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Which linoleum is better for the home: on what basis is linoleum better. Linoleum in the house: how to choose a coating for the kitchen, bedroom, hallway and nursery What is a good quality linoleum for an apartment

Thanks to the huge assortment, choosing linoleum for an apartment or house is not difficult. It still remains quite popular, despite a large number of other floor coverings. Buyers are attracted interesting design with a variety of colors, material characteristics - springiness, softness and sufficient strength, small cost and ease of installation. Consider how to choose linoleum for quality and color, how to choose the right one for the kitchen, hall, bedroom, hallway and other rooms.

Linoleum selection options

When choosing a floor covering, consider the following parameters.

  1. Is linoleum suitable for the room.
  2. The number of residents, the patency of the place and the load on the floor.
  3. Does the coating have the necessary properties: thermal insulation, sound absorption, moisture resistance, antistatic, antibacterial properties.
  4. Does linoleum fit into the design of the apartment. It can be with an abstract pattern, plain or with an imitation of various textures: fabric, wood, stone, tiles, etc.

What type of linoleum to choose?

There are many varieties of linoleum on the market, made from synthetic and natural materials.

There are the following types of this flooring:

  • natural;
  • colloxylin;
  • rubber;
  • glyptal;
  • polyvinyl chloride.

natural linoleum

For the manufacture of natural linoleum use:

  • pine resin;
  • cork flour;
  • wood flour;
  • limestone powder;
  • linseed oil;
  • natural dyes;
  • jute fabric.


Linoleum made from natural materials is great for residential premises. It will appeal to people with asthma or allergies and is a great option. for children's room.

Benefits of natural linoleum

  • Abrasion resistance.
  • Environmental friendliness.
  • Doesn't shed in the sun.
  • Does not change color and structure over time.
  • Has bactericidal properties.
  • Does not support combustion.
  • It is easy to take care of him.
  • A wide choice of various coloring - with monophonic or marble drawing.

disadvantages

  • Relative fragility - when bending linoleum, cracks may appear, you can not throw it during transportation and installation.
  • It is undesirable to use the coating indoors with high humidity- bathroom, toilet.
  • Quite a big price.

Polyvinyl chloride linoleum is made on a woven or non-woven heat-insulating base. This coating can be both multi-layer and single-layer.


Advantages of PVC linoleum

  • Little thermal conductivity.
  • dielectric properties.
  • Environmental friendliness.
  • Doesn't rot.
  • A wide range of shades, patterns and patterns.
  • Ease of installation.

Minuses

  • Sensitivity to high temperatures.
  • Instability to alkalis, fats and chemical solvents.
  • With a decrease in temperature, the elasticity of linoleum decreases sharply, it can crack.

Synthetic linoleum it happens:

  1. semi-commercial;
  2. commercial;
  3. household.

Linoleum for home (household) cheaper, thinner and not very durable, service life no more than 3-5 years.

Commercial linoleum (for work and office space) has the highest wear resistance, it is the thickest and most durable, can serve more than twenty years.

semi-commercial linoleum used in houses and apartments with high traffic or commercial premises with low traffic. He serves 7-20 years.

There are a huge number different types linoleum their PVC: antistatic, noise-absorbing, electrically conductive.

Alkyd (glyphthalic) linoleum

The coating is made by applying alkyd resin to a fabric base. Its advantages include good heat and sound insulation properties.


The disadvantages include fragility and, as a result, difficulty in laying, as well as a tendency to breaks and cracks. Before laying linoleum, it is imperative to hold it in warm room, otherwise it may be deformed - its width will increase, and its length will decrease.

This type of linoleum is made from nitrocellulose. Usually it is released without a base.


pros

  • Elasticity.
  • Moisture resistance.
  • Decorative shine.
  • Fire safety.

Minuses

  • Tendency to shrink.
  • Sensitivity to temperature changes.

This linoleum is two-layer. Its lining is made of crushed rubber with bitumen. The front (top) layer consists of a mixture of rubber, filler and pigment.


pros

  • High moisture resistance.
  • Elasticity.

Minuses

In its composition, linoleum contains substances harmful to humans, therefore it is not advised to lay it in residential premises.

How to choose linoleum for different rooms

Linoleum is classified and labeled according to the purpose of the premises.
The first digit varies from 1 to 4:

  • 1 - areas with minimal traffic;
  • 2 - industrial premises;
  • 3 - office rooms;
  • 4 - Living spaces.

