thresholds that are easy to install, beautiful and durable.

What are the thresholds?

Installation of thresholds – the final stage in laying the lamellas. All canvases are already ready for use and you can safely select suitable thresholds. First you need to determine what material the thresholds for the laminate will be made of.

Modern manufacturers used in manufacturing metals (steel, aluminum, brass), wood, plastic raw materials, cork and the material itself, which was also used in the manufacture of laminate. Are different different models thresholds cost And performance qualities. Let's take a closer look at what types of thresholds for laminate flooring are available on the modern market.

Hardware are made in different color shades. The advantages of such thresholds include the undoubted strength(the highest compared to analogues from other materials), affordability, practicality and long service life. It is recommended to use such thresholds in high-traffic areas, since other material may not withstand the loads.

The only disadvantages of metal thresholds include: low decorative qualities. Still, natural wood looks more advantageous in terms of aesthetic qualities. And yet metal thresholds can be selected for door handles, fittings, chandeliers and other decorative objects interior design.

Wooden thresholds fit most organically into the laminated fabric, however, they the cost is higher than the prices for metal specimens. Wood – environmentally friendly and natural material. Its disadvantages include a short service life. In some cases, they are additionally sanded and coated with varnish compounds.

Cork thresholds for laminate are used in cases where it is required close the transition zone from the lamellas to the stone covering. Due to their high flexibility, such products take on the load from the laminate and at the same time provide decoration to the joint.

Aesthetic plastic thresholds for panels are considered the cheapest. Their dignity lies in large selection color shades . Plastic models do an excellent job of their function, providing both binder and decorative function. However, The quality of the plastic threshold corresponds to the cost. The durability of such models is a rather relative concept.

Threshold models made of laminated elements fit harmoniously into the decor of any room, while there is the ability to select a specific series that is optimal for the color of the floor- for example, parquet floorers usually take threshold models from the same series of laminated panels, but such products are not resistant to water and physical damage.

The choice of material should be made based on docking location. Eg, for fastening tiles and laminated coating it is necessary to choose thresholds that are resistant to water - that is, made of metal or plastic. If required eliminate certain elevation differences– then it is advisable to opt for a cork threshold.

Another classification also applies to thresholds for laminate flooring - according to form and purpose:

They have their own classification and multi-level thresholds for laminate flooring, which are produced in the following standard sizes:

Unusual combinations of different materials are often found in the kitchen, because this particular area has a tiled surface, and the floor of the dining room is usually covered with laminated panels. Through flexible thresholds for laminate flooring masters docking areas near niches, arched structures and columns are also often decorated. Such thresholds for laminate are made from cork or based on hypoallergenic types of plastic, and are produced in rolls. They are easy to transport and stack.

Installing thresholds for laminate flooring

There are quite a lot of installation methods and they all depend on the specific mechanism that is provided in the product.

Open installation

Factory equipment is already in use special niches were made for fasteners. To attach such thresholds to the laminate, you only need put the threshold to the floor, mark and make the necessary holes.

Then It is necessary to drive a plug into the created holes into which self-tapping screws are screwed.. They will create a reliable fixation to the floor, which will ensure the stability of the threshold.

Next you should do proper preparation rough base, namely in the threshold area remove the backing and insert a panel of plywood or plastic. This will protect against loosening of the screws and plugs in the base.

This fixation technique has many advantages, including the low cost of the thresholds and ease of installation. But it was not without its drawbacks. As a rule, they come down to unreliability of holes, which break over time and cease to perform a fixing function.

Laminate is a very popular flooring material. It is beautiful, comfortable, durable and easy to style.

But sometimes there is a need to divide the room into zones using different types of flooring. And this is where the problem arises - the joints.

From different materials, on at different levels, they interfere with walking, spoil the appearance of the coating and reduce its durability.

The joints must be closed and special thresholds for laminate flooring come to the rescue.

Laying thresholds – final stage floor finishing works. All types of coating are already in place, and you can safely choose the appropriate thresholds. First of all, you need to decide on the material.

Thresholds for laminate can be made of: metal, wood, plastic, cork and, in fact, laminate. They differ in both price and consumer properties.

Metal thresholds are made of steel, brass or aluminum, their surface is decorated different colors. Quite inexpensive, but very strong and durable, they are very popular.

Another advantage is the ability to choose the thresholds to match the color of the fittings, door handles, chandelier

Wooden thresholds combine most harmoniously with laminate; their price is slightly higher than metal ones. Wood – natural and environmentally friendly pure material. The disadvantage is their shorter service life. Sometimes they will have to be sanded and re-varnished.

Cork thresholds are used in cases where it is necessary to close the transition from laminate to stone flooring. Thanks to their flexibility, they absorb the load from the movements of the laminate and at the same time decorate the joint.

