Floor covering comprising floor strips, and floor strips used therein

Abstract

Floor covering comprising a plurality of floor strips (2), said floor strips (2) comprising a substrate (3) and a provided thereon decorative top layer (4), wherein said floor strips (2) on at least two opposite edges (5-6) comprise profiled edges, wherein the profiled edge at a first one (5) of said two opposite edges comprises a lower lip (7) and the profiled edge at a second one (6) of said two opposite edges comprises an upper lip (8), characterized in that in said floor covering (1) said upper lip (8) of a first strip (2 A) vertically overlaps said lower lip (7) of at least a second strip (2B) and wherein a recess (9) in said floor covering (1) is formed by a first generally vertically extending surface (10) and a second generally vertically extending surface (11) and a bottom portion (12) connecting said first and second generally vertically extending surfaces (10-11), wherein said first generally vertically extending surface (10) is formed by a distal portion of said upper lip (8) of said first strip (2A), said second generally vertically extending surface (11) is formed by a portion of the profiled edge at said first one (5) of said two opposite edges (5-6) of said second strip (2B).

Description

[0001] Floor covering comprising floor strips, and floor strips used therein.

[0002] The present invention relates to a floor covering comprising floor strips, and floor strips used therein. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing said floor strips.

[0003] More particularly the invention relates to such floor coverings that are assembled from gluedown LVT, dryback LVT or looselay LVT (luxury vinyl tile). Herein the invention aims at imitating a grouted floor. Preferably the floor strips have a decorative top layer being or imitating a stone or ceramic material.

[0004] The invention is defined in the claims. The invention provides a floor covering which may imitate a grouted floor in an aesthetic manner and preferably also allows easy installation of said floor covering.

[0005] The invention relates to a floor covering comprising a plurality of floor strips, said floor strips comprising a substrate and a provided thereon decorative top layer, wherein said floor strips on at least two opposite edges comprise profiled edges, wherein the profiled edge at a first one of said two opposite edges comprises a lower lip and the profiled edge at a second one of said two opposite edges comprises an upper lip, wherein in said floor covering, said upper lip of a first strip vertically overlaps said lower lip of at least a second strip and wherein a recess in said floor covering is formed by a first upstanding surface, said first upstanding surface preferably being a generally vertically extending surface, and a second upstanding surface, said second upstanding surface preferably being a generally vertically extending surface, and a bottom portion connecting said first and second upstanding surfaces, wherein said first upstanding surface is formed by a distal portion of said upper lip of said first strip, said second upstanding surface is formed by a portion of the profiled edge at said first one of said two opposite edges of said second strip. The decor of said decorative top layer is preferably chosen such that the strips imitate a natural stone or a ceramic tile. The decor can comprise a printed decor or can be a uniform color.

[0006] The floor strips are preferably rectangular, elongate or square, such that said floor strips comprise a first pair of two opposite edges comprising said profiled edges and a second pair of opposite edges. Said second pair of opposite edges preferably comprise similar shaped profiled edges as the first pair of opposite edges. Of course, the floor strips can also have other polygon shapes such as a hexagon shape or an octagon shape.

[0007] Said floor strips of the floor covering can all have the same dimensions, but floor strips with different dimensions are also possible.

[0008] Said floor strips, with regard to the profiled edges of the opposite edges and the dimensions, can all be identical. Said floor strips can also comprise, with regard to the profiled edges, at least a first type of floor strips (A floor strips) and a second type of floor strips (B floor strips), wherein the profiled edges of opposite edges of the second type of floor strips are mirror-inverted with regard to profiled edges of the first type of panels. Such A floor strips and B floor strips can be used for a floor covering with a herringbone pattern or other complex installation patterns.

[0009] The cross-section of said recess can be substantially U-shaped. Other shapes are also possible. Some possibilities are shown in the figures. The cross-section of the recess can have for example a curved gutter-shaped recess. Said U-shape can be with rounded corners or with (rather) straight comers.

[0010] The lower lip is preferably completely located in the substrate.

[0011] The lower lip preferably forms the most distal end of the first one of said two opposite edges, and said lower lip extends distally beyond the first upstanding surface. Said first upstanding surface being located above said lower lip. The upper lip preferably forms the most distal end of the second one of said two opposite edges, and said upper lip extends distally beyond a third upstanding surface of the second one of said two opposite edges. Said third upstanding surface being located below said upper lip. The lower lip preferably abuts the third upstanding surface, and as such forming abutting surfaces.

[0012] Said upper lip of the first strip preferably vertically overlaps a part of said lower lip of at least the second strip, such that the most distal end of the lower lip is overlapped.

[0013] Said upper lip of the first strip preferably rests upon the lower lip of the second strip. In such a way a dimensionally stable floor covering can be obtained with upper surfaces of the decorative top layers of the strips all laying the same plane. Said upper surfaces of the decorative top layers can be indicated as general upper surfaces of the floor strips.

[0014] Said profiled edges can be obtained by machining operations, for example can be obtained by milling with milling tools, preferably rotating milling tools. Said profiled edges can also be obtained by extrusion. Said profiled edges can be obtained by a combination of extrusion and milling.

[0015] Floor strips of the floor covering according to the invention, can be easily installed by placing an upper lip of the first floor strip on top of the lower lip of the second floor strip. Of course it is also possible to slide the lower lip of the second floor strip under the upper lip of the first floor strip. Further penetration of water or other liquids between two strips are hindered by said upper lip and lower lip.

[0016] In a very preferred embodiment said bottom portion is formed by an upper surface of said lower lip of said second strip. Said upper surface can or cannot be treated with an additional substance, such as a lacquer and / or a liquid and / or a dye and / or a primer. It is also possible that said upper surface is treated with two or more additional substances. A said additional substance can provide said upper surface with anti-staining properties and / or water-resistant properties and / or a grout color, etc. Preferably a said additional substance at least provides said upper surface with anti-staining properties. Also preferably a said additional substance at least provides said upper surface with water- repellent properties. Said upper surface can for example be treated with a lacquer and / or a dye to provide said upper surface with a certain color and / or decor, for example a grout color, and said upper surface can also be treated with a liquid to provide the upper surface with water-repellent properties and / or anti-stain properties. So said upper surface can be treated with a water-repellent liquid and with a pigmented lacquer. If one wants to have an upper surface which can be provided later on, for example before, during or after installation, with the desired color, one can provide said upper surface with a primer. Such a primer can allow the upper surface to be coloured with the desired color, for example with the aid of a marker or the like. Even more beneficial the latter allows to recolor the upper surface later on with a marker, such that the color of the upper surface is changeable.