The second digit indicates the expected load:

  • 1 - the lowest;
  • 4 is the highest.

For example, class 21 coverage is suitable for a bedroom and an office. In the kitchen or in the hallway for a family of 4-5 people, material of 23-24 or 31-33 classes is suitable.

Linoleum in the hallway, corridor, kitchen

These rooms have a fairly large cross-country ability, it is recommended to lay 3 mm linoleum.


Polyvinyl chloride can be used household linoleum, but the best way- semi-commercial. With regard to texture and color, the coating under ceramic tiles- a traditional solution for these premises.

To the living room

The living room has moderate traffic, for her linoleum 1.5 mm thick- the best option.

The probability of mechanical damage is small, because here you can lay PVC linoleum or inexpensive household polyester.

Linoleum in the bedroom

The bedroom is a low traffic area, it needs thinner linoleum - 1.2 to 1.5 mm.


For the bedroom, the most optimal is household polyester linoleum or polyvinyl chloride foam coating.

To the children's room

The children's room has an average degree of patency, but a high proportion of the likelihood of mechanical damage.

In the nursery, you can lay household linoleum from foamed polyvinyl chloride, and preferably semi-commercial, having a protective top layer not less than 0.25 mm.

Linoleum on the balcony


Linoleum does not tolerate temperature extremes and Sun rays. Any kind of it will quickly deteriorate when used on a veranda, in a garden gazebo, in an unheated loggia or on a balcony.

How to choose the decor and colors of linoleum

Linoleum has a huge range of colors and designs. During production, it is given juicy bright colours that won't fade over time. Synthetic linoleum has good decorative possibilities. It very authentically imitates ceramic tiles, wood or stone.

AT recent times material that imitates parquet board or parquet. Linoleum can perfectly reproduce cherry, beech, oak, as well as exotic species - rosewood, zebrano, bamboo.


The flooring reproduces the texture and pattern of natural wood. Linoleum with imitation of solid wood boards and wood mosaics is in good demand. Extraordinary and courageous people are suitable for unusual colors and fantasy decors.

Fans of experimenting will be able to pick up abstract and original geometric patterns. Very effective linoleum with imitation of stone - marble or granite.

You can find coatings that can reproduce artificially aged materials - worn stone or wood with traces of time.

When choosing linoleum for your home, you should adhere to the following tips.

  1. Trust your sense of smell - the pungent smell of linoleum indicates its low quality. It may contain additives that are harmful to health. natural or synthetic material good quality practically does not smell.
  2. High-quality linoleum does not have a greasy sheen, his drawing should look natural and be distinct. The coating must have at least five layers.
  3. The width of the linoleum sheet should match the size of the room. Coverage must be taken with a margin so that you can fit the pattern and cut the canvas at the joints. When calculating, be sure to take into account the presence of thresholds, niches under the batteries and other projections in the room.
  4. We advise buy linoleum not in the market, but in a heated room. In addition, it is more convenient to check its quality in the store.
  5. Be sure to check coverage compliance with safety standards. Linoleum, which has passed a special examination, must have the appropriate marking. The seller must have a hygiene certificate.
  6. You need to check the quality of linoleum in rolled form. This way you can see bumps and waves on the surface or areas with a peeling top film. These indicators indicate marriage. Such a coating cannot be bought, since the existing irregularities will not be smoothed out in any way.
  7. When buying the same linoleum for several rooms, it is better to buy it in one piece. But first calculate whether it will be possible to bring a long roll into the room and whether it can be transported up stairs and narrow openings.
  8. It is strictly forbidden to fold the canvas in half. We do not recommend sticking adhesive tape to the front surface, as it leaves a sticky residue that is difficult to remove. Linoleum must be folded with the right side inward. If it is rolled upside down, then it must be wrapped with a protective film.
  9. When choosing linoleum, give preference to the coating with a special protective layer. This coating washes well and retains a wonderful appearance for a long time.
  10. If possible, look at samples of linoleum in the room in which it will be laid. This will help you more accurately choose the appropriate colors for the interior.
  11. You need to purchase linoleum in one batch. Different batches often differ in color, even when their article numbers match.

Video: how to choose linoleum

Almost everyone who is faced with the arrangement of their own housing, there is a need to learn how to choose linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality. Here you should be especially careful, because for each specific room you need to select flooring a certain quality.