Plastic decorative thresholds for laminate flooring are the cheapest. Their advantage is a huge palette of colors.

Plastic thresholds perform their function perfectly. But, as they say, the quality matches the price.

The durability of these thresholds is a relative concept. The same as with laminate thresholds.

They fit very well into the interior, they can be matched exactly to the color of the floor - taken from the same collection as the laminate, but such thresholds are afraid of water and are not resistant to mechanical damage.

The choice of material depends on the joint:

  • for example, to connect laminate and tiles, we choose metal thresholds that are resistant to water,
  • and if you need to level out height differences, then cork thresholds are better suited.

One more classification of thresholds can be distinguished - according to functional purpose and form:

  1. Straight thresholds are designed to bridge joints that are on the same level. Can be used for any type of floor covering.
  2. Leveling thresholds will help close joints with a height difference of 3-4 mm.
  3. The final ones are angular in shape, designed to protect the edges of steps from chips and cracks, and have an anti-slip coating.
  4. Multi-level thresholds for laminate flooring. They are used when it is necessary to smooth out the difference in height between coatings. For example: laminate and tile, or laminate and linoleum. Thresholds of various shapes can hide differences from 4 mm to 2 cm.

Multi-level thresholds for laminate flooring can be of the following forms:

Well suited for connecting laminate to laminate, or as a threshold between laminate and linoleum. Such a threshold can be used between tiles and laminate to join them.

Equipped open system installations.

Fastened with dowels and self-tapping screws.

Used in cases where it is necessary to hide large differences in height on different types of coverage.

As you can see from the picture, it is attached in a hidden way.

  1. Complex shape. (relevant for the bathroom, kitchen).

Also used for mating coatings different types with a large difference in height.

Among the advantages - hidden system fastenings and good protection from water leakage

Flexible thresholds for laminate are indispensable when creating complex design floors, when you have to combine different materials, shapes, and heights.

They are also indispensable when decorating the joints of tiles and laminate.

This combination is often found in kitchens: in work area The flooring is made of tiles, and laminate flooring is installed in the dining area.

Using flexible laminate thresholds, joints near niches, columns, and arches are also decorated.

Such thresholds are made of hypoallergenic plastic or cork and supplied in rolls.

They are convenient to transport and easy to stack. The minimum bending radius is 30 cm in a heated state and 60 cm in a cold state.

A little about how to install a threshold on laminate flooring

Thresholds can be installed on laminate flooring different ways, depending on what type of fastening is intended for your product.

Holes for fasteners have already been made in the threshold at the factory.

To secure such a threshold, you need to attach it to the base of the floor, make markings and drill holes.

Plugs are driven into these holes and self-tapping screws are screwed into them.

It is necessary to properly prepare the base, namely, remove the foam lining in the area of ​​the sill and install a strip of hard plastic or plywood. This will protect against loosening of the screws and the plug itself in the base.

U open method fastenings have their advantages: low cost of thresholds, ease of installation.

But there are also disadvantages. The holes spoil the appearance; over time, they will begin to break and will no longer hold the threshold in place.

If you do not want to spoil the appearance of the floor, you can use thresholds with hidden fastenings. The basis of such a threshold is a guide that is attached to the base different ways.

Herringbone dowels

The dowel caps are inserted into the guide on back side threshold, holes are drilled at the base (the diameter is smaller than that of dowels). Then the threshold with dowels is inserted into the hole and driven in with a rubber mallet.

You can also use regular PVC cork. The method is very similar to open fastening. The only difference is that the dowels are not attached to the hole, but to a guide on the threshold.

Thresholds with mounting strip

Advantages: low bar height - no more than 1 mm, and ease of installation.

This method is different in reverse order actions.

First, the plank is attached (with self-tapping screws and plugs), then the laminate is laid, and lastly the threshold is installed.

Flex profile.

This is a threshold for laminate flooring with hidden fastening. It is made of high-strength PVC, can take any shape, and allows you to join different materials up to 25 mm thick.

The algorithm of actions is the same as in the previous case: the plank is attached - the covering is laid - the decorative part of the profile is installed.

Disadvantages of this method: high cost, necessity pre-installation planks. It is impossible to install flex profile thresholds after laying the floor.

How much do thresholds cost?

The price of thresholds can vary greatly depending on their type, material and manufacturer. We have given the estimated cost of some models in the table.

There are a huge variety of thresholds for laminate flooring. They differ not only in price, but also in material, purpose and methods of fastening.

When choosing thresholds, also take into account the specifics of the room where they will be used. Remember - correctly selected and installed thresholds will protect not only your floor, but also your nerves.

Modern living spaces are different original design, which suggests quite unusual combination flooring materials with different structures and textures. One of the favorite techniques of designers is to combine laminate and tiles. This is probably the best option zoning of living space.