[0017] Further preferably, if said upper surface is treated with one or more additional substances as mentioned above, also said first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface can be treated with the same one or more additional substances or with other one or more additional substances as mentioned above. Most preferably, the first upstanding surface, the upper surface and the second upstanding surface are treated with one or more additional substances as mentioned above.

[0018] Preferably the first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion have a decoration separate from said decorative top layer. Said decoration can be separately provided or can be the result of the material of the floor strip.

[0019] Preferably the first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion are provided with a decoration separate from said decorative top layer, wherein said decoration is preferably a uniformly colored decoration and / or a liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye. Said decoration is preferably applied upon the upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion, after the formation of said profiled edge. Said decoration is for example applied by treating the first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the upper surface of the lower lip with one or more of the above-mentioned substances. The decoration may form a grout imitation, in which case it may have a greyish or black color potentially comprising effect pigments to imitate glossy minerals. If the upper surface of said bottom portion is formed by an upper surface of said lower lip of said second strip, then said upper surface is preferably provided with a said decoration after formation of said profiled edge. Said decoration can, in addition to the desired aesthetics, provide the floor covering with additional characteristics, such as water-resistant properties, e.g. such that water will not penetrate between two strips or is at least hindered, and / or anti-stain properties. Preferably the first upstanding surface and the second upstanding surface and the bottom portion are provided with said decoration such that the recess has a uniform decoration. If the depth of the recess is limited with regard to the total thickness of the floor strip, for example is less than 20% of the total thickness of the floor strip or less than 10% of the total thickness of the floor strip, it is possible to only provide a said decoration upon the bottom surface. If the bottom portion already has a desirable look and / or color, it is possible to only provide a liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye upon the first upstanding surface and upon the second upstanding surface and / or to provide a transparent liquid with anti-stain properties and / or water-repellent properties. Most preferably, a said decoration is a lacquer. And most preferably, if a said liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye is used, the same is applied upon the first upstanding surface and the second upstanding surface and the upper surface of the lower lip.

[0020] The bottom portion itself can already have the desired look, e.g. the desired color. For example if said upper surface of the lower lip is formed in the substrate, the color of the substrate can be the desired color for the upper surface. Here said bottom portion has a decoration separate from said decorative top layer, but said decoration is not applied separately after forming said profiled edge.

[0021] In an embodiment the first upstanding surface, the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion are provided with a transparent lacquer. This is interesting if the first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion already have the desired color or look, but one wants to provide additional characteristics such as water-resistant properties or anti-stain properties. In a specific embodiment the first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion are formed in the material of said substrate and said decorative top layer. For example said first and second upstanding surface can go through the decorative layer into the substrate and said bottom portion can be completely located in the substrate.

[0022] Of course embodiments wherein some of said first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion are formed in the material of said substrate and / or said decorative top layer and wherein others of said first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion are provided with a decoration separate of said decorative top layer, are also possible.

[0023] In a very preferred embodiment said lower lip of said second strip contacts the profiled edge at said second one of said two opposite edges of said first strip at abutting surfaces. Preferably said abutting surface of the lower lip forms the most distal end of said second strip. These abutting surfaces enhance the ease of installation. With the aid of said abutting surfaces, the floor covering can be easily installed and this with the width of said recesses between floor strips being similar and / or the desired width. Of course, it is not obliged that for all the floor strips of the floor covering, said lower lip of said second strip contacts the profiled edge at said second one of said two opposite edges of said first strip at abutting surfaces. This allows to install easily in rooms with different dimensions and / or non-square rooms, e.g. rooms in which small constructions errors have occurred.

[0024] Further preferably said abutting surfaces are positioned vertically beneath said upper lip of said first strip.

[0025] Also further preferably the dimensions of said abutting surfaces in the vertical direction take up at least 10 percent of the total thickness of the floor strips, more preferably at least 20 percent, most preferably at least 30 percent. This provides a stable abutting of floor strips. The ratio between the dimension of said abutting surfaces in the vertical direction and the total thickness of the floor strips can be between 0,1 and 0,5, and is preferably between 0,2 and 0,4, for example 0,25 or 0,3 or 0,35. Further, very preferably, said abutting surfaces prevent movement of said first strip and second strip towards each other at the respective edges .

[0026] In a specific embodiment, said abutting surfaces prevent movement of said first strip with regard to said second strip and vice versa in a vertical direction. Said abutting surfaces for example comprise corresponding coupling parts which prevent movement of said first strip with regard to said second strip and vice versa in a vertical direction. More preferably, said abutting surfaces also prevent movement of said first strip and second strip towards each other at the respective edges.

[0027] Further preferably said abutting surfaces are oriented vertically or essentially vertically.

[0028] In a specific embodiment said abutting surfaces respectively comprise a bulge-shaped portion and a corresponding indentation-shaped portion, wherein preferably said bulgeshaped portion, e.g. a bulge, and said indentation-shaped portion, e.g. an indentation corresponding to the bulge, are each located between two vertically or essentially vertically shaped portions. Said vertically or essentially vertically shaped portions can take up at least 70 percentage of the total dimension of said abutting surfaces in the vertical direction, such that said abutting surfaces are then oriented essentially vertically. A said bulge and indentation prevent vertical separation of two floor strips and also ensure good levelling of the floor strips relative to each other. Said bulge can have a rounded surface or can have straight corners, for example the bulge has a cross section with a semi-circle shape or a rectangular shape or a triangular shape.