In addition to its versatility, linoleum also attracts bright design and low cost. This coating has other advantages:

  • convenience and ease of installation;
  • soft and springy base;
  • does not crack.

Of course, in order for the material to last as long as possible, you need to know how to choose it correctly.

The first step is to figure out what types of coverage are produced. For example, there is:

  • polyvinyl chloride material;
  • glyptal;
  • colloxin;
  • relin.

It is clear that each of the above materials has its own distinctive characteristics.

To understand exactly which linoleum is best for an apartment, any buyer should be guided by such criteria during the selection:

  • clarify the purpose of the coverage;
  • what load it can withstand, for example, whether it will be possible to install a table, bed, suite, sofa or other piece of furniture;
  • whether it has sufficient antistatic properties, as well as heat-insulating and noise-absorbing properties;
  • whether it fits with the main design of the home.

Some experts argue that it is best to buy natural products. But I would like to refute this opinion, today there are quite good synthetic materials that differ good performance and are suitable for both a private house or apartment, and for office space. But in order to more accurately understand which coating should be preferred, you need to familiarize yourself with the information in more detail about how they differ from each other.

What are the benefits of natural linoleum?

First of all, it is worth saying that the composition of natural linoleum includes:

  • wood flour;
  • pine resin;
  • natural dyes;
  • limestone powder;
  • jute fabric.

Linoleum is a popular material that can also be used for living room flooring.

Due to the fact that this material contains only natural ingredients, it is quite logical that such linoleum can be laid both in the bedroom and in the office lobby. True, the only thing worth paying attention to is that for each specific room you need to select a coating with a certain thickness and density. natural linoleum suitable for premises intended for the life and work of people who suffer from various allergic diseases or asthma.

But besides the fact that the composition of the canvas only natural materials, it has other positive properties:

  • quite resistant to abrasion;
  • environmentally friendly product;
  • does not fade in the sun;
  • its structure does not change;
  • has good antibacterial properties;
  • does not ignite, even if a spark hits the floor;
  • it is quite easy to care for him;
  • has a very original design.

To understand exactly which linoleum to choose for an apartment, you should also understand what negative sides has some kind of coverage. For example, if we talk about natural materials, then they have such negative qualities:

  • very fragile, it is forbidden to bend it strongly;
  • it is undesirable to use in rooms with high humidity;
  • the cost is higher than that of synthetic linoleum.

Linoleum flooring - the right hygienic solution for the bathroom

It is necessary to take into account both the pros and cons, so that the choice of linoleum for the floor of the apartment is correct.

How to choose synthetic material?

If we talk about synthetics, then here it is also necessary to take into account that each individual type of material has its own characteristics. For example, PVC is made on two different bases - woven and non-woven. The coating can be either two-layer or single-layer. Has such advantages:

  • low thermal conductivity;
  • environmentally friendly;
  • does not rot;
  • has a very interesting and original design;
  • has very good dielectric properties.

But, as in the case of the previous material, there are drawbacks. The material has the following disadvantages:

  • very sensitive to too high temperatures;
  • has a low level of resistance to various chemical solvents;
  • if the air temperature drops sharply, the coating will begin to lose its elasticity.

Durable linoleum flooring practical solution for a mini gym

It is clear that any synthetic material is divided into household linoleum, commercial and semi-commercial. Therefore, in order to understand which linoleum is better to choose for an apartment, you need to know not only what material it is made from, but also what parameters it has. For example, a residential coating is much thinner than a commercial one. Accordingly, it is cheaper and has a shorter service life - from about 3 to 5 years.

If we talk about glyptal coating, then a special production process should be noted here. It is made by applying alkyd resin to a special fabric base. The advantages of such material are quite clear, they are:

  • very good sound insulation;
  • good thermal insulation properties.

But among the shortcomings it should be noted:

  • high level fragility;
  • complexity in the installation process.

Many buyers are interested in the question of how to properly lay linoleum in an apartment. If we talk about the glyptal coating, then before laying the linoleum should stand in a warm room. This will help to avoid possible deformation.

As mentioned above, when choosing linoleum, it is very important to consider in which particular room it will be located.

Linoleum imitating parquet is ideal design decision for the living room

For example, the well-known colloxin coating has a nitrocellulose base. Therefore, it has very good moisture resistance. It is often placed in the bathroom or in the kitchen. Also it has good fire-fighting properties and original external design, the decorative sheen that such linoleum radiates makes it possible to use it in almost any interior.