When installing the final floor covering, it is often necessary to join the laminate and tiles. But no matter how hard you try, when uncovered, the joint is a gap with sharply defined boundaries, which does not look good on the new floor at all. To effectively hide it, special joining elements were invented - the so-called thresholds for laminate and tiles. Most often they are used when both flooring materials are laid in the same plane or the height difference is minimal - no more than 1 cm.

Purpose of thresholds

At first glance, this element is necessary only to improve the aesthetic component of the coating. But in practice, it performs a number of other, no less important functions. Timely installation of thresholds is not a labor-intensive process. Therefore, it is recommended to include them in the installation diagram and package in advance.

In practice, during the operation of the coating, a large amount of dust and dirt accumulates in the cracks formed by the two materials. It will take quite a bit of effort to remove it. By installing a connecting element, you can reduce the labor intensity of operating the floor. In addition to this factor, we note an improvement in the appearance of the coating.

Positive traits connecting elements:

  • Durability of the coating. The most vulnerable areas of a decorative floor are the edges. Under constant mechanical load, chips and cracks form at their edges. Thresholds for laminate flooring between rooms will perform a protective function;
  • Safety for residents while walking;
  • Ability to hide small defects. Most often these are level differences between different floor coverings;
  • Choice various models, differing not only in appearance, but also in material of manufacture, design and installation method.

It is important to choose the right thresholds for laminate flooring with hidden fastenings or a similar model with a different wiring diagram. To do this, you should familiarize yourself with their varieties.

The choice will be influenced not only by operational, but also specifications this mounting component. In particular, it is necessary to correctly calculate the width in order to completely cover the transition from tiles to wood flooring.

Installation of thresholds on laminate and other materials is carried out in various ways:

  • use of decorative thresholds;
  • joint to joint;
  • arrangement of podiums.

Types: multi-level, corner, finishing, straight

  • Leveling thresholds are designed to reduce the height amplitude between various coatings. With the help of similar structural elements it is possible to hide height differences in the range of 3–18 mm.
  • Straight thresholds between rooms are used to create joints between floors of the same height. The maximum possible height variation is no more than one millimeter.
  • Corner or staircase - have local application. They are used to fix the flooring near the steps. As a rule, they are made of rubber, since there is always a risk of slipping off the steps.
  • As a final step, they decorate the approaches to the balcony, the threshold of the hallway, or frame the edges on the podium floors. They are quite often used as a multi-level threshold between tiles and laminate.

According to the connection method, they are distinguished:

  • A metal strip with end-to-end fixation. It is a special strip that is used to cover the joint, pressing its edges to the floor. For mounting as one of possible options, use self-tapping screws equipped with a countersunk head. The plank is also effective when there is a difference in surface heights or imprecise trimming is performed. Silicone sealant can be used to seal the edges of the strip.

  • H-shaped profile. It looks like the letter H laid on its side. The bottom shelf starts under installed panels, then the tile is inserted into the opposite groove and laid on the glue. This leaves a gap that is rubbed out special composition for tiles, and from the side of the lamellas they are filled with sealant. Acrylic or silicone compounds are suitable for this.
  • H-shaped collapsible. It has two T-shaped bars that are connected by legs. The bar is installed in accordance with the boundaries of the joint and fixed. Having completed the installation, the upper part, the decorative one, is inserted into the clamp located on the lower part and snapped into place.

Besides important point is the choice of material of manufacture. For long term Without repair service, it is necessary to carefully check the quality of the product before purchasing it. The most popular remain aluminum models, since they have all the necessary properties - mechanical strength, do not corrode, can be painted in any color.

But in addition to them, it is possible to select the following types of final delimiters:

  • Plastic. A budget option, which can only be used if the surface is not subject to heavy loads. Also, a flexible threshold between and the laminate is used to create non-linear patterns.
  • From fiberboard. The advantage of this material is the appearance and harmonious combination with slats. Disadvantages include low mechanical strength. To create a pattern, a special film is applied to the surface of the fiberboard, which is protected with a layer of special transparent material.
  • Rubber. In fact, rubber is used during the manufacture of flexible thresholds. Sometimes polymers and other inorganic additives are added to the composition to create sufficient elasticity.
  • Cork. They are very rare, as they are characterized by high cost and insufficient mechanical strength. Area of ​​application: decorative closing of small cracks.

In addition to these types, manufacturers offer corner thresholds. They are mounted on the edges of steps to prevent slipping while walking.

In some cases, it is possible to use glass products. But at the same time, all safety requirements must be met, since a unique appearance is not the main priority when choosing.

How to install a threshold between tiles and laminate

Wood, plastic or aluminum are used to make decorative thresholds. In texture they can imitate wood, stone or even gem. All this is perfectly suitable for designing joints between slats and tiles. Aluminum accessories are more resistant to abrasion, meaning they last much longer.

