Unicoat is a patented edge-coating technology that delivers superior water-repellent protection. Applied during the production process, it prevents liquids from seeping through the joints and protects the coreboard from long-term water damage. The coating serves as a sealed barrier between the floor boards, eliminating the risk of water infiltration, commonly associated issues such as swelling and mold.
Unicoat significantly enhances the waterproof performance of flooring. It not only passes the industry-standard NALFA test, but also performs exceptionally well in more demanding wet-cleaning tests. Unicoat will make floors last longer, even under intensive use.
How it works
During manufacturing, Unicoat is precisely applied to targeted edge areas of the flooring panels. When the panels are locked together, the coating creates a sealed surface without altering the wood-based coreboard, making it a cost-effective solution for achieving high-performance waterproof floors.
Unicoat - Water-repellent edge-coating technology
The patented Unicoat technology has a triple purpose:
- Prevent leakages: The coating will prevent water from penetrating in between the joints of two flooring panels, preventing standing water beneath the floor that could lead to mold growth.
- Prevent long-lasting water damages: By forming a protective layer over the coreboard, such as HDF, Unicoat minimizes moisture absorption and eliminates swelling. This prevents raised edges and premature surface wear.
- Prevent discoloration: Because of the shielding layer, liquids remain in the form of droplets on the surface. This stops water from seeping into the nerves and discoloring the wood layer.
To reach the ultimate waterproof properties with Unicoat, it is best used in combination with one of the Unilin locking systems, which feature pretension designed to maximize water resistance.
How waterproof flooring is tested at Unilin Technologies
At Unilin Technologies, we believe that a waterproof floor should prevent both water seeping through the joints of a floor and long-lasting swelling damages. Here is how we test it.
NALFA test
A cylinder with water is placed on the T-joint of a floor. Swelling is measured at the start, after 24 hours (post water removal, called the wet measurement), and again after 48 hours (the dry measurement). This test evaluates long-term swelling but not watertightness.
Unicoat exceeds industry standards, even in extended tests up to 72 or 100 hours.
Cylinder test without leaks
A cylinder with colored water is placed on the T-joint of a floor. A white paper underneath the floor or a camera detects any water that seeps through the joint. Unicoat has proven to prevent leakages up to 100 hours and above.
Unicoat - Water-repellent coating technology
Unicoat keeps moisture on the surface, where it can evaporate or be wiped away, resulting in worry-free flooring and fewer consumer complaints. Its sealed surface also simplifies wet cleaning: dirt, bacteria, and liquids can be easily removed with a damp cloth, leaving a clean, dry, and hygienic floor with no damage.