In this article you will find the most necessary advice about how to choose linoleum for an apartment or house. The importance of choosing the right floor covering cannot be overestimated, because usually the floor is laid for a long time, at least 7-10 years.
Therefore, at the renovation planning stage, it is worth approaching this issue with full responsibility.
What is the most common and popular material used for flooring? – This is linoleum, used both for residential premises and for public and industrial buildings.
It is so diverse in its characteristics that any buyer will find his own option on the market. You can look at the photo to decide on the color.
When choosing linoleum for an apartment, many buyers focus only on external qualities:
- Price.
- Design (color, pattern).
- Web width.
But there are more significant parameters that are not visible and are only reflected in the characteristics of the material. More attention should be paid to them. And most importantly, linoleum should be chosen not for an apartment, but for each room separately. After all, despite the fact that all the rooms, the corridor and the kitchen are in the same apartment, they have different purposes. It's like a family. An individual family may use the services of one hairdresser, but everyone's hairstyles are different. Rarely when alone good linoleum fits optimally in all rooms.
You will also be interested in an article about, which describes all the stages of work and some of the secrets.
How to choose linoleum
All manufacturers have linoleums in their product line for various purposes. Conventionally, it can be divided into:
- Domestic.
- Commercial.
Everything else, such as office, industrial, semi-commercial, is just a gradation. When choosing linoleum for an apartment, focus on household linoleum. Because the degree of its wear resistance (abrasion resistance) is determined by the corresponding parameter.
There is no single correct designation for these categories for all manufacturers. Some manufacturers designate these parameters with a pictogram, others with numbers, and others with letters. Therefore, for clarification of this classification, you should read the instructions from the manufacturer. Main: The apartment needs household linoleum. There are only rare cases when a very busy family may need a higher class of linoleum.
Linoleum material can be natural or artificial. Natural linoleum is more expensive, but it is also more optimal for the home, especially for the bedroom. It does not have the disadvantages that are inherent in other types of linoleum, except for two, such as:
- Rotting (affected by mold).
- Brittle in the cold.
Therefore, such material should not be chosen for rooms without heating or with high humidity (in particular for the corridor and balcony). There are many reviews on the Internet that confirm this.
Types and classes of linoleum
Considering the set of components, linoleum is divided into natural and synthetic. The first is made from natural ingredients: resin, limestone, linseed oil. Jute or felt fabric is used as a base. It is easy to clean, does not fade, has a slight bactericidal effect due to linseed oil, is fire-resistant, and is moderately resistant to chemicals. This is the most environmentally friendly and safe type.
Synthetic linoleum is made from polyvinyl chloride with the addition of various fillers, dyes and plasticizers. It consists of one or more layers, has different kinds basics, different technologies of drawing. Tarkett synthetic linoleum is cheaper than natural, is just as easy to clean, absorbs noise, and has low thermal conductivity.
If you want complete comfort, then it is better to choose antistatic linoleum with copper strips, because... it will protect you from unpleasant sensations if a static charge accumulates on your slippers or woolen socks.
According to their intended purpose, synthetic linoleum is divided into household, commercial, semi-commercial and special. Household ones are usually single-layer, have a felt or foam base, are varied in design, layer thickness is from 1 to 4 mm. It is flexible, easy to install, clean and absorbs sound. This is the most budget option that you can choose, but with a short service life - 2-3 years with active use.
The commercial type of coating is stronger and more durable, with a thickness of 1.5-3 mm with an applied protective layer, it can be homogeneous with painting over the entire thickness or heterogeneous, with alternating layers. Semi-commercial linoleum has a backing, one main layer and a protective coating. Its structure is similar to the household one, the difference is in the thickness of the top layer – 0.7 mm. Special linoleum is used for indoors special purpose. It is divided into sports, bactericidal, anti-slip.
The class of linoleum is indicated by a number of 2 digits, where the first is the type of room, and the second indicates the degree of abrasion.
Width– extremely important parameter. How to choose linoleum for an apartment according to this parameter? The size of your premises is important here. Linoleum can demonstrate all its advantages only when laid as a single sheet, without seams or joints. In some rooms, when choosing linoleum, you should be creative. For example, in a kitchen with a width of 2.5 m and a length of 4 m, you can purchase a canvas 4 m wide and 2.5 m long. That is. where the length and width of a piece of fabric is, you determine yourself.
The underlay simultaneously insulates and levels the subfloor The thickness of linoleum also needs to be selected carefully.. In theory, the thicker the better. But there are also exceptions. For example, if the room has heated floors, then thin linoleum without a base is the most the best option. Before deciding which linoleum to choose, you need to know how insulated the floor is. By the way, if you like thin linoleum, but still need to insulate the floors, you can use a special underlay. Thick linoleum, on a heat-insulating basis, is immediately ready for installation.
What color and pattern?