[0029] Further, in a very preferred embodiment, a space is available between the profiled edges of said first strip and second strip beneath, and potentially also above, said abutting surfaces. If a said space is present beneath said abutting surfaces, this is beneficial if said floor strips are provided to be glued to an underground, e.g. if said floor strips are of the gluedown type. Glue can accumulate in said space to better attach the floor strips to the underground and to better keep the floor strips in their desired position with regard to each other. Also an installation aid / attachment piece can be present in a said space. For example a said installation aid / attachment piece can be glued to an underground. Said space can be formed by a first bottom recess at the lower side / bottom of the second one of said opposite edges of the first strip and / or by a second bottom recess at the lower side / bottom of a said lower lip of the second strip. Preferably said space is formed by the first bottom recess and the second bottom recess, wherein both said bottom recesses lie against each other and as such form said space. Of course said space can only be formed by the first bottom recess, with a second bottom recess not being present or said space can only by formed by the second bottom recess, with the first bottom recess not being present. Said space can have a triangle shaped cross section. For example said space can be formed by a said second bottom recess and / or a said first bottom recess with a rightangle triangle shaped cross section. If said space is formed by a first bottom recess with a right angle triangle shaped cross section and a second bottom recess with a right-angled triangle shaped cross-section, then the cross section of said space preferably has the shape of an isosceles triangle. Such shapes can be easily obtained by milling, e.g. by rotating milling tools.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the length by which said upper lip of said first strip vertically overlaps said lower lip of said second strip is less than 50%, or even less than 30% of the length by which said lower lip extends beyond the upper edge of said second strip. The result is that a sufficient amount of the upper surface of the lower lip is not covered by the upper lip, such that an aesthetic looking grout imitation can be obtained. A sufficient amount of the lower lip can be covered by the upper lip, such that a sufficient coupling is obtained. The length by which the upper lip extends beyond said respective abutting surface of the first strip (if present), is preferably smaller than the length by which said lower lip extends beyond the upper edge of said second strip, preferably at least less than half the length by which said lower lip extends beyond the upper edge of said second strip. To form said upper lip, little material needs to be removed from the first strip.

[0031] More preferably the length by which said upper lip of said first strip vertically overlaps said lower lip of said second strip is at least 5%, or even at least 10%, or even more at least 20%, of the length by which said lower lip extends beyond the upper edge of said second strip. A stable connection between floor strips can be obtained in this manner. For example the upper lip can have a length of between 0,5 and 1,5 mm, while the lower lip has a length of between 2,5 and 3,5 mm, such that the recess has a width of between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably between 1,5 and 2,5 mm, for example 2 mm.

[0032] In a very preferred embodiment said first upstanding surface and second upstanding surface extend through said decorative top layer into said substrate. The result is a sufficiently deep recess, which can result in a very aesthetic grout imitation.

[0033] Preferably said decorative top layer comprises at least a print layer and a wear layer applied on top of said print layer. Said print layer is for example an analogous printed sheet or a digitally printed sheet. Said sheet is preferably a thermoplastic sheet, e.g. a sheet comprising thermoplastic material and optionally filler material -such as CaCCh or another inorganic material or such as wood fibers- and optionally plasticizers. Alternatively said sheet can be a paper, such as a resin impregnated paper. The wear layer can be thermoplastic sheet or can be translucent / transparent paper. Said print layer can also be a print directly applied upon said substrate. With directly applied is indicated that said print is printed upon the substrate. This does however not exclude that an additional layer, such as a primer, is applied upon said substrate before printing upon the substrate.

[0034] Preferably said decorative top layer forms a general upper surface of said first strip, respectively second strip, and in that said first upstanding surface and second upstanding surface comprise a bevelled surface extending at least partially in the decorative top layer, and preferably connecting to the general upper surface of said first strip, respectively second strip. A said bevel can be formed with milling tools. Preferably, if said decorative top layer comprises said wear layer and said print layer, said bevelled surface extends only in said wear layer, such that the bevelled surface is located completely above the print layer. Said bevelled surface can or cannot be provided with a decoration separate from said decorative layer. For example if said bevelled surface is made in the wear layer, the decoration can be the same as the decorative layer. Said bevelled surface can also be treated with a liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye, preferably the same as used for the rest of the first and / or second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion. Further preferably said bevelled surface in itself extends at a shallow angle with the horizontal plane, for example at an angle of 25° or less, preferably 15° or less, for example about 11°.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment said first upstanding surface and second upstanding surface comprise a portion extending at an angle from 0° to 10° with the vertical, wherein said portion preferably forms the majority of said first and second upstanding surfaces. A slight inclination with the vertical may be beneficial in the provision of a decoration separate from said decorative top layer, as mentioned above, wherein said decoration is for example a uniformly colored decoration and / or a liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye. Preferably, if a said bevelled surface is present, said first upstanding surface and said second upstanding surface only comprise said bevelled surface and said portion extending at an angle from 0° and 10°, with the bevelled surface being present above said portion. If no bevelled surface is present, said first upstanding surface and second upstanding surface preferably only comprise said portion extending at an angle from 0° to 10° with the vertical, with said portion than preferably connecting to the general upper surface.

[0036] Further preferably said portion extends at least in said substrate, and potentially in said print layer and / or wear layer. Preferably said portion connects to said bevelled surface, when available, with the bevelled surface than connecting to the general upper surface, or, when the bevelled surface is not present, the portion connects to the general upper surface of the respective strip.

[0037] Further preferably, in coupled condition, the largest horizontal distance between said portion on said first upstanding surface and said portion on said second upstanding surface is at least 25% of the thickness of said strips, or at least 50% of the thickness of said strips. The gap between said first and second upstanding surface is sufficiently large to ensure an aesthetic grout imitation.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment said bottom portion extends completely at a depth situated above the center of the thickness of the respective strip. Said floor strips are preferably floor strips of so-called gluedown LVT, dryback LVT or looselay LVT (luxury vinyl tile).

[0039] In a preferred embodiment said substrate comprises at least polyvinylchloride and fillers, for example at least 50 wt% of fillers. Said fillers are preferably inorganic fillers, such as CaCCh or limestone or talcum.

[0040] Further preferably said substrate comprises plasticizers, preferably at least 15 phr of plasticizers, and / or in that said substrate comprises soft or semi-rigid PVC. The floor strips have a certain flexibility, which is beneficial for ease of installation.

[0041] Also further preferably, said substrate has a thickness of 2.5 mm or less, preferably a thickness of 2,5 mm or less. Preferably the shape of the profiled edges are as disclosed in the embodiments mentioned above. Such profiled edges can be obtained by milling, for example by rotating milling tools, even in floor strips with thin substrates.