Natural PVC - the most popular type of linoleum at present

Relin is best laid in public places, and in places where there are no people long time. This is due to the fact that it contains materials that have a negative effect on the human body. Although over time they almost completely disappear. In addition, this two-layer coating has very good moisture resistant properties and can withstand heavy loads.

But if we talk about how to choose linoleum in an apartment, then it would be more correct to pay attention to the markings and various classifications, which are very important. For example, the first digit in the marking means the type of room for which the coating is suitable:

  1. a room in which the lowest level of patency of people;
  2. rooms in which people live;
  3. a room in which there is a large number of people (offices, shops, administrative buildings);
  4. industrial premises.

The second digit means the immediate load class. Accordingly, 1 is the lowest level, and 4 is the highest.

You need to understand that twenty-first class coverage is suitable for a bedroom or office. In the hallway or in the kitchen - 23 and 24 class. Well, the most high class- 33. Most often, buyers choose class 31 linoleum. It has the most loyal characteristics and has a pretty nice price.

What is better for the kitchen, corridor and hallway?

Talking about how to choose good linoleum for an apartment, it is important to consider where exactly this coating will be located. Let's say if we are talking about the vestibule, kitchen or hallway, then you need to pay attention to the patency. Its thickness must be at least 3 mm. It is clear that in the kitchen it is best to lay household linoleum, which is made on a polyvinyl chloride basis. Of course, it is best to use a fairly high-quality semi-commercial coating. But only it has a very high cost in comparison with household coverage.

Linoleum is perfect combination price and quality, unpretentious care

Of course, you should pay attention to the external design of linoleum. In the living room, the traffic level is slightly less, so a 1.5 mm thick coating can be used here. In this room it is quite allowed to lay a household covering. It can be a product made of PVC or polyester. For the bedroom, you can choose an even thinner coating - from 1.2 to 1.5 mm, it is better to give preference to products made on the basis of polyester.

And, of course, before making a purchase, you need to know exactly how to choose linoleum in an apartment, based on the requirements of the interior of the room.

How to make the right choice?

The above have already outlined the main recommendations that will help to make right choice. But you should understand how to choose linoleum for an apartment, based on existing requirements. To remember all this, you need to summarize all the recommendations. It looks like this:

  1. First of all, you should trust your taste and smell. It must be remembered that really high-quality linoleum does not have a pronounced smell. You should also pay attention to the fact that it does not have a greasy sheen, so the pattern on it is very distinct.
  2. The width of the coating must completely match the size of the room. In this case, you also need to take into account that the pattern must correctly match the size of the room. Therefore, linoleum is often bought with a margin.
  3. It is best to buy coverage in a store where good heating and not in the market.
  4. It is also important to check whether this product complies with all established safety regulations. To do this, pay attention to the marking and other data that are indicated on the material itself.
  5. Before buying, you should roll out the linoleum in order to be sure that the film does not peel off on the top layer. If, for example, there are bumps or other irregularities, then this indicates a poor quality of the material.
  6. Some store employees may fold the roll in half, this is prohibited.
  7. Of course, the coating must have a special protective layer.
  8. If there is such an opportunity, then it is better to "try on" - to view samples of linoleum in the room where it will be laid.

It is clear that any buyer seeks to acquire a high-quality and durable coating that will last as long as possible. To do this, of course, it should be taken into account in which particular room this linoleum will be laid and what characteristics it should have.

I like

To make the right choice of linoleum for an apartment, you need to determine the criteria that it must meet in a particular room. To do this, define:

  • maximum load on the floor (patency, use of furniture on wheels, walking in shoes with heels, etc.);
  • specific conditions (high humidity, temperature changes, etc.);
  • room design.

A solemn and elegant look can be created using finishing material light pastel colors.

Juicy colors (green, orange, etc.) will fill the atmosphere of fun and cheerfulness.