When choosing a design, advice is most difficult to give. Everyone chooses color, design, pattern according to their preferences. But there are some points to note. We have done small photo review to understand which colors and types are most suitable for this or that material. For example:
- The texture of linoleum without a clear pattern, like marble or stone, hides almost any damage to the coating that will appear during operation.
- With a drawing, you can visually increase the size of the room. Frequent, transverse lines on linoleum will optically reduce the length of the room. A room with sparse, longitudinal pattern lines on the floor will have a more elongated look., this is a great option for home.
- Dark linoleum in the room sunny side, according to reviews, will dim the illumination, but increase the heating of the room. In addition, it will fade faster in bright light. sunlight. This perfect option for the bedroom.
Will we choose based on price?
Indeed, despite the deep-rooted opinion that linoleum is a budget option, prices for some samples can reach and even exceed the most expensive laminate flooring.
Why is this happening? Yes, simply because linoleum is a very practical, environmentally friendly and versatile floor covering, and global brands simply cannot stand aside, creating “elite” versions of these products. Therefore, when you come to some specialized stores, you may stumble upon quite high prices.
On average, Tarkett linoleum average quality will cost about 400-600 rubles per 1 m2. You can see in the photo what options are offered for this money. If you don't have a large budget for floor renovations, you can count on these prices. If your budget is very small, don’t worry, you can find quite good options for less.
Antistatic natural options As a rule, they are even more expensive, have copper strips for grounding and are more expensive to install.
Extra options
When choosing linoleum for some rooms, for example, a nursery, a living room or a kitchen, you should pay attention to such a parameter as antibacterial properties. Almost all major manufacturers have a series of household linoleums with this property.
Sound and thermal insulation - important qualities, but their disadvantage can be compensated by using them with the required parameters. Soundproofing is best done at least in the living room, bedroom and hallway.
Have you decided how to choose the right linoleum? Now for some more useful tips.
When making a purchase, please complete the following quality checks:
- Check Tarkett linoleum in rolled form. It should not have any bulges or bumps or delamination of the material. Their presence indicates a defect from the manufacturer.
- Household linoleum should not have a persistent specific odor. This smell is inherent in commercial coatings. After some time it will disappear, but a trace presence will remain.
- Be sure to request a hygiene certificate from the seller. All linoleum for residential premises undergoes examination.
- If the floors in your apartment or house are cold, then choose insulated linoleum with a thick layer of insulation.
Which linoleum to choose for home
For a long service life of the coating, it is necessary to take into account the purpose of the room, its temperature and humidity conditions. The rooms with the highest traffic are the hallway, kitchen, and corridor. In addition, they are more likely to be exposed to wet cleaning. Household or semi-commercial linoleum 3-4 mm thick and top layer from 0.25 mm.
See also great in the interior of apartments and houses.
The living room and bedroom have little traffic, and are often covered with carpets. For these rooms, according to reviews, the most optimal is household linoleum with a fabric or polyester backing 1.2-1.5 mm thick with a coating of 0.1-0.2 mm. In the bathroom and toilet, where high humidity, it is enough to put a synthetic single-layer material with a thickness of 1.5-1.6 mm, with a top layer of 0.25 mm.
There is no need to skimp on covering your children's room and choose natural antiseptic linoleum, which is soft and does not emit any harmful substances. Its thickness should be from 3 mm. If it is impossible to choose a natural one, a household type of linoleum on a fabric or foam base of the same thickness will do.
The color of linoleum must be correctly combined with the color of the walls and furniture, and the style of the apartment or house. It is better not to select rooms with the highest traffic light color, but dark will not give comfort. All calm shades (beige, blue, brown, gray-green) are suitable for the kitchen, a gathering place for the whole family.
If the corridor or hallway is decorated with wood, then linoleum with the color and pattern of wood, as in the photo above, will look good. It is better to cover the floor in the bathroom with green material, blue tint or colors sea wave. For a bedroom, a light-colored coating with a small pattern is appropriate. It is better not to lay dark linoleum in any room, since such a floor visually reduces the volume of the room and makes the ceiling lower.
The coloring of linoleum and the nature of the pattern applied to it should be an important link in the overall design of the room, giving it completeness without losing the practical purpose of the coating.
Using our advice, you can choose not only beautiful, but also practical, relatively inexpensive covering for your home.
In this article we will try to dissuade you and tell you which linoleum is best to choose for your apartment. Characteristics and description will be given here different types, as well as recommendations for choosing the optimal parameters for certain rooms.
Rumors about linoleum and their debunking
Let's start by listing everything contrived shortcomings coverage and explain why these fears are unfounded. We deliberately begin the article with this information., because, without understanding some of the main points, it will be difficult for you to choose, and you will always remember all sorts of “buts” that will speak against the purchase.
But it’s worth buying linoleum, since it is a completely budget-friendly and very practical floor covering. Let's go...
