Lock & Fold Hardwood Floors?

Lock and fold type hardwood floors are systems that have a special milled interlocking system built in. They are similar to other floating floors in that they require a sound flat and clean subfloor to work with. Any irregularities can cause the locking mechanisms to malfunction or not lock entirely.

Considering these products are very new, there has not been enough time to properly evaluate these systems. Unknown is how they actually perform in relation to moisture level changes that commonly occur with seasonal weather changes.

There is absolutely no doubt these lock and folds could be the DIY solution of the future as we cannot think or find a more simple application for hardwood floors. Industry leader Bruce hardwood was the first to introduce the lock and fold function through Home Depot and Lowes in early 2007.  Other products include Mirage, a high quality Canadian manufacturer and their patented Mirage Lock.

How Are They Installed?

Unlike more common glued floating floors this system requires the groove facing out from the starting wall. Adjacent end pieces are placed next to each other. The groove system has a small slotted area that accepts additional boards that contain a small ridge that hold the two together once they are engaged. They remain connected and will not loosen unless force is created from underneath. This is why a flat subfloor is important. Even a small protruding subfloor nail can keep the locking system from functioning properly.

For additional rows, boards are inserted by tongue into groove at an angle. Angle insertion allows the boards to easily accept one another. Once it appears tight, a downward force is placed on the new plank for the system to connect or lock. Depending on product quality, a tapping block may be necessary to insure a tight, gap free installation. Care should be brought to attention as these systems are more fragile (before installation) than common floating floors. Any damage caused by tapping can alter the integrity of the lock and fold functions.

These types of floors do present one problem also common with click type floating floors. When it comes to the last row or installing under door casings the groove has to be altered by shaving so the boards can slide into place.

All lock and fold floors are engineered with some being constructed in ply layers while others contain a medium density fiberboard (common with laminate floors). Installation time will be much faster than common floating glued floors where a common three inch width is used. Older wide plank floating floors on the other hand will generally take the least amount of time because of their longer lengths.

Where Are They Installed?

Lock and fold floors can be installed in areas like any other engineered floors including basements. Not only is floor preparation a key to any successful installation, but moisture testing as well.