How to choose high-quality linoleum for an apartment - useful tips from professionals

  • If linoleum has a sharp and strong smell, then cheap and low-quality raw materials were used in the production. Quality coating(natural and artificial) should not have a smell.
  • You have the right to demand from the seller a certificate of compliance of this coating with technical, fire and sanitary standards.
  • Buy linoleum in a specialized store where the materials are stored in a heated room.
  • Choose a flooring that is wide enough to be laid without seams. So it will have more presentable appearance and will not cause trouble with styling.
  • If you buy different pieces, make sure that they are from the same batch and match in shade.
  • Check the quality of the coating in expanded form. If there are bumps or waves on the surface, they will not smooth out.
  • A peeling top layer, burrs on the edges, or a poorly printed pattern indicate a defect.
  • Choose a coating with additional special properties (sound insulation, antistatic, etc.) only if necessary. You shouldn't overpay for them if their presence is not important.
  • In the store, pay attention to the weight of the material. The heavier it is, the higher its density and the longer the service life.
  • You can not fold linoleum by bending it. Roll up with right sides facing inward.

If you find a marriage on the floor of the house, do not despair. According to the Consumer Rights Protection Law (Article 18), you have the right to:

  • price drop;
  • replacement for a product of a similar brand (model) or another brand, with compensation for the price difference;
  • return the defective product and return the money in full.

Modern linoleum perfectly imitates color and texture various materials(tile, stone, parquet). However, some housewives note that linoleum with a rough texture requires more thorough cleaning.

In places with a high degree of pollution, it is advised to lay linoleum in dark shades or with an abstract pattern. You should abandon the light floor in the kitchen and in the hallway.

Many note that laying linoleum does not require special skills. This allows you to do the installation yourself.

What company linoleum to choose in the apartment?

As for the question of which company is better to lay in an apartment, here preference should be given to trusted brands. They supply their products to the market for more than one year. The quality of their products has already been studied and evaluated by consumers.

One of the leading Russian firms, whose product quality corresponds to international standards, is Tarkett . Among foreign manufacturers, consumers prefer

May 27, 2016
Specialization: facade finishing, interior decoration, construction of dachas, garages. The experience of an amateur gardener and horticulturist. He also has experience repairing cars and motorcycles. Hobbies: playing the guitar and much more, for which there is not enough time :)

Linoleum is one of the most common floor coverings that is familiar to everyone. Nevertheless, many people, coming to the store, discover many varieties of it, which, at times, confuses them. Therefore, below I will tell you what to look for when buying, and which linoleum to choose for an apartment in different rooms.

Features of the choice of linoleum

When buying linoleum, first of all, you need to pay attention to the following points:

We will not touch on how to choose the color of linoleum for an apartment, as well as other design issues, since you can find answers to them in numerous articles about interior design that are available on our portal. Therefore, we consider only the selection factors relating to the performance of the material.

Parameter number 1: material

Currently, you can find canvases made from a variety of materials.

However, the following types are the most common:

  • polyvinyl chloride or PVC for short- canvases made of this material are the most common nowadays, due to the fact that the cost of products is affordable, moreover, vinyl is harmless to humans.
    I must say that PVC linoleum is one of the most versatile, as it can be used not only in dry, but also in wet areas. True, it must be borne in mind that many characteristics of the coating depend on the number of layers, the base and some other points;

  • natural- the main feature of this coating is that it is made from natural, environmentally friendly raw materials. True, at the same time, the material also has some disadvantages - it costs much more than vinyl sheets.
    In addition, the coating does not like sudden changes in temperature and high humidity. Therefore, it should not be used in bathrooms, as well as in country houses intended for seasonal living;

  • glyphthalic (alkyd)- these canvases are a good alternative to PVC coating. In particular, it has good heat and sound insulation qualities;
  • rubber (relin)- the coating consists of two layers. Upper layer most often made of artificial rubber, and the bottom of crushed rubber. This covering differs in elasticity, good wear resistance, and also resistance to influence of moisture.

Since all types of coatings have different qualities, the choice of linoleum for an apartment depends on the conditions of its operation. Yes, in the bedrooms. better material, in the kitchen or in the living room - PVC sheets. Rubber linoleum is an excellent choice for a hallway or bathroom.

Parameter number 2: type of base

Speaking about how to choose the right linoleum for an apartment, one cannot help but pay attention to the base.

According to this parameter, the coverage under consideration can be conditionally divided into the following types:

  • on fabric or felt base - retains heat well and provides sound insulation. Such canvases are an excellent choice for cold concrete floors;
  • without base- coatings of this category are the most affordable. A feature of this material is good moisture resistance and a higher level of thermal conductivity. Thanks to this, baseless linoleum can be used over "warm floors". The disadvantages include the fact that it is necessary to lay the material with your own hands on a perfectly smooth surface;

  • foam basethis species material is relatively new. I must say that there is an opinion among the people that such a base is inferior in performance to natural, for example, felt. In fact, the foam layer is more durable, and at the same time it retains heat well, and perfectly hides the flaws of the floor.