Myth #1: Incredibly unhealthy
Some people are very afraid that linoleum emits toxic fumes, and they believe that it is this coating that emits them, almost for life and in huge quantities.
What can I say? Yes, I have harmful linoleum, but there is also harmful laminate, harmful carpet and even harmful boards covered with low-quality and cheap varnish. Yes, we will tell you more. Eat harmful wallpaper, paints and suspended ceilings...
The point here is not at all that it is linoleum, but in production technology and initial components.
Everyone knows that it’s better not to deal with the Chinese: the guys are slapdash and reduce the cost of production as much as possible. As a result, their products contain such an amount of phenol that it simply fills the room with an unpleasant, chemical smell. And it is practically impossible to weather it.
And it’s difficult to determine in a store which coating has a smell and which doesn’t, because there is phenol in the air and it seems that all the coatings are the wrong one...
Therefore, there is only one way out: look not only at the colors and parameters, but also at the manufacturer. You should not take on faith what is written on the price tag in the store, since supermarkets often provide information that is not entirely correct.
It’s better to write this name down on a piece of paper, and at home, on the Internet, already read reviews about it people who used it. If it has a smell, then you will certainly read about it somewhere; now many people write online and share their advice.
By the way, in the modern market there are even safe linoleum, ecologically pure. It is made from natural ingredients, but its price, of course, completely negates these advantages.
It is often easier to put a real board on the floor than to buy linoleum without chemicals. Moreover, the selection of flowers there is quite limited. But since it’s on sale, it means someone is taking it. The rich have their own quirks, as they say.
Myth #2: Only suitable for narrow rooms
Anyone who has not gone to a construction market for a long time is simply confident that the linoleum panels have not changed and there is a choice of widths from 1.5 to 3 meters. This means that in a larger room it will be necessary to make ugly joints from plastic or iron strips, and no beauty or integrity will come of it.
But we hasten to please you: things haven't been like this for a long time.
Firstly, there are now both four and five meter panels on the market, but there are certainly far fewer of them than standard ones. If you don’t find the right color from the wide canvases, then don’t worry either: no strips are needed.
Secondly, now there is a special welding for linoleum, and the seam is almost invisible. This name is, of course, very approximate. In fact, welding is nothing more than the usual butt gluing of seams, but the composition of the fastening composition is such that it literally dissolves the linoleum and splices the pieces together. As a result, the surface comes out intact and cannot burst at the joint.
Myth #3: Very impractical and short-lived
And here we, too, as in the first block, will say: depending on what kind of linoleum.
Yes, to this day there are coatings on the surface of which the slightest pressure leaves dented marks, not to mention marks from heels and other aggressive things. But not all linoleum is like this!
There are incredibly durable floors that will serve you faithfully for decades, without losing their original form. But we talk about this point in more detail below, in a separate block, since the topic of making the right choice is extensive.
What is important here is the class, the top coating and many other things that are worth paying attention to.
We can only say that in 90% of cases, the base of linoleum is fiberglass, and this guarantees that the canvas will not “sit down” over time and will not deform, and there is also no reason to fear that it will tear from some little thing.
Myth No. 4: it’s not prestigious and it’s embarrassing
Here, yes, if you take the cheapest linoleum, which is painted in unnatural colors and looks like oilcloth - it is, it looks disgusting, to put it mildly. But if you choose something more expensive, with good texture and color, without any oilcloth reflections, then the floor will look pretty decent.
Often, good linoleum is much more impressive than inexpensive laminate. And more practical, which is the most important thing. You need to take care of the laminate: under no circumstances allow drops of water to get on it, otherwise it will swell... And linoleum is an absolutely unpretentious thing.
Myth No. 5: the floor must be perfectly leveled under linoleum
Many people believe that linoleum requires too careful leveling of the screed, but this is expensive and, in this case, it seems that the game is not worth the candle. You'll save on the coating, but you'll lose on the screed. Isn't it easier then to take carpet or laminate?
It’s not easier, because leveling the floor is necessary for any covering, especially laminate! If linoleum can withstand small unevenness, then laminate will definitely not, and over time, in places of small holes, the locks of the boards will diverge... Under carpet, however, you can’t really compare it if we are talking about a high-pile carpet. But caring for it is also more difficult.
Try laying a soft covering in a house where children are present. Yes, in a year they will turn the once nice floor into something sloppy... And it’s simply impossible to clean it on your own.
Here, in general, is the entire list of common prejudices that simply do not allow buyers to visit stands with linoleum. As you can see, there is definitely no basis for categorical judgments here and it’s all about the quality of the material itself.
What classes does it come in?
Now let's move on to specifics. In this block you will learn what linoleum is and how to choose it.