[0042] Preferably, the floor strips have a thickness of 3,5 mm or less, preferably a thickness of about 2,5 mm. Preferably the shape of the profiled edges are as disclosed in the embodiments mentioned above. Such profiled edges can be obtained by milling, for example by rotating milling tools, even in thin floor strips. The thickness of the upper lip can be between 20 and 40 percent of the total thickness of a said floor strip, for example between 0,8 and 1 mm if the total thickness is 2,5 mm. The thickness of the lower lip is then between 60 and 80 percent of the total thickness, wherein the sum of the thickness of the lower lip and the thickness of the upper lip preferably equals the total thickness of the floor strip.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, said decorative top layer is substantially made from polyvinylchloride (PVC), for example with a decorative top layer comprising a print layer formed by a printed PVC foil and a provided thereon wear layer of PVC, preferably soft PVC, and preferably further a lacquer layer provided on said wear layer, for example an acrylic or urethane lacquer layer and / or a UV and / or excimer cured lacquer layer. In a very preferred embodiment, said floor strips are glued or otherwise adhered to the subfloor or to an underlayment. If glue is used, than preferably said space is available between the profiled edges of said first strip and second strip beneath said abutting surfaces. Glue can accumulate in said space and as such provide a strong connection of the floor covering to the subfloor of underlayment. Said floor strips can for example be attached to an underfloor, said underfloor can for example be provided on roll and can for example comprise a surface with an adhesive, e.g. a sticky surface, which is, before installation, covered with a release foil. By removing said release foil, said adhesive becomes available for gluing / adhering said floor strips to said underfloor.

[0044] In a specific embodiment said floor strips are rectangular, with a pair of long opposite edges and a pair of short opposite edges, and that said two opposite edges are the pair of long opposite edges. Preferably the pair of short edges have same or similar profiled edges as the long edges

[0045] In a very preferred embodiment said upper lip and said lower lip are free or essentially free from surfaces preventing the moving apart of said first strip and said second strip in a horizontal direction in the plane of the floor covering and perpendicular to the related edges. This enhances the ease of installation and said profiled edges can also be easily formed by milling. Further said floor covering is preferably glued or otherwise adhered to a floor, subfloor or underlayment, such that there is no need for surfaces preventing the moving apart of said first strip and said second strip in a horizontal direction in the plane of the floor covering and perpendicular to the related edges.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment the bottom of said upper lip extends essentially horizontal and / or is free from back cuts and / or free from surfaces hindering the moving apart of said lower lip and said upper lip in a horizontal direction in the plane of the floor covering and perpendicular to the related edges. A profiled edge with such an upper lip can be easily manufactured, e.g. with the aid of (rotating) milling tools and / or by extrusion and / or by cutting knives. In a very preferred embodiment the bottom of said upper lip and an upper portion of said lower lip that is overlapped by said upper lip are substantially coplanar, or coplanar, preferably horizontal or inclined at an angle of less than 45° with the horizontal. This allows the upper lip to at least partially rest upon the lower lip. Further preferably, if said abutting surfaces are present, said upper portion of said lower lip is preferably distanced from the abutting surfaces at least, mainly or exclusively by a downwardly inclined portion. This enhances the ease of installation and further, if said profiled edges are obtained by milling, milling tolerances can be better taken into account. For example, the downwardly inclined portion can have a specific length and / or inclination. For example the inclination can be between 5° and 30° with the horizontal, for example can be 10°, 20°, 25°. The length can be between 2 and 25 percent of the total length of the lower lip, for example 5 percent or 10 percent or 15 percent or 20 percent.

[0047] In a specific embodiment, at the height of the overlap between the upper lip and the lower lip, the upper lip is glued or otherwise attached to the lower lip. This can be done with the aid of a glue / adhesive. For example when installing the floor covering, the bottoms of said upper lips of the floor strips can be provided with an adhesive, which is for example covered with a release sheet, wherein, during installation of said floor covering, the release sheet is removed and this to glue the upper lip to a said lower lip.

[0048] In a specific embodiment, a said floor strip comprises on its general upper surface one or more grooves, for example provided parallel and / or diagonally with said opposite edges, wherein a cross section of a said groove preferably has a similar cross-section as a said recess. Said groove preferably ends in a said recess. A said groove can be made by milling. Preferably the dimension of a said groove according to a vertical direction, is similar to the dimensions of said recesses. Complex laying patterns can be easily simulated with the aid of such grooves. Preferably said grooves have been treated with one or more substances chosen from the list of: a lacquer and / or a liquid and / or a dye and / or a primer. More preferably said grooves have been treated with the same one or more substances as the upper surface of a corresponding bottom portion. Preferably said grooves have a decoration separate from said decorative top layer and more preferably the same decoration as the first upstanding surface and / or the second upstanding surface and / or the bottom portion, e.g. a uniformly colored decoration and / or a liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye. Said groove then has the desired look. If said floor strips are made of thermoplastic material, than said groove will be water-resistant, such that a treatment with a substance to provide water-repellent properties is not needed, but treatments with a substance to provide anti-staining properties are desirable.

[0049] Further preferably, said groove comprises a first upstanding surface, a bottom surface and second upstanding surface, wherein said first upstanding surface and / or said second upstanding surface extends at an angle from 0° to 10° with the vertical, and wherein said bottom surface preferably extends horizontally. With such angles, the first upstanding surface and / or the bottom surface can be more easily treated with above-mentioned one or more substances.

[0050] Of course, the floor strips can also be attached, for example glued to a wall. In this case, the floor strips are wall strips which form a wall covering. The floor covering according to the invention, can thus also be wall covering. The invention therefore also relates to a wall covering comprising wall strips, with said wall covering having the same characteristic as the floor covering indicated above.

[0051] The invention also relates to a floor strip as such, suitable for use in a floor covering as described above, wherein said floor strips comprise a substrate and a provided thereon decorative top layer, wherein said floor strips on at least two opposite edges comprise profiled edges, wherein the profiled edge at a first one of said two opposite edges comprises a lower lip and the profiled edge at a second one of said two opposite edges comprises an upper lip. It is clear that such floor strips may further have additional characteristics as described above and / or as shown in the figures, all enabling forming a floor covering in accordance with the invention.

