What do different varieties of linoleum

In today's market for flooring, consumers most often prefer linoleum. However, when choosing, you must keep in mind that there are a huge number of varieties, each of which has individual characteristics, which means it can vary significantly and quality. One of the most popular types, due to its relatively low cost and excellent operational properties, is polyvinyl chloride linoleum, better known as PVC.

What is PVC linoleum made of?

As the name implies, its main component is the already mentioned polyvinyl chloride with an admixture of plasticizers, which include lime flour and various pigments. In order to reduce its cost, limestone, talc and kaolin are also