As we can see, the choice of base also largely depends on the operating conditions of the coating.

Parameter number 3: classifications of wear resistance and abrasion

According to wear resistance, the coating is divided into several classes, which determine, first of all, its thickness:

Wear class Peculiarities
21-23 (household linoleum) This floor material has the least wear resistance and is intended for use exclusively in residential areas. Moreover, class 21 can only be used in rooms with low traffic. Otherwise, the coating will quickly become unusable and will need to be replaced.
31 -34 Cloths of this class are called semi-commercial. Their thickness is from 2 to 3.2 mm (meaning the protective layer). Accordingly, the material is much more resistant to abrasion than household.

Flooring of this class can be used in the hallway if you want the flooring to be durable.

41 — 43 This linoleum is called commercial, as it has the greatest wear resistance and is suitable even for use in public places with high traffic. Its only drawback is the high price and more modest design choices. Although, these canvases can also be used for residential premises.

At first glance, it may seem that the thicker the linoleum, the better.
However, when choosing, it is also necessary to focus on the operating conditions.
For example, in the case of laying on a "warm floor" it is better to use a thinner coating.

If the wear resistance class tells us about the thickness of the sheets, then such a parameter as the abrasion class is responsible for the resistance of the coating to mechanical stress. Accordingly, it does not depend on the thickness.

Below are the main abrasion groups:

It should be noted that the above figures are conditional, obtained empirically at certain conditions. In reality, wear depends on a number of factors.

When choosing a material, attention should also be paid to the flammability class.
Slightly combustible are canvases that belong to class G1 (most models).
The most combustible are canvases of class G4.

Parameter number 4: number of layers

So, we figured out the classes of abrasion and wear resistance, we choose linoleum for the apartment further, and now we will pay attention to the structure.

According to this parameter, products can be divided into two types:

  • with a homogeneous structure - such webs have the same structure throughout the entire thickness. In their production, PVC granules and various dyes are used. As a result, the pattern is located over the entire thickness of the material, respectively, is not erased.
    Thanks to this, linoleum can maintain an attractive appearance for years;
  • with a heterogeneous structure - this material consists of several layers (from two to six or even seven). Coatings with this structure are made for both industrial and domestic use.
    Models with the most complex structure usually contain a backing made of natural fabric, as well as PVC foam, non-woven fabric, etc. This ultimately ensures optimal sound absorption and minimum thermal conductivity.
    The pattern of such canvases, of course, does not pass through the entire structure. However, in expensive models it is protected by a transparent protective layer, which ensures its durability.

The choice in this case depends on individual preferences and financial capabilities. It should be noted that the range is richer.

Parameter No. 56 cost

As with the choice of any other building materials, it must be remembered that expensive linoleum is not always good. But high-quality linoleum is never too cheap compared to other models.

Therefore, it is advisable to purchase canvases in large stores. And be sure to ask for a certificate to make sure that the material meets generally accepted standards of quality and sanitary safety.

As for the cost, below are the prices for some models, which will help you navigate when buying:

Of course, prices may vary slightly from store to store. However, if the coverage is suspiciously cheap, it is hardly worth buying it and thereby trying to save money.

Here, perhaps, is the entire instruction for choosing linoleum for an apartment. Given all the above nuances of coverage, each of you will be able to choose the best model for yourself.

Conclusion

Linoleum, as we found out, differs nearby important parameters. Therefore, when choosing, first of all, it is necessary to determine the conditions in which the coating will be used and the basic requirements for it. Otherwise, the choice should take into account the above information.

With additional nuances on the topic voiced, you can find out from the video in this article. If after reading the material you have any questions regarding the choice of linoleum, leave them in the comments, and I will be happy to answer them.

May 27, 2016

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Linoleum is a time-tested type of flooring. It is presented in large assortment, and you need to select it depending on the type of room.

Therefore, we will consider how to choose linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality, so that it is not only beautiful, but also environmentally safe, and is operated for a longer time.

Today, floor coverings are presented on the market in a huge assortment - laminate, parquet, tile, porcelain stoneware, but linoleum does not lose its popularity. Its design is diverse and many-sided, the flooring is quite simple, and the price is affordable for any consumer.

But first, let's briefly get acquainted with its types in terms of binding materials, class, scope, and how to choose the right quality linoleum for an apartment.