Linoleum comes in several classes, here they are:
| 1st class | The most short-lived, but also the most inexpensive. Designed for rooms with very little traffic and, on such surfaces, it is advisable not to wear heels. It would be ideal if a rug is placed in the areas of greatest trampling (for example, by the bed, if such linoleum is in the bedroom). |
| 2nd class | This type is already stronger, and, according to by and large, Suitable for all living spaces. But its service life is short, about seven years, and it also needs to be handled with care. |
| 3rd grade | Commercial linoleum, very strong, durable, not afraid of heels and moving furniture. One problem is that the colors in this class are rather weak. As a rule, commercial linoleum has a neutral color, monochromatic and not very bright. Let's say gray and blue coatings are popular. |
| 4th grade | Industrial. Very durable linoleum, it is not afraid of practically anything. But, as in the previous case, this class cannot boast of original colors |
In addition to these classes, linoleum has varieties based on materials of manufacture, which you also need to know in order to make the right choice. But we will talk about them in a separate block, and now we will look at which class is suitable for specific rooms.
So what do we have? Or very durable coatings, but not distinguished by original colors, or beautiful, stylish, but their service life is not so long.
In our opinion, there is no point in chasing excessive strength, since third-class linoleum, subject to certain conditions, can please you not for ten years, but much more.
Most universal option– this is 3rd class linoleum.
In general, it’s very good when the flooring covers the entire apartment one color. Therefore, sometimes there is no point in talking about the classes of linoleum for rooms. In fact, you wouldn’t cover the kitchen with one color, and the corridor with another, because it is less passable and, therefore, you can get linoleum cheaper?
Now let's talk about the materials from which linoleum is made.
What material?
PVC
The most common linoleum, it is made of PVC, that is, polyvinyl chloride. There is no need to be afraid of this terrible word, there is nothing harmful in it, provided that the product was produced by a decent company and does not have a sharp, unpleasant odor.
This is a good choice since PVC is a practical material. Naturally, it is not eternal, and it must be protected. He is afraid of fire, he cannot put hot pans on it (absurd, but the same children can even think of such a thing), he does not “like” shoes with heels...
Otherwise, this is a problem-free and easy-to-care coating.
Natural linoleum
Absolutely environmentally friendly, suitable for children's rooms and allergy sufferers. Made from jute fabric, wood flour, natural resins. There are a lot of colors and they, as a rule, look very natural and expensive.
But it is very expensive, that’s one thing, but the second is that it is afraid of moisture. Therefore, if we are talking about a children's room, then this is not the most the best choice, since children can spill water often and thickly. Due to this, the coating will look sloppy and be covered with indelible stains.
Glypthal linoleum
This is linoleum made from alkyd resin, which is applied to a fabric base.
Its advantages are that it is quite strong and wear-resistant, but at the same time fragile, and before spreading it, the roll should lie in a warm room (especially if you bought it in winter time, and he froze during delivery). If you spread it right away, there is a high probability of cracks appearing.
Colloxylin
This is linoleum without a base at all, there is no fabric or rubber underneath. Made from cellulose and, in general, it is also quite environmentally friendly material. But, unlike purely natural linoleum, this coating is not afraid of water.
It is unpretentious in care and is in no way inferior to PVC in properties. The only bad thing is that such coatings are rare in supermarkets, and ordering such an item online is a big risk.
We read a review on one of the forums: there a woman complained that she had purchased one color, but was sent another. In general, we do not recommend doing this. This is exactly the kind of product you need to see and touch before you buy...
Relin
It's not even linoleum, but rather a rubber coating. Very durable, comfortable, has good soundproofing properties. But, if we are talking about an apartment, it is not recommended to lay such linoleum, since it still contains harmful fumes that do not erode for a very long time.
Yes, it is resistant to pressure, and the only place where it can and should be used is the vestibule in which you take off your shoes. Not a corridor, but a vestibule in which people stay for a few minutes. And his price is fair, by the way.
Which brand of linoleum is better to choose?
And finally, let's touch on the topic of manufacturers. Naturally, the ideal option is European manufacturers, but the price of such a coating is “biting” in comparison with domestic or Chinese factories.
There is no point in listing the names of companies, since they are expanding every day, and it is not easy to keep track of them all.
The only thing that can be said is that European linoleum is better than domestic, and domestic is better than Chinese.
That is, look for yourself, think for yourself, but be sure to pay attention to the smell!
As we already wrote above, it is advisable to first look at linoleum, then read about it real reviews and only then give the command to the sellers: “Cut!”
In conclusion, what more can be said? We have told you all the possible nuances, and now you will be quite savvy when you come to the store. You now know which material is better in quality, what width and thickness linoleum is and what size is the most optimal.
