Discover the secrets of the floor latch

  The 5G straight down latch system changes the floor installation for a whole new change, with a single movement for fast installation and clear acoustic feedback to ensure correct locking. On this basis, our newly launched 5G Dry water resistant latch system prevents water from infiltrating into floor joints and subfloors, thus effectively improving floor performance and service life.

  The floor is a fundamental element of any interior space, and the technology regarding its installation has evolved over the years.The floor is an indispensable element of any interior space, and the technology regarding its installation has evolved over the years. Bjelin's sister company Valinge Innovation is the inventor of the first generation of mechanical floor latch systems, so we had the opportunity to interview Laetitia Kimblad, Director of floor latch at Valinge Innovation, to delve into the history, development and future of this innovative technology.

The journey from the past to the present.

"The revolution in floor installation began in the 1990s when Valinge Inovation founder Darko Pervan and his son Tony invented the first generation of mechanical latch systems," "This first generation, called 1G, features an aluminum strip on the long and short sides of the floor. Alloc introduced this technology in its laminate flooring products in 1996 and presented it at the Hannover Domotex exhibition."

Laetitia highlights key milestones in the company's development: "In 2000, Valinge introduced a 2G latch system that was fully integrated into the floor panels, simplifying the production process and enhancing the installation experience. Over the years, our team has continued to refine and patent new latch systems to improve customer experience, adapt to different flooring products and meet specific requirements."

"The 5G straight down latch system changes the floor installation for a whole new change, with a single movement for fast installation and clear acoustic feedback to ensure correct locking. Building on this, our newly launched 5G Dry water resistant latch system prevents water from seeping into floor joints and subfloors, effectively improving floor performance and service life."

The 5G Dry water resistant latch system has been applied to Bjelin's Cured Wood 3.0 series.

Unique selling points of mechanical floor locking systems

Mechanical latch systems provide quick, easy and robust floor mounting. "This design ensures that the floors are firmly locked to each other, preventing gaps and height differences between the panels." "The high quality that comes with this technology is built into the product, ensuring the durability and reliability of the installation," Laetitia said.

"Sustainability is the cornerstone of our development. We recognize that a durable latch system helps extend the life of the floor. For example, the surface of the floor may be durable, but if there are gaps or even separations between the panels, replace the floor as well. Therefore, a solid latch is very important. Reusability and recyclability are also key factors."

Valinge Innovation has optimized the latch system to accommodate different materials. "We have developed a range of different latch systems, including our 5G latch system, that can be applied to a wide range of floor products with different thicknesses and structures."

Versatility is another area we explore. "You can lay out different patterns or install them on different surfaces." "Bjelin's product, for example, uses 5G Climb technology that allows floors to 'climb' up walls, demonstrating the endless possibilities," Laetitia revealed.

With 5G Climb technology, your floor can climb 'up' walls.

Expert tips for seamless installation

Laetitia has valuable advice for installers and DIY enthusiasts: "First, read the installation instructions carefully and watch the video. In particular, the 5G straight down latch system or the 5G Dry water resistant latch system does not require a hammer for installation. You only need to press with your hand or thumb to install it, so be sure to follow the instructions to avoid damaging the floor."

"Customers who experience the floor latch system for the first time often say 'Wow, that's easy' or 'Wow, it just clicks'. They like the sound the floor makes when it is installed correctly. Whether it's traditional 5G or 5G Dry, this is a feature of 5G straight down latch systems."

Installing flooring with 5G is very simple.

When it comes to grassroots ground preparation, this is also very important. Proper ground preparation at the grassroots level is critical. Uneven base floor will affect the integrity and performance of the locking system. In addition, choosing the right underlying material is also crucial for maintaining the quality of the floor.

"The floor can be removed in several different ways." "You can loosen a whole row of floors together, then flip the panels up or slide them off to get them out, or use our unlock bar," Laetitia suggests. If you have a large room where it is difficult to lift an entire row of floors, this method is convenient. You can insert the unlock bar below the 5G slot on the short side, push the slot back, and then move the floor to the open position. According to the different types of floor, with different models of unlocking bar.

The floor panel can be easily removed using the unlock bar.

Innovation for the future

What will the future of floor locks look like? "We are committed to pushing the envelope even further," Laetitia said. Sustainability and versatility are key drivers, and we're excited to continue to develop and shape the future of flooring."

Laetitia Kimblad started working at Valinge Innovation in 2012 as Key Account Manager, supporting patent licensee in Europe and South America who wanted to adopt Valinge latch technology in their flooring products. In 2016, she took charge of the floor Lock division, working closely with colleagues across the team from R&D to patents, supply, marketing and sales.