Straight thresholds

The easiest way is to install straight thresholds. They tightly close the cracks and prevent dirt or moisture from entering the joining seam. This method is not without its drawbacks:

  • Such a transition cannot be called completely smooth, since it protrudes slightly;
  • It’s not always possible to choose an accessory to match the floor materials;
  • The screws used for fastening are sometimes visible on the surface, although today you can also find laminate thresholds with hidden fastening on the market.

Nevertheless, they are very popular. This is the most practical way to join materials.

  • into the floor along the joining line of the laminate and ceramic tiles drive in dowels. This is very easy to do, since all products that are presented today on construction market, there are special markings and symmetrical holes for fasteners. It is very easy to mark the base through them;
  • According to the markings made, drill holes on the base and screw the threshold with the screws that are included in the kit.
  • this doesn't concern wooden bases– the profile is attached to them immediately using self-tapping screws.

For hidden fastening, special glue or liquid nails are used. This method is quite labor-intensive, however, it is more aesthetically pleasing, since it allows you to hide the fasteners.

Make sure that the flooring material does not rest against the groove of the threshold. It is necessary to leave a compensation gap of at least 5 mm, which will prevent their linear deformation due to temperature changes.

How to install flexible thresholds

To create joints of complex shapes - curved or curved - use a flexible threshold between the tile and the laminate. Buy today these bands that are capable of taking the required form, you can find it in almost any building materials store.

Flexible thresholds consist of two parts. The bottom one, on which there is a groove-clip, is installed during the installation of the floor covering. Decorative insert snaps onto it later, on the finished floor finish.

These moldings in their normal state are characterized by a small bending radius. Therefore, they need to be softened before work. The plastic is either immersed in warm water for about 15 minutes or use construction hair dryer. The insert, ready for installation, is driven into the lower part of the profile with light blows. A mallet is most suitable; its rubber head will not cause any damage to the surface of the decorative strip.

Look how beautiful these thresholds look - photo:

How to dock without a threshold: connection methods

Today you can finish the joint between tiles and laminate without a threshold. With the proper degree of skill and experience, you can prevent the occurrence of noticeable level differences between two layers of material. There are several options for joining tiles and laminate flooring without a threshold. For each of them, you will need to change the standard coating installation scheme.

  • The first step is to prepare the subfloor. The ideal option is the same level of first and second coating. Therefore, you should calculate in advance the thickness of the substrate for the slats and the tile adhesive. After this, the process of laying the latter begins.
  • As soon as the border has formed, you can begin installation wooden covering. This will create a joint between the tiles and the laminate without a clear boundary. Once again, the emphasis needs to be on the same level. During the installation process it is allowed to use different kinds primers to form a single pattern. The only condition is safety of operation for wooden slats.
  • More challenging task is a connection of laminate and tiles without a wave-shaped threshold. In this case, prepare a mock-up of the form. For this purpose any suitable material, for example, a strip of thin-walled metal. The template is installed at the junction of the coatings. Then the pieces of tile are cut according to the resulting contours and installed on the subfloor. The same procedure is performed with lamellas. It is important that the workpieces fit tightly to the template. After final installation, it is removed and the joint is filled with primer. This is how the installation is done decorative surface using available means.

We present to your attention the most efficient technologies styling

  • Cork expansion joints. Although this is new material, but is already popular, since the transition turns out neat and very beautiful. Installation is carried out quickly, however, lengthy preparation is required. In addition, the materials are sawed very carefully to prevent any damage, even the slightest chips. This is due to the fact that the expansion joint is inserted into the joint between the coverings, and it must be even not only in width, but also in depth. To do this, when adjusting these materials to each other, leave a small gap of approximately 2 mm. They vary greatly in strength, and if upon direct contact the tile remains completely intact, then with laminate everything is completely different - the lamellas can become deformed or damaged. The compensator is placed in the joining seam. It is pushed inside using a regular screwdriver. The cork expansion joint does not require any special care or additional processing.

  • Sealants (foam, mastic, paste). In this way, you can hide joining seams of any shape, width and depth. The most important point is the choice of compensating material. It must have good adhesion to both surfaces, be strong and elastic. It should be taken into account that after processing the seam becomes permanent, that is, if repairs are necessary, the entire floor is dismantled. Processing of joints is carried out in the following sequence:
  • first they lay out the tiles, and when the glue has completely set, the lamellas are adjusted under it;
  • the lamellas should cover the tiles with some margin;
  • mark the exact cutting line;
  • the unnecessary part of the tile is very carefully cut off with a grinder;
  • Part of the backing is cut off from the lamellas so that at the seam the height of the joining surfaces is the same. Then the material is thoroughly sanded;
  • the laminate with the part from which the backing was cut is fixed to the screed with glue;
  • After the materials are tightly joined, begin sealing the seams.

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