[0052] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing floor strips for a floor covering according to the invention, wherein said profiled edges are milled with the aid of milling tools, preferably by rotating milling tools. Said recesses of the floor covering are preferably free from a grout material. However it is not excluded that said recess is filled up with grout material. Said grout material can be a paste that is applied in said recess and which hardens. The benefit of such a grout material is that water cannot penetrate between floor strips. Said grout material can also be easily supplied in different colors. Said grout material can also be a strap, such as a plastic strap and / or rubber strap, which is applied in said recess and which preferably is form fit with said recess. A said strap can easily be supplied in different colors. Said strap can or cannot be removable. If it is removable, one can change grout color and / or replace broken parts of the grout material.

[0053] The invention is further elucidated by means of the figures, wherein the reference numerals are defined in the claims. With the intention of better showing the characteristics of the invention, herein below, as an example without any limitative character, embodiments of the invention are described, with reference to the following figures:

[0054] Figure 1 illustrates a floor covering in accordance with claim 1;

[0055] Figure 2 gives a cross-section at a larger scale in accordance with the line II-II in figure 1;

[0056] Figure 3 in a same view as figure 2 shows a variant, wherein in the first generally vertically extending surface, the second generally vertically extending surface and the bottom portion are provided with a decoration separate from said decorative top layer;

[0057] Figures 4, 5 and 6 illustrate another variant, wherein figures 4 and 5 show two opposite edges of a floor strip, and figure 6 illustrate the cooperation of such profiled edges in an installed condition;

[0058] Figure 7 illustrates some steps in a method for manufacturing the floor strip of figures 4 to 6;

[0059] Figure 8 in a same view as figure 3 shows another variant;

[0060] Figure 9 and 10 in an enlarged view on the area indicated with F9 in figure 8 illustrate further variants; Figure 11 illustrates a floor covering in accordance with claim 1, wherein the floor covering comprises floor strips with different shapes and with or without grooves on its general upper surface;

[0061] Figure 12 illustrates an embodiment of a floor strip for a floor covering in accordance with claim 1;

[0062] Figure 13 gives a cross-section of the floor strip of figure 12 at a larger scale in accordance with the line XIII-XIII;

[0063] Figures 14, 15 and 16, in a same view as figure 2, show other variants.

[0064] The floor covering 1 shown in figure 1 comprises a plurality of floor strips 2-2A-2B. Also the floor covering 1 shown in figure 11 comprises a plurality of floor strips 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D. Said floor strips 2-comprise a substrate 3 and a provided thereon decorative top layer 4, wherein said floor strips 2-on at least two opposite edges 5-6 comprise profiled edges, wherein the profiled edge at a first one 5 of said two opposite edges comprises a lower lip 7 and the profiled edge at a second one 6 of said two opposite edges comprises an upper lip 8. As can be seen in figures 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15 and 16, said upper lip 8 of a first strip 2A vertically overlaps said lower lip 7 of at least a second strip 2B, and a recess 9 in said floor covering 1 is formed. Said recess 9 is formed by a first upstanding surface 10, said first upstanding surface 10 being a generally vertically extending surface 10 in figures 2, 3, 6 and 8 and 9, and a second upstanding surface 11, said second upstanding surface 11 being a generally vertically extending surface 11 in figures 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16, and a bottom portion 12 connecting said first and second upstanding surfaces 10-11. Said first upstanding surface 10 is formed by a distal portion of said upper lip 8 of said first strip 2A, said second upstanding surface 11 is formed by a portion of the profiled edge at said first one 5 of said two opposite edges 5- 6 of said second strip 2B. Said bottom portion 12 is formed by an upper surface 25 of said lower lip 7 of said second strip 2B. The recess 9 can have a U-shaped cross-section with right-angles corners, as shown in figures 2 and 3. The recess 9 can have a U-shaped cross-section with one or more curved corners, as shown in figures 6 and 8. The recess 9 can have a curved gutter shaped cross section as shown in figure 10. Other shapes, such as shown in figure 9 are also possible. Said first upstanding surface 10 and second upstanding surface 11 extend through said decorative top layer 4 into said substrate 3.

[0065] Said decorative top layer 4 comprises a print layer 16 and a wear layer 17 applied on top of said print layer 16.

[0066] With respect to figure 7, it is remarked that for profiling said two opposite edges 5-6 of the floor strip 2 in figure 6, figures 7 illustrates from bottom to top, in this case, four milling steps used for profiling each of the two opposite sides 5-6. The floor strips 2 are positioned with their decorative top layer 4 directed downwards. The milling tools 27 are rotating milling tools. Any other pair of opposite edges can be profiled similarly using similar tools and method steps. The floor strips 2 profiled by the method shown in figure 7 can be the floor strips 2 shown in figures 4, 5 and 6. The total thickness T of said floor strips 2 is for example 2,5 mm, with the thickness T3 of the substrate 3 being smaller than 2,5 mm. The length LV by which the upper lip 8 extends beyond an abutting surface 14 (see further) can be 1 mm. The thickness T8 of said upper lip 8 is for example 0,85 mm. The length LV by which the lower lip 7 extends beyond the second upstanding surface 11 can be 3 mm. The result, in coupled condition of said floor strips 2, is a recess 9 with a width HD of 2 mm. The length LV by which said upper lip 8 of a said first strip 2 vertically overlaps said lower lip 7 of a said second strip 2 is here 1 / 3 of the length LL by which said lower lip 7 extends beyond the decorative top layer 4 of said second strip 2B.

[0067] The floor strips 2 shown in the figures are rectangular, with a pair of opposite long edges 5-6 and a pair of opposite short edges 22-23. The profiles of the opposite short edges 22- 23 are preferably similar to the profiles of the pair of opposite long edges 5-6. For one floor strip 200D in figure 11 and for the floor strip 2 shown in figure 12, the length of the pair of opposite long edges and the pair of opposite short edges is the same, such that these floor strips are square floor strips. Said upper lip 8 and said lower lip 7 are free from surfaces preventing the moving apart of said first strip 2A and said second strip 2B in a horizontal direction H in the plane of the floor covering 1 and perpendicular to the related edges 5-6.