The main types of linoleum

To decide which material to choose for an apartment, consider its types, based on the composition, the main advantages and disadvantages.

natural linoleum

Its cake can be described as follows: a linoleum mixture of natural ingredients- wood flour, lime, pine resin, linseed oil, natural dyes. The mixture is pressed and dried according to the technology, as a result, a building material that is strong in structure is obtained.

Pros:

  • High strength, wear resistance;
  • Ecological cleanliness, thanks to natural ingredients;
  • Antistatic properties, resistant to ultraviolet;
  • fire safety;
  • The presence of bactericidal properties (thanks to flax oil);
  • Long service life (20 years or more).

Minuses:

  • High cost compared to synthetic counterparts;
  • The material is quite fragile and hard, so care should be taken when transporting;
  • It is better to entrust laying to a specialist, since you yourself may not be able to cope with this qualitatively;
  • It is not recommended to lay in rooms with high humidity.

PVC linoleum

It is produced on a fabric, non-woven heat and sound insulation basis or without a basis. It can be single layer or have multiple layers. PVC linoleum is most in demand in the consumer market, as it is the most affordable in terms of price.

Pros:

  • Environmental safety (it is non-toxic);
  • Moisture resistance, it is not subject to decay;
  • Ease of installation;
  • A wide variety of color palettes, patterns, patterns, imitations for a variety of finishing building materials;
  • Low thermal conductivity;
  • Possesses dielectric properties;
  • Unpretentious in care.

Minuses:

  • Susceptible to negative temperatures- its elastic properties are reduced, and it can easily crack;
  • Under the influence of elevated temperature, it can shrink;
  • Unpleasant specific smell in the first weeks after laying.

Alkyd linoleum

This type always has a fabric base, with alkyd resins applied to it, which improves its properties.

Main advantages:

  • Improved properties of sound and heat insulation;
  • Increased wear resistance.

Disadvantages:

  • Decreased elasticity with decreasing temperature;
  • It is advisable to entrust the laying to a specialist;
  • Before laying, he must spend the night warm in order to exclude a change in geometric dimensions.

Relin (rubber linoleum)

It is two-layered: the base is made of converted rubber, the front layer is made of a mixture of a rubber carrier with a pigment.

Positive sides:

  • High water resistance;
  • Strength, elasticity;
  • Long service life.

Negative: in residential apartments, its use is unacceptable, since relin emits harmful substances. But it is successfully used in sports facilities, swimming pools, garages.

Colloxylin linoleum

This is a single-layer baseless coating made of nitrocellulose with the addition of gypsum, plasticizers, dyes.

Advantages:

  • Quite elastic;
  • Moisture resistant building material;
  • Has a decorative sheen.

Disadvantages: prone to shrinkage, unstable to temperature changes.

Consider how to choose linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality, so that it matches the nature of the room, the requirements for flooring.

Criteria for choosing linoleum

The material must meet necessary requirements the room where it will be installed. These are moisture resistance, wear resistance, heat-insulating and sound-proofing properties, antistatic, fire safety and so on.

In addition, when choosing linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality, it should be taken into account that the actual load on the floor in living rooms is less than in the kitchen, in the hallway, and in the corridor, therefore, the characteristics of the purchased building material should be different.

Linoleum by appearance is selected based on the design of the room, its style, the overall color scheme.

It is marked by class, based on its composition and degree of wear resistance. The class is conditionally indicated in the form of two digits, where the first characterizes the type of room, For example:
2 – living rooms apartments, public buildings;
3 - office rooms;
4 - production areas.


1 - low degree;
2 - average intensity;
3 - high load intensity;
4 - very high intensity.

Considering how to choose linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality, you need to know that all types of building materials have an upper protective (working) layer, the thickness of which determines the wear resistance of the material.

The protective cover protects against mechanical damage, preserves the aesthetic and operating parameters and applied in thicknesses ranging from 0.15mm (domestic) to 0.8mm (commercial).

Scope of linoleum

The degree of wear resistance determines the scope of synthetic linoleum:

Household linoleum (wear resistance class 21 - 23) is used in residential apartments, it is elastic, designed for light loads, easy to clean, with a protective layer thickness of 0.15mm - 0.25mm.

semi-commercial linoleum (wear resistance class 31 - 34) suitable for an apartment in the hallway, kitchen, corridor of the apartment, as well as in small offices, shops, pharmacies, hospital wards, hotels.

commercial linoleum (wear resistance class 41 - 43) are laid in shops, offices, industrial premises with a high degree of load and patency. He has elevated strength characteristics and this is the thickest version of linoleum.

