Types of linoleum

Despite a wide range of flooring, linoleum remains one of the most popular options. This is explained quite simply. It is very durable, easy to install, has the optimal combination of quality and cost, is unpretentious in cleaning, environmentally friendly, and also has a large selection of different colors, patterns and textures. Sometimes a large selection of flooring puzzles customers, because it is made from different materials, used in various fields, and differs in its structure.

In the manufacture of the coating, several types of materials are used: natural components, rubber, polyvinyl chloride, nitrocellulose, glyphthalic resins.

Natural

Due to the fact that the production uses completely natural ingredients, it is one of the best. It consists of wood resin, linseed oil and cork flour. This type of linoleum is absolutely hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly. It is highly resistant to mechanical damage and fire resistance and serves a fairly long time, as it does not lose color brightness and shape. It will be ideal for the kitchen, as it has a grease-repellent and resistant to many substances surface. The flaxseed oil included in the composition gives it good bactericidal properties.

ATTENTION! Linoleum made from natural materials has a significant drawback. This option does not have plasticity, which causes inconvenience during its transportation and installation.

Rubber

For the manufacture of this type use crushed rubber, and sometimes bitumen. The top layer is made of rubber, to which the coloring pigment is added. This option is characterized by high ductility and moisture resistance.

Polyvinyl chloride

PVC products are the most popular among linoleums. Its popularity is explained by its inexpensive cost, large selection of patterns and colors, good flexibility and easy installation. This option is available on different bases. With all its advantages, it has some disadvantages: a pungent odor that disappears for a long time and poor frost resistance. At low temperatures, this option may crack.

Gliftal

It is a competitor to PVC products. However, inferior to them in strength and elasticity. Also, over time, it stretches in length and shrinks in width. Well suited for noisy rooms, as it has excellent soundproofing properties.

Nitrocellulose

The material gives the product excellent flexibility and resistance to moisture. It has a bright shine. However, it is very flammable.

Before purchasing a floor covering, in addition to choosing its color and pattern, it is necessary to take into account its physical parameters. Materials have several classes of use. Classification is based on the wear resistance of the product and the scope in which it will be applied. There are three varieties of linoleum:

1. For domestic use.
2. For commercial purposes.
3. Semi-commercial.

Domestic

The thickness of this option is about 4 mm, has a multilayer structure and a foam base. Main characteristics:

1. Good sound insulation.
2. High environmental friendliness.
3. A variety of decorative patterns and colors.
4. Low price.

REFERENCE! The wear resistance of this option is low, so it is suitable only for use in residential premises.

Commercial

Manufacturers give a long guarantee of use on such products, since this option is highly resistant to damage. Products of this type are homogeneous and heterogeneous. The first option is single-layer, but quite durable. Wear resistance is achieved due to the dense structure. The heterogeneous coating is multilayer. Additional layers provide strength and stability. Commercial linoleum can be used for domestic needs, but it has a high cost.

Semi-commercial

It can be called a middle ground between household and commercial options. The main characteristics are:

• good resistance to mechanical damage, cracking and cracking;
• convenience and ease of installation;
• universality in application - it is suitable for use in both home conditions and in commercial premises with medium traffic.

This type differs not only in the scope and materials of manufacture, but also in its structure. In its internal structure, it is homogeneous and heterogeneous.

Homogeneous products

Single layer coating. In its manufacture, polyvinyl chloride and coloring pigments are used. Due to its homogeneous structure, it is the most durable among all varieties of linoleum. Ideal for commercial use.

Heterogeneous products

It has several layers:

• decorative, on which a protective agent is applied;
• a fiberglass layer that gives additional durability;
• the main layer is PVC or fabric.

Suitable for use at home and commercial premises with medium traffic.

Linoleum is deservedly the most popular flooring. This is due to its advantages:

1. Very easy installation. One of the main advantages. Laying the product does not require special knowledge and is easily carried out independently.
2. No special care required. On the surface of linoleum traces of contamination are almost invisible.
3. Moisture resistant.
4. It has excellent flexibility and low glide. This allows you to use it in medical institutions, sports facilities and other public places.
5. It has good noise and thermal insulation.
6. A large selection of patterns and colors, which allows you to easily choose the right option.

Linoleum made using modern technology is one of the best options for flooring. A variety of drawings allows you to easily choose the right option for any room design.