Among the many flooring materials that have already gained popularity among consumers, linoleum has also gained a foothold. This material is accessible, low cost and well suited for flooring in any room. It has been used for 200 years. Despite the fact that there are more floor coverings, linoleum has not lost its popularity. All this is thanks to the advantages of the products. The coating is not only cheap, but also soft, springy, while at the same time remaining durable so as not to crack. Caring for linoleum is quite simple. I am also pleased with the huge range of goods. But this fact confuses some consumers. They cannot choose high-quality coverage for themselves. That’s why today we’ll talk about how to choose linoleum for an apartment based on quality and other factors.
We will look at the types of coatings, compare the characteristics and find out the requirements for it. This will help you choose the right linoleum for any room.
Types of linoleum
First you need to consider what I am ready to provide you with today modern market, to decide in advance on the type of linoleum for the kitchen or room. You might not know, but linoleum has several varieties that have their own advantages and disadvantages. In addition, the products have their own characteristics and scope of use. When buying linoleum, you should definitely pay attention to this.
So, here are the types of linoleum:
- natural linoleum;
- PVC linoleum;
- glyphthalic linoleum;
- colloxylin linoleum;
- linoleum relin.
Let's take a closer look at each type of material.
Natural material
Based on the name, it becomes clear that environmentally friendly and natural materials are used for production. The composition of the flooring is simple: linseed oil, cork and wood flour, limestone powder, pine resin and natural dyes. Linoleum is based on jute fabric.
Due to the fact that floor products are 100% environmentally friendly, by choosing them you don’t have to worry about the health of your family members, especially children. The product is not dangerous for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.
- The material is abrasion resistant.
- It is environmentally friendly and does not emit harmful substances.
- Over many years of operation, the color and structure do not change.
- Not devoid of bactericidal properties.
- It is non-flammable, which is very important.
- Caring for the material is simple.
- Huge range of colors and designs.
- fragile, if you bend the material too much, it can crack;
- use in areas where high level humidity (bath, kitchen) is not recommended;
- has a high cost.
PVC (synthetic) material
The basis of this floor covering can be a non-woven or woven base having thermal insulation properties. Today, PVC linoleum, even domestically produced, is manufactured in accordance with the latest European technologies.
- Has dielectric properties.
- Has low thermal conductivity.
- It is also environmentally friendly.
- Doesn't rot.
- Installing and caring for linoleum is quite simple.
- Large assortment of patterns and colors.
- afraid of elevated temperatures;
- cannot be considered environmentally friendly;
- the material is unstable to alkalis and chemical solvents;
- When the temperature decreases, elasticity is lost.
Glypthal products
They have interesting technology production. For manufacturing, an alkyd resin is applied to a fabric base. The peculiarity of the products is that they have good sound and heat insulation.
At the same time, the material is quite fragile and difficult to install.
Colloxylin products
The basis of this linoleum is nitrocellulose. Its advantage is that the material is quite elastic, non-flammable and resistant to moisture. The disadvantages are the likelihood of shrinkage and increased sensitivity to temperature fluctuations.
Relin
This linoleum is based on two layers. The first is crushed rubber and bitumen. The second is a pigment mixture with rubber and a special filler. The material is cheap and used extremely rarely. Due to its composition, it is not very safe.
Wear resistance class of linoleum
Before buying a product, you need to understand the wear resistance classes, since the scope of use also depends on this. If we take into account the speed of abrasion and the thickness of the protective layer, then linoleum can be divided into 3 types:
To know which linoleum to choose for an apartment, it is important to understand the classification of products not only of domestic standards, but also by European standards. It is also supported in Russia.
The classification is as follows:
- for use in apartments (in the meaning of the material the number 2 appears first);
- for use in offices (3);
- for use in industrial premises (4).
Further, the classification is expressed in numbers from 1 to 4. At 1, linoleum can withstand minimal load. But with a value of 4, linoleum is able to withstand high loads and abrasion. Thanks to this scheme, invented by Europeans, you can choose your own linoleum. Often it is placed on a roll with the product.
We can conclude that for a large family you can purchase a product of class 31, no lower. Class 23 can be used for the kitchen, provided that the family is small. But for the bedroom you can choose 21 classes, it will be enough.
Choosing linoleum for the substrate
It is important to pay attention to the substrate for the material. Previously, a felt backing was used, but now foam is preferred. Choose carefully, focusing on the density of the substrate. The denser it is, the better the linoleum will resist pressure from the cabinet, chair legs and other heavy objects. You can even determine the density by weight, because with a high-quality substrate, linoleum will be much more solid and massive.
Still, it is better to test the product by touch so as not to be disappointed with the material you have chosen. Just press down on it. In the case when it springs without pressing down, you are in trouble. quality linoleum. You can buy it with confidence. It will not leave marks from heels, etc.
In addition, a high-quality substrate not only resists shock and pressure. It allows you to save heat and reduce noise that enters the apartment. Due to the thick layer of foam, your floor will be quite warm. And due to this, you can hide some unevenness of the floor on which you will lay linoleum.
Note! The felt backing resists impacts and pressure a little better.