The choice of linoleum for the apartment

Bedroom

In the bedroom where we spend little time, class 21 is suitable. Another indicator is important for more long-term use material and resistance to mechanical stress. This is the size of the protective layer for the bedroom equal to 0.15mm.

Living room

For the living room, where we gather with the whole family and spend more time, thereby increasing the load on the floor, class 22 linoleum is suitable, the protective layer is 0.15 - 0.2 mm.

Hallway and corridor

There is a high degree of cross-country ability, since all family members move along the corridor more than once. For the hallway and corridor, a class 23 would be an acceptable option, or if the family is large, then a semi-commercial version of 31 - 32 classes, select a protective layer of 0.25 mm and above.

Children's room

In the children's room, everything depends on the age of the child or two, his activity. We consider the nursery as a room with medium traffic, but with the possibility of damage to the coating. If this happens, then we will repair the linoleum.

For children, choose class 22 - 23, a protective layer of 0.2 mm. In addition, the floor in the children's room should not be too smooth so that the child does not slip on it, it is better to choose a material with a textured surface.

The choice of linoleum for the kitchen

In the kitchen, the floor must have high wear resistance, be resistant to mechanical stress, and not react to household chemicals.

You can choose household 23, 24 classes, if you cook a little and the family is small. If there are 5 or more people in the family, then it is better to choose a class 31 - 32 with a protective layer thickness of 0.4 or more.

Choice of color, pattern

Studying the question of how to choose linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality, we will stop along the way on the color and pattern of the floor, which plays an important role in the interior.

A variety of textures and colors allow you to design stylish and interesting options. Due to light colors, correctly selected pattern, you can visually expand the space.

The floor of the bedroom, children's room is better to decorate in light, warm colors of cream, coffee with milk, beige. Linoleum imitating parquet, laminate, wenge, an interesting pattern will look calm and appropriate.

In the kitchen, you can choose a coating that imitates marble, ceramic tiles, natural stone, mosaic. If a kitchen space small, then a floor covering with small tiles will visually expand it. If the tile floor is in tune with the kitchen apron, then the overall design will benefit from this.

In addition, the orientation to the cardinal points should also be taken into account. If your living room faces the sunny side, then cool colors are preferred, and vice versa, the north side loves warm colors. Choose a pattern from the samples above or your preference.

The entrance hall, the corridor are the most polluted rooms, so the floor in the hallway should not be chosen in one color. It is well perceived in the form of a carpet, under a laminate, parquet, stone.

Consider how to choose linoleum for an apartment in terms of quality.

Buy material at winter period recommended in a store where it is properly stored and the store is heated.
Feel free to smell the coating - it should not have an unpleasant pungent odor. If the smell is present, then it is better not to buy such a building material, since it may contain additives that are harmful to health in its composition.

Ask the seller for a certificate of quality, material compliance with standards. In addition, the roll must have a special marking of the product.

Check the quality of the coating by rolling it out. It should be without delamination of the protective film, waves, irregularities.

After an external inspection, run your hand over the surface of the coating, the material should not be “oily”.

If you are making a purchase for several rooms at once, then it is advisable to buy in one piece. Based on the size of the roll, figure out if you can bring it into the apartment according to stairwell without bending. Often, a long roll has to be brought in through the window, if these are the first floors.

Going to the store, you have the size of the required piece for flooring. For example, the width of household linoleum is produced in multiples of 0.5 meters in size from 1.5 m to 5 m. If you have a room 2.8 meters wide, then you choose a 3-meter canvas, the excess is cut off. Along the length, add the presence of sills, protrusions to the calculation.

When packing the workpiece, do not fold it in half, it must be rolled up with the front surface inward. The adhesive tape should not touch the front side, since the adhesive layer is then difficult to wash off, which will affect the quality.

Purchased material is transported only in rolls. If you want to transport a wide roll on the trunk of a car, then a bar or reel is inserted inside the roll, on which it was wound. So that the edges do not sag and the quality does not suffer, place it under the roll on the trunk wooden planks, fasten.

We examined how to choose quality linoleum for an apartment and, following these simple rules, you will choose exactly what you need.