Locking System Explained Click Systems • Floating LVT/LVP • What Locking Really Means
Locking systems are a common spec listed for floating LVT. This page explains what locking mechanisms are, how they appear on technical data sheets, and which related specs are often evaluated alongside them. Reference-only: no installation or product advice.
A locking system is the shaped edge profile that allows floating LVT planks or tiles to mechanically connect plank-to-plank. It helps the floor function as a single connected surface, but it does not describe wear resistance, surface durability, or overall product quality by itself.
Common Locking System Terminology
| Term | What It Usually Means | Appears On | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Click / Click-lock | Generic term for mechanical edge connections in floating floors. | Product specs, marketing | Does not describe a single standardized system. |
| Angle-angle | Planks engage by angling one edge into another. | Technical descriptions | Describes motion, not strength. |
| Angle-drop / Fold-down | One edge angles in, the opposite edge drops into place. | Technical sheets | Common in rigid core planks. |
| Uniclic / I4F / Valinge | Proprietary locking profile families licensed by manufacturers. | Spec sheets, patents | Licensing does not equal performance. |
Quick Explainers
What the Locking System Actually Affects
The locking system affects how planks connect and move together as a floating surface. It does not define surface wear, scratch resistance, or lifespan on its own.
Why Locking Systems Aren’t Directly Comparable
Locking profiles vary by geometry, tolerances, and material. Two products can list similar locking terms but perform differently due to core density, plank thickness, and manufacturing precision.
Locking System vs Glue-Down Installation
Locking systems are associated with floating floors. Glue-down LVT relies on adhesive bonding and does not use mechanical locking edges.
FAQ
Does a better locking system mean a better floor? ⌄
Not by itself. Locking systems are one part of the overall construction and should be evaluated alongside wear layer, core type, and other specs.
Are locking systems standardized? ⌄
No. Many systems are proprietary or described using broad marketing terms, even though they all perform the same basic function.