What else you need to know when purchasing
Now we will look additional tips that will help you choose the right linoleum. You need to know a few things to pay attention to in the store.
If you carefully study the icons on linoleum, you can find out a lot of information for yourself. This will help you choose the right product and simplify the task.
Choose the color and texture of the material
The appearance of the room, its interior and perception partly depend on the floor covering. It plays an important role in finishing. Therefore, it is important to choose the right color scheme and material patterns. For example, cold tones can evoke certain feelings, while warm ones can evoke completely different ones. Here your imagination can run wild and you can experiment with it.
Thanks to the selected color of the material, you can make the room cute and cozy or strict and office-like. That's why when choosing, you need to focus on the purpose of the room and your goals. In addition, it takes into account overall design. Linoleum should fit harmoniously into it. Here are some examples.
If we talk about the design of bedrooms, it is recommended to use warm and bright hues material. Linoleum can be beige, cream, milk or coffee. There is an option to finish the floor with linoleum, which imitates marble or wood. An intricate linoleum ornament would also be useful to add originality. But for a children's room, it is better to choose bright, not gloomy linoleum and with funny designs. Such material will immediately cheer you up and children will like it.
Exists little trick, in the case when the room has small size. It can be visually expanded if you choose a pattern with diagonal lines or a material pattern like small tiles. And in order to divert attention from the flooring and highlight the furniture, it is better to buy products with abstraction.
Conclusion
Thanks to this article, you learned how to choose the right linoleum. We looked at flooring options and found out their pros and cons. In addition, you were able to delve into the characteristics of the products to consider the properties and scope of use of the material. All this will be useful for your purchase. Consider all the tips from the article to buy for yourself quality product, which can withstand all the hardships and hardships of even the most loaded room. In addition, look at the manufacturer's company. This is a guarantee that you will not buy low-quality material. In Russia, the Tarkett brand, IVC from Balta Group and the Slovenian Juteks (a very common option) are quite popular.
Which linoleum is better to choose for your home? Surely you are also tormented by this question when you look at the assortment PVC coatings, which are offered by local stores. Despite the huge variety of other, varied materials, linoleum still remains no less popular as in the last century. This is not surprising - after all, it has a lot of patterns and colors, is very easy to install and its cost is much lower, for example, the same laminate.
But I don’t think it’s worth telling you that it is soft to the touch and at the same time elastic and does not crack over time, like laminate or ceramic tiles.
The price range of linoleum has a wide range. This leads to the question - which linoleum to choose so that in a couple of years you don’t have to change it again. Let's look at this with you in this article.
Choice of linoleum
When choosing linoleum for your apartment, you can get confused in the wide range of floor coverings presented in stores. To go to the store you need to clearly decide on the following parameters:
- For what room do you need linoleum (hallway, kitchen, children's room, hall, bathroom).
- What is the maximum load for this type of linoleum and whether it fits your parameters (how many people live in the apartment, what is the estimated traffic capacity).
- What basic parameters should your future floor have (sound insulation, moisture resistance, heat conservation).
- How will it fit into the interior of your home? There are hundreds of varieties on the market color solutions linoleum, ranging from standard abstractions to imitation wood, parquet, stone.
What does it consist of?
To quickly decide which linoleum is better for home , you first need to find out what types of linoleum are on the market. It just so happens that not all linoleum is made from natural materials. The watch is still produced on the basis of synthetics. For example: colloxylin, polyvinyl chloride, glyphthalic. This is far from full list those materials from which linoleum is made. Only then will you be able to choose required material for your home once you understand what each type of this common flooring is.
Which type should I choose?
Of the majority of factors by which it is customary to divide good linoleum for an apartment into types, we will focus on two main ones:based and without basis. Let's take a closer look at each of the types presented below and try to determinewhich linoleum to choose for your home?
Types of linoleum
Household coatings are divided into three main groups:
- heterogeneous (which consist of several layers) foam coatings
- homogeneous (one layer) - they have no base
- linoleum on a fibrous needle-punched base
There are several factors that determine the type of linoleum. One of them divides linoleum according to the presence of a base:
- Linoleum based;
- Linoleum without base.
Baseless linoleum
It consists mainly of three or more layers (polyurethane, a layer with a pattern, fiberglass and a base layer). Presented wide choice both sizes and colors. And more expensive analogues have a wide surface, the so-called imitation. This type considered the most wear-resistant. Recommended use in places where there is a lot of traffic.
It’s okay if you lay it in your apartment where 2-4 people live. TWhich linoleum is better to choose for the bedroom.
Linoleum based
This type is further divided into several subtypes, which have differentlinoleum base, which one is better for you to choose:
Foamed linoleum
Quite flexible coating with good durability and various color options. Mainly used in residential areas.
Linoleum on jute (fabric) basis
The wear resistance of this linoleum depends on the thickness of the protective layer. You can also choose any patterns and colors for linoleum. This linoleum is used in residential areas where there is no large traffic of people and additional thermal insulation of the floor is required, for example, to insulate a balcony.
