How to choose linoleum for home

Linoleum, despite the abundance of other materials for finishing the floor, is still in demand. This is due to the fact that it is very durable, wear-resistant and cheap. In addition, there are varieties of linoleum, which look quite attractive. By the way, there are a lot of varieties of this coverage, and it can be classified according to different criteria.

Classification

Existing types of linoleum can be classified by:

• the nature of the base;
• the presence of insulation;
• homogeneity.

Classification by composition

The composition of linoleum depends on its base, on the substance that was laid as a carrier. Linoleum can be made from different substances, and the future properties of the material depend on it.

PVC

Linoleum based on polyvinyl chloride has a number of advantages and disadvantages.

1. Among the advantages of such material it is necessary to note its excellent heat insulating properties. It can also serve as a sound insulator. Using this type of linoleum, you can be absolutely sure that it is environmentally friendly and safe for health. The material can be successfully used even in children's institutions.
2. Among the disadvantages of linoleum based on polyvinyl chloride, it is necessary to note its fragility. It is subject to coarsening. Often at the edges of such a material can warp and bend. Drawing on the surface quickly fades. Low temperatures are strictly contraindicated for such linoleum, as it can simply crack. After a certain lifetime, the material gives a very large shrinkage.

Alkyd varieties

Alkyd linoleum - a great modern material that is quite popular. However, having decided to lay it, you must first observe all precautions.

Linoleum based on alkyd substances can be very quickly deformed even before the flooring. In order for this to happen, the material must be kept warm for a while. The most common defect in the deformation concerns the increase and decrease of some parameters of the material. For example, it can significantly lose in width, but then increase in length.

Among the advantages of alkyd linoleum is its environmental friendliness, as well as its thermal insulation properties.

Based on nitrocellulose

1. Nitrocellulose-based linoleum has one important drawback, which must be remembered: it is susceptible to fire. In general, this material is very sensitive to temperature extremes.
2. The advantage of the material is an attractive and aesthetic appearance. These varieties of linoleum shine, they can be distinguished at a glance. Also, the material is resistant to moisture.

Rubber linoleum

This linoleum has such advantages as resistance to various adverse factors, elasticity and strength. However, no sane person will use it in his apartment. Because this material is simply dangerous to health. Of course, it does not harm immediately. But linoleum in fact serves man for years.

Homogeneity or heterogeneity

Properties of linoleum are not limited to its basic composition. Of great importance is the homogeneity or heterogeneity of the material.

1. Homogeneous linoleum is a homogeneous material.
2. A heterogeneous coating can have top and bottom layers that affect its qualities and properties.

Other classification

There is another classification, where the types of linoleum are divided according to their use in domestic or office premises.

Household linoleum

This type of material is great for both home and office space. Household linoleum is of two types.

1. Usually varieties of linoleum in this category are made on a foam basis. This is one of the most modern technologies, allowing you to create durable and warm for various needs. The basis of this material - fiberglass. The foam composition is applied on its surface. Various patterns and patterns are applied to household linoleum. The material can imitate natural stone, wood, parquet and tile. Top drawing protected by a film of polyvinyl chloride.
2. Based on fibers. It is based on polyester fibers or polypropylene yarn. It can be used both in ordinary residential apartments and in public places. Most often it is used for public places.

Semi-commercial type

Such material is made taking into account the fact that it will have to withstand quite high loads. Therefore, it is made more wear-resistant than household linoleum. On top of the material is covered with polyvinyl chloride film. The basis of such a floor covering can be foam or needle-punched layer.

Commercial

This is the type of linoleum that is made extremely durable. It is not intended for use in ordinary urban apartments. In principle, it could, of course, be laid in the house. However, this does not make sense, because the load on him there will be insufficient. Buying such linoleum will simply become a waste of money for home repairs.

Tips

In one apartment may require several varieties of linoleum.

If you have to buy materials for commercial premises, then you need to select varieties that are not only thick enough, but also protected. First of all, it is necessary to check how securely the outer front covering of linoleum is. For such premises it is better to choose special varieties.

Linoleum for living room

When buying linoleum in the living room and in the nursery, you need to think about it to be safe and warm. Ideal - material based on polyvinyl chloride. It will last long enough to recoup its cost. The price of such linoleum is not too high, so it can be changed regularly. To the touch the material is very soft. Its front side has a special protective coating that will prevent premature abrasion of the pattern.

When buying linoleum in the living room, you can limit the varieties that are 1.5-2 mm thick. If in the living room there are often a lot of guests, then it is worth purchasing material that is thicker.

Linoleum for the hallway and kitchen

When buying linoleum in the hallway and the kitchen should be purchased such varieties of material that will be quite thick. For example, in the hallway fit baseless linoleum with a thickness of 3 mm. It does not contain insulation and has no sound insulation properties.

In the kitchen it is necessary to install the material of the same thickness, but with the presence of the base, because here it is very important that the floor be warm and not let in sounds.

Linoleum in the nursery

For the nursery, sufficiently strong varieties of linoleum are chosen, and there is a reasonable explanation for this. The fact is that such premises are classified as "medium cross". It is known that children love to move a lot. Therefore, ordinary linoleum can quickly become unusable. For the nursery, it is necessary to select varieties that are 3 mm thick, but too thick and coarse linoleums should not be taken.

It should be borne in mind that children can spray paint, paint, where they should not, and generally have fun. Therefore, a high strength external protective coating material.

For quite adult children, you can choose thinner varieties. For example, this is relevant in relation to adolescents of middle and senior school age.

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