[0068] The bottom 24 of said upper lip 8 extends horizontal and is free from back cuts and / or free from surfaces hindering the moving apart of said lower lip 7 and said upper lip 8 in a horizontal direction H in the plane of the floor covering 1 and perpendicular to the related edges 5-6.

[0069] The bottom 24 of said upper lip 8 and an upper portion 25 of said lower lip 7 that is overlapped by said upper lip 8 are coplanar and horizontal. Said upper portion 25 of said lower lip 7 is distanced from the abutting surfaces 14-15 (see further) by a downwardly inclined portion 26. Said inclined portion 26 enhances the ease of installation and allows milling tolerances.

[0070] In the figures 4, 5, 6 and 7 the generally vertically extending surfaces 10-11 are shown in a variant with and without the bevelled surface 18 that extends at a shallow angle A, about 11° with the horizontal, in the wear layer 17, in this case entirely above the print layer 16.

[0071] As can be seen in figures 3, 8, 9, 10, 15 and 16, the first upstanding surface 10, the second upstanding surface 11 and the bottom portion 12 are provided with a decoration 13 separate from said decorative top layer 4, wherein said decoration 13 is for example a lacquer or a dye. The result is that the recess 9 has the desired appearance, e.g. the desired color. Further said lacquer or dye can protect the recess 9 from stains and / or further enhance the water resistance of the floor covering 1, if the lacquer for example comprises water repellent substances.

[0072] The first upstanding surface 10 and the second upstanding surface 11 are formed in the material of said substrate 3 and said decorative top layer 4, thus the first and second upstanding surfaces 11, 12 extend through the decorative top layer 4 into the substrate 3. The bottom portion 12 is completely formed in substrate 3. As can be seen in the figures, said lower lip 7 of said second strip 2B contacts the profiled edge 6 at said second one of said two opposite edges of said first strip 2A at abutting surfaces 14, 15. Said abutting surface 14 of the first strip 2Ais part of a third upstanding surface located below the upper lip 8, with the upper lip 8 extending beyond said abutting surface 14. Said abutting surfaces 14-15 prevent movement of said first strip 2A and second strip 2B towards each other at the respective edges 5-6. Said abutting surfaces 14-15 are oriented vertically. Also further preferably the dimensions of said abutting surfaces 14-15 in the vertical direction V take up at least 10 percent of the total thickness T of the floor strips 2, more preferably at least 20 percent, most preferably at least 30 percent. This provides a stable abutting of floor strips 2.

[0073] As can be seen in figures 2, 3, 8, 14 and 15, spaces S1-S2 is available between the profiled edges 5-6 of said first strip 2A and second strip 2B beneath, and also above, said abutting surfaces 14-15. Below said abutting surfaces 14-15 a space SI is present. This space SI is formed by bottom recesses 30a, 30b at the bottom of respectively the lower lip 7 and at the bottom of the first profiled edge 5 below the abutting surface 14. The cross section of this space SI has the shape of an isosceles triangle. The space S2 formed above the abutting surfaces 14-15 is formed by the downwardly inclined portion 26 of the lower lip 7 and by the bottom 24 of the upper lip 8. As can be seen in the figures, the size and / or shape of the space S2 can differ. For example, the downwardly inclined portion 26 of the lower lip 7 can have a different length and / or inclination. For example the inclination with the horizontal can be between 5° and 30°, for example can be 10°, 20°, 25°. The length can be between 2 and 20 percent of the total length LL of the lower lip 7, for example 5 percent, 10 percent. Also the size and shape of the space SI can differ. The bottom recesses 30a, 30b at the bottom of respectively the lower lip 7 and at the bottom of the second profiled edge 6 below the abutting surface 14, can have different lengths and / or inclinations with the horizontal.

[0074] For example said inclination can be between 10° and 50°, for example can be 20°, 30°, 40°. The length can be between 2 and 30 percent of the total length LL of the lower lip 7, for example 5 percent, 10 percent. In figure 16 a variant is shown where spaces S1-S2 are not present. Of course, variants where space SI is present and space S2 is not present and variants where space SI is not present and space S2 is present, are also possible.

[0075] Said decorative top layer 4 forms a general upper surface 19 of said first strip 2 A, respectively second strip 2B, and said first upstanding surface 10 and second upstanding surface 11 can comprise a bevelled surface 18 extending only in said wear layer 17, and connecting to the general upper surface 19 of said first strip 2 A, respectively second strip 2B. Said bevelled surface 18 in itself extends at a shallow angle A with the horizontal plane, for example at an angle of 25° or less, preferably 15° or less, for example about 11°. Further, directly connecting to said bevelled surface 18 and beneath said bevelled surface 18, said first upstanding surface 10 and second upstanding surface 11 comprise a portion forming the rest of said first and second upstanding surfaces 10-11. As can be seen in figures 2, 3, 6 and 8 said portion extend according to the vertical. Other possibilities are shown in figures 9 and 10. In figure 9 the portion of the first upstanding surface 10 extends according to the vertical, the portion of the second upstanding surface 11 is inclined. In figures 10, the first and second upstanding surfaces 10, 11 are curved. The bevelled surface 180 can also be a pressed bevel 180, as shown in figure 13.

[0076] As shown in figure 6, the largest horizontal distance (HD) between the first upstanding surface 10 and the second upstanding surface 11 is 80% of the thickness T of said floor strips 2.

[0077] In all the embodiments shown, said bottom portion 12 extends completely at a depth situated above the center of the thickness T of the respective floor strips 2 and in the substrate 3.

[0078] Preferably said floor strips 2are strips 2of so-called gluedown LVT. As shown in the figures, said floor strips 2are preferably adhered to a subfloor 21 with a glue 20, with said glue 20 preferably at least partially filling up the space SI formed below connected floor strips 2. Preferably said glue 20 covers the entire subfloor 21. As can be seen in figure 16, said glue 20 A can also be part of a double sided tape which on the one hand adheres to a subfloor 21 and on the other hand adheres to the floor strips 2.

[0079] It is further remarked that any other surface of the respective profiled edges 5-6 of the floor strips 2, in particular those shown in the figures, may be provided with a said decoration 13. For example in the case of figure 3 also the downwardly inclined portion 26 may comprise a decoration 13.

[0080] It is noted that in the embodiment of figure 3 the decoration 13 is also at least partially overlapped by means of the upper lip 8. By so doing gap formation may be disguised to some extent. A potential partial or entire decoration 13 of the downwardly inclined portion 26 may further disguise such formation in case the gap formation is more considerable.

[0081] The decoration 13 preferably at least covers the side edge of the print layer 16.

[0082] Figure 8 shows that the bottom portion 12 of the recess 9 may comprise rounded or bent sections. In the illustrated case a generally flat portion of the bottom portion 12 connects via a rounded portion 28 with the upstanding surface 10 at said second strip 2B.

[0083] Figure 9 shows two special features which do not necessarily need to be combined, but can each separate be applied in any of the embodiments shown or claimed. According to a first feature the bottom portion 12 has a local deepest point or zone 29, i.e. a deepest point or zone that is remote from the most distal point of the upper lip 8. This may be beneficial in order to drain water from the floor covering 1, without causing the water to flow under said upper lip 8 towards the subfloor 21. According to a second feature the first generally vertically extending surface 10 is inclined at an angle Al of about 10° with the vertical. A lacquer and / or dye can be more easily applied to a said inclined first generally vertically extending surface 10.

[0084] Figure 10 shows a further variant with still a further feature that does not necessarily be available in the presented combination. Herein the recess 9 has an overall bent or rounded boundary, i.e. with a rounded bottom portion 12, and a rounded first and second generally vertically extending surface 10-11. In the illustrated embodiment, also the first special feature of figure 9 has been illustrated, namely a local deepest zone 29 remote from the most distal point of the upper lip 8.

[0085] In figures 15 and 16, said abutting surfaces 14, 15 comprise a bulge-shaped portion 31, and a corresponding indentation-shaped portion 32, wherein said bulge-shaped portion 31 and said indentation-shaped portion 32 are each located between two vertically or essentially vertically shaped portions. Said vertically or essentially vertically shaped portions take up at least 70 percentage of the total dimension of said abutting surfaces 14, 15 in the vertical direction, such that said abutting surfaces 14, 15 are then oriented essentially vertically. A said bulge-shaped portion 31 and indentation-shaped portion 32 prevent vertical separation of two floor strips 2A-2B and also ensure good levelling of the floor strips 2A-2B relative to each other. As can be seen in figure 15 the abutting surface 15 of the lower lip 7 comprises the bulge-shaped portion 31 and the other abutting surface 14 comprises the indentation-shaped portion 32, which is slightly larger than the bulge-shaped portion 31. Milling tolerances are then more easily captured and / or installation is easier. As can be seen in figure 16, the abutting surface 15 of the lower lip 7 comprises the indentation-shaped portion 32 and the other abutting surface 14 comprises the form fitting bulge-shaped portion 31.

[0086] As can be seen in figures 11, 12 and 13, a said floor strip 2, 200A, 200D, can comprise on its general upper surface 19 one or more additional grooves 90, for example one groove or two grooves, wherein said grooves 90 are for example provided parallel or diagonally with said opposite edges 5, 6. Preferably a cross section of said groove 90 has a similar cross-section as a said recess 9. Figure 13 shows a possible cross section of such a groove 90. Said grooves 90 preferably end in a said recess 9. A said groove 90 can be made by milling. Preferably the dimension of a said groove 90 according to a vertical direction, is also similar to the dimensions of said recesses 9. Complex laying patterns can be easily simulated with the aid of such grooves 90. Preferably said grooves 90 have been treated with one or more substances chosen from the list of a lacquer and / or a liquid and / or a dye and / or a primer. More preferably said grooves 90 have been treated with the same one or more substances as the corresponding bottom portion 12.

[0087] Said groove 90, as shown in figure 13, comprise a first upstanding surface, a bottom surface and second upstanding surface, wherein said first upstanding surface and said second upstanding surface extends at an angle A2 from 0° to 10° with the vertical, preferably from 5° to 10°, and wherein said bottom surface extends horizontally. With such angles A2, the first upstanding surface and the second upstanding can be more easily treated with above-mentioned one or more substances. The maximum distance 90L between said first upstanding surface and the second upstanding surface preferably equals the largest horizontal distance HD between the first upstanding surface 10 and the second upstanding surface 11 of a said recess 9.

[0088] If the floor strips 2 are identical shaped rectangular floor strips 2, with a pair of opposite long edges 5-6 and a pair of opposite short edges 22-23, then said floor strips 2 are ideal for random patterns, half-half patterns or grid patterns. Of course other patterns can be desirable. For example, as shown in figure 11, one can provide square-shaped floor strips 2 and elongate rectangular shaped floor strips 2. For said elongate rectangular floor strips, at least a first type of floor strips (A floor strips) 200B and a second type of floor strips (B floor strips) 200A, 200C are present, wherein the profiled edges of opposite edges 5- 6 of the second type of floor strips 200A, 200C are mirror-inverted with regard to profiled edges 5-6 of the first type of panels 200B. Such A floor strips 200B and B floor strips 200A, 200C, can also be used for a floor covering 1 with a herringbone pattern.

[0089] Variants of the present invention may be imagined by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims:1.- Floor covering comprising a plurality of floor strips (2), said floor strips (2) comprising a substrate (3) and a provided thereon decorative top layer (4), wherein said floor strips (2) on at least two opposite edges (5-6) comprise profiled edges, wherein the profiled edge at a first one (5) of said two opposite edges comprises a lower lip (7) and the profiled edge at a second one (6) of said two opposite edges comprises an upper lip(8), characterized in that in said floor covering (1) said upper lip (8) of a first strip (2 A) vertically overlaps said lower lip (7) of at least a second strip (2B) and wherein a recess(9) in said floor covering (1) is formed by a first upstanding surface (10), said first upstanding surface (10) preferably being a generally vertically extending surface (10), and a second upstanding surface (11), said second upstanding surface preferably being a generally vertically extending surface (11), and a bottom portion (12) connecting said first and second upstanding surfaces (10-11), wherein said first upstanding surface (10) is formed by a distal portion of said upper lip (8) of said first strip (2A), said second upstanding surface (11) is formed by a portion of the profiled edge at said first one (5) of said two opposite edges (5-6) of said second strip (2B).2.- Floor covering according to claim 1, characterized in that said bottom portion (12) is formed by an upper surface (25) of said lower lip (7) of said second strip (2B).3.- Floor covering according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first upstanding surface (10) and / or the second upstanding surface (11) and / or the bottom portion (12) are provided with a decoration (13) separate from said decorative top layer (4), wherein said decoration (13) is preferably a uniformly colored decoration and / or a liquidly applied decoration and / or a lacquer and / or a dye.4.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first upstanding surface (10) and / or the second upstanding surface (11) and / or the bottom portion (12) are formed in the material of said substrate (3) and said decorative top layer (4).5.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said lower lip (7) of said second strip (2B) contacts the profiled edge at said second one (6) of said two opposite edges of said first strip (2 A) at abutting surfaces (14-15).6.- Floor covering according to claim 5, characterized in that said abutting surfaces (14- 15) are positioned vertically beneath said upper lip (8) of said first strip (2A).7.- Floor covering according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that said abutting surfaces (14-15) prevent movement of said first strip (2 A) and second strip (2B) towards each other at the respective edges (5-6).8.- Floor covering according to any of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that said abutting surfaces (14-15) are oriented vertically or essentially vertically.9.- Floor covering according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein said abutting surfaces (14- 15) respectively comprise a bulge-shaped portion (31) and a corresponding indentationshaped (32) portion, wherein preferably said bulge-shaped portion (31) and said indentation-shaped portion (32) are each located between two vertically or essentially vertically shaped portions.10.- Floor covering according to any of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that a space (Sl- S2) is available between the profiled edges of said first strip (2A) and second strip (2B) beneath, and potentially also above, said abutting surfaces (14-15).11.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length (LV) by which said upper lip (8) of said first strip (2A) vertically overlaps said lower lip (7) of said second strip (2B) is less than 50%, or even less than 30% of the length (LL) by which said lower lip (7) extends beyond the upper edge of said second strip (2B).12.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first upstanding surface (10) and second upstanding surface (11) extend through said decorative top layer (4) into said substrate (3).13.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said decorative top layer (4) comprises at least a print layer (16) and a wear layer (17) applied on top of said print layer (16).14.- Floor covering according to claim 13, characterized in that said decorative top layer (4) forms a general upper surface (19) of said first strip (2 A), respectively second strip (2B), and in that said first upstanding surface (10) and second upstanding surface (11) comprise a bevelled surface (18) extending at least partially in said wear layer (17), and preferably connecting to the general upper surface (19) of said first strip (2 A), respectively second strip (2B).15.- Floor covering according to claim 14, characterized in that said bevelled surface (18) in itself extends at a shallow angle (A) with the horizontal plane, for example at an angle of 25° or less, preferably 15° or less, for example about 11°.16.- Floor covering according to any of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that said first upstanding surface (10) and second upstanding surface (11) comprise a portion (20) extending at an angle (Al) from 0° to 10° with the vertical, wherein said portion (20) preferably forms the majority of said first and second upstanding surfaces (10-11).17.- Floor covering according to claim 16, characterized in that said portion (20) extends at least in said substrate (3), and potentially in said print layer (16) and / or wear layer (17).18.- Floor covering according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the largest horizontal distance (HD) between said portion (20) on said first upstanding surface (10) and said portion (20) on said second upstanding surface (11) is at least 25% of thethickness (T) of said strips (2A-2B), or at least 50% of the thickness (T) of said strips (2A-2B).19.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said bottom portion (12) extends completely at a depth situated above the center of the thickness (T) of the respective strip (2A-2B).20.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said floor strips (2) are floor strips (2) of so-called gluedown LVT, dryback LVT or looselay LVT (luxury vinyl tile).21.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said substrate (3) comprises at least polyvinylchloride and fillers, for example at least 50 wt% of fillers.22.- Floor covering according to claim 21, characterized in that said substrate (3) comprises plasticizers, preferably at least 15 phr of plasticizers, and / or in that said substrate (3) comprises soft or semi-rigid PVC.23.- Floor covering according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that said substrate (3) has a thickness (T3) of 2.5 mm or less.24.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said decorative top layer (4) is essentially made from polyvinylchloride (PVC), for example with a decorative top layer (4) comprising a print layer (16) formed by a printed PVC foil and a provided thereon wear layer (17) of PVC, preferably soft PVC, and preferably further a lacquer layer provided on said wear layer (17), for example an acrylic or urethane lacquer layer and / or a UV and / or excimer cured lacquer layer.25.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said floor strips (2) are glued or otherwise adhered to the subfloor (21) or to an underlayment.26.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the height of the overlap between the upper lip (8) and the lower lip (7), the upper lip (8) is glued or otherwise attached to the lower lip (7).27.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said floor strips (2) have an overall thickness (T) of less than 3.5 mm, for example about 2.5 mm.28.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said floor strips (2) are rectangular, with a pair of opposite long edges (5-6) and a pair of opposite short edges (22-23), and that said two opposite edges (5-6) are the pair of opposite long edges (5-6).29.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said upper lip (8) and said lower lip (7) are free or essentially free from surfaces preventing the moving apart of said first strip (2A) and said second strip (2B) in a horizontal direction (H) in the plane of the floor covering (1) and perpendicular to the related edges (5-6).30.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom (24) of said upper lip (8) extends essentially horizontal and / or is free from back cuts and / or free from surfaces hindering the moving apart of said lower lip (7) and said upper lip (8) in a horizontal direction (H) in the plane of the floor covering (1) and perpendicular to the related edges (5-6).31.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom (24) of said upper lip (8) and an upper portion (25) of said lower lip (7) that is overlapped by said upper lip (8) are substantially coplanar, or coplanar, preferably horizontal or inclined at an angle of less than 45° with the horizontal.32.- Floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a said floor strip (2) comprises on its general upper surface (19) one or more grooves (90), forexample provided parallel or diagonally with said opposite edges (5, 6), wherein a cross section of a said groove (90) preferably has a similar cross-section as a said recess (9).33.- Floor strip suitable for use in a floor covering according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said floor strips (2) comprise a substrate (3) and a provided thereon decorative top layer (4), wherein said floor strips (2) on at least two opposite edges (5-6) comprise profiled edges, wherein the profiled edge at a first one (5) of said two opposite edges comprises a lower lip (7) and the profiled edge at a second one (6) of said two opposite edges comprises an upper lip (8).

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