The most expensive are special PVC coatings. They are used as a finishing floor covering in places with special operating conditions. This type of linoleum has high wear resistance, fire resistance and is equipped with a layer that ensures electrical safety.
Important!
PVC linoleum is also divided into separate classifications:
- home (for private houses and apartments);
- semi-commercial linoleum ( for beauty salons, solariums and other places with low traffic);
- commercial linoleum ( trade showrooms, grocery stores, - where there is high traffic).
Natural linoleum
A good linoleum for an apartment should be natural! The production of natural linoleum involves the use of mixtures of pine resin, wood flour, natural dyes, linseed oil, cork flour and limestone powder, and the base is made of jute fabric. Due to the fact that all the materials included in this linoleum are natural, it has proven itself to be excellent for flooring in children's rooms and in the homes of people who suffer from diseases such as asthma.
Its advantages:
- abrasion resistant
- consists of environmentally friendly materials
- color does not change over many years, does not fade in sunlight
- includes bactericidal properties
- does not smolder or burn (if you put out a cigarette, there will be no traces left)
- ease of maintenance and care
- wide range of shades,“marble” or plain pattern
Its disadvantages:
- high fragility class (it is prohibited to throw and bend during installation work , cracks may appear);
- if indoors high humidity, it is better to refrain from using it (for example, a bathroom, bathtub)
- the cost is high compared to analogues
P Olivinyl Chloride-linoleum
PVC linoleum can be single-layer or multi-layer and is made on a non-woven base with increased thermal insulation. IN Lately Russian manufacturers began to produce this type coatings on Western machines, due to which price policy has become acceptable for this type of coating almost everyone who wants it.
Advantages:
- not high thermal conductivity
- dominated by dielectric properties
- environmentally friendly
- doesn't rot
- a wide variety of patterns, designs and colors;
- easy to install
Flaws:
- critical of high temperatures
- solvent or alkali may leave a permanent mark
- at low temperature loses elasticity and may burst
Varieties of synthetic
- domestic
- semi-commercial
- commercial
Household linoleum (suitable for an apartment or a private house ) less thickness, Why is it cheaper?, on this he loses a good part of its service life and will last no more than 3-5 years.
Commercial linoleum(suitable for office and work spaces) has the highest wear resistance, is the thickest and most durable, can delight with its beauty for more than 20 years.
Semi-commercial linoleum is a middle link between the two types described above, most often used in commercial areas with low traffic, or in at home, where greatest cross-country ability. The declared service life of such coating is 6-20 years.
Alkyd (glypthal) linoleum
Very easy to make. Alkyd resin is applied using special equipment on a fabric base.
Advantages:
Sound and heat insulation at a high level
Flaws:
- Fragile as a consequence why problems arise during installation
- Over time, cracks and breaks may appear
Before starting installation work, it is recommended to leave in a warm room for 3-5 hours, otherwise it may happen coating deformation: length may become less, and the width is larger.
N ytrocellulose is the main component of the components in the production of this floor covering. Belongs to the category baseless.
Advantages:
- Moisture resistant
- Has increased elasticity
- Non-flammable
- Shimmers in the light with a peculiar shine
Flaws:
- May shrink
- Critical to temperature changes
Linoleum is a two-layer type. The lining layer is made from waste rubber tires with the addition of some bitumen. Facial layer (top) results in mixing rubber, filler and coloring pigment.
Advantages:
- Has increased elasticity and high stability to moisture
Flaws:
- The composition includes substances that are harmful to the body and gradually evaporate. va.
- It is forbidden to cover floors in residential premises
Which color should I choose?
After you have selected the technical requirements for linoleum, it’s time to think about choosing colors. If there were 2 types of flowers on the shelf in the store, it would be easier to choose. And when there are 27 titles, what to do? The choice is not an easy thing. Let's look at some recommendationswhat color of linoleum is better for the home?
According to an expert designer, it is worth considering the fact that based on the volume of the room and its lighting, each of the colors will look different.
Shades of yellow and green are designed to relieve fatigue
Gently yellow and light beige shades will give the average person a warm feeling of comfort
Hue turquoise color ideal for installation in the bathroom, as they will be associated with freshness
Blue or blue shades will look good in conference rooms or bedrooms as these colors are relaxing.
Colors such as orange, yellow or red bring notes of positivity, a feeling of cheerfulness and warmth.
In work areas or offices, all shades of gray are best suited, as it is not distracting and helps to concentrate
Linoleum white, in the interior it can be combined with any colors, which is why designers will like it
The opposite black can only be used as an addition to the interior composition
And in conclusion, we give you 10 tips what linoleum to choose for your home.
Video instruction
Designers often suggest using linoleum as a floor covering. Right choice and the installation of this material can transform the room and make the interior original. How to choose linoleum, what should you pay attention to? The answer to this question will be given in this article.
When choosing linoleum, you should consider its advantages and disadvantages. Benefits include:
- the ability to be used for finishing premises for any purpose;
- long service life;
- aesthetic appeal.
This type of flooring is easy to install. It doesn't matter whether the floor in the room is concrete or wood. Linoleum with a backing does not require significant effort to level the base: small irregularities and defects will be hidden.
If funds for repairs are limited, it is recommended to use linoleum as a floor covering: its price is lower than that of other materials.
The disadvantage is the content of harmful substances, which is typical for some types of cheap and not high-quality coating based on PVC.
Decorative qualities of linoleum
Modern floor coverings on artificial and natural bases allow you to create smooth or textured surfaces. Linoleum goes on sale in tiles and in the form of rolls. The pattern can imitate natural wood, stone or ceramic tiles. Floral and geometric patterns are used. This coating has very high strength (for example, acczent linoleum), which allows it to be used for finishing premises for various purposes.
When choosing linoleum, you must consider the following:
When choosing the color, pattern and texture of linoleum, they are guided by the general concept of finishing the room. Linoleum should be combined in style and color with other interior elements.
Signs of quality linoleum
It must be taken into account that the choice of material depends on the functional purpose of the room and its traffic. For example, linoleum for a hallway may not be suitable for a nursery or bedroom.
You can determine the purpose of the material by the two-digit marking on the product label. First digit meanings:
- 2 – used in residential premises;
- 3 – for offices;
- 4 – for production areas.
Meanings of the second digit:
- 1 – material for low-traffic areas;
- 2 – for medium load;
- 3 – for loaded floors;
- 4 – for rooms with high traffic (load).
The combination of these numbers can indicate the operating conditions for which the flooring is suitable. For example, in the kitchen you can use linoleum of class 23, and for the hallway you need material of class 31 or 32.
The quality of linoleum is assessed according to the following indicators:
- environmental Safety;
- abrasion strength;
- tensile strength.
The strength properties are evidenced by the thickness of linoleum and its density: heavier material will withstand greater loads. You should pay attention to the thickness of the top layer: it should be within 0.16 - 0.6 mm.
The quality of linoleum can be assessed by the following criteria.
- High-quality coating does not have any sharp or unpleasant odors.
- The surface layer should not be overly shiny.
- The presence of the manufacturer's logo on the label.
- Number of layers: there must be at least five.
- The pattern on the surface should be embossed and clear.
How to choose the right linoleum for different types of premises
When choosing linoleum, you must follow certain rules.
Choosing linoleum for installation in an apartment
Before you buy linoleum for your apartment, you should study its composition. It is recommended to choose a synthetic one made from polyvinyl chloride. Three varieties are available:
- with a base made of felt, polyester or jute (sold in rolls 1.5-2.0 m wide);
- foamed vinyl (linoleum width 1.5-4.0 m) is soft;
- duplicated - on a non-woven base made from a vinyl base.
For rooms with different purposes, you should select flooring with appropriate properties.
- Hallway: linoleum is purchased for it, the thickness of which should not be less than 3 mm with a top layer of 0.25 mm or more. Such parameters are typical for high-strength flooring.
- Kitchen: ordinary household linoleum made of foamed PVC, as well as semi-commercial ones, can be laid on the floor.
- Hall and living room: these rooms require a floor covering with a total thickness of 1.5 mm or more. The top (protective) layer is at least 0.15 mm. Polyester fabric fully satisfies these requirements. If it is necessary to highlight linoleum against the background of furniture and not very expressive wall decoration, the colors of the coating should be bright. At the same time, the general concept of interior decoration must be maintained.
- Bedroom: a low-traffic room where linoleum up to 1.5 mm thick is laid. The material used is polyester and foam based.
What should linoleum be like for a children's room?
The main requirement for flooring for children is safety for health. Natural linoleum in this case is better suited than other types. The main ingredients for the production of natural linoleum: linseed oil, wood flour, natural dyes and resins.
Its qualities:
- does not cause allergic reactions;
- does not contain harmful chemical compounds;
- abrasion resistant;
- does not support combustion;
- resists the spread of mold.
Important: linoleum for children's rooms must have good sound and heat insulating properties. Flooring with a felt backing would be a better choice.
Linoleum for heated floors
For heated floors, you cannot use linoleum on jute and felt base. Floor coverings made of foamed polyvinyl chloride are also not suitable: such materials are good heat insulators. Other types of linoleum can be laid on top of the “warm floor” system, provided that the heating does not exceed 27°C. Violation of these conditions can lead to warping of the material and discoloration.
In the event that the floor is expected to be heated to higher temperatures, special linoleum with special markings is laid (photo shown below).
In conclusion, a short video with expert advice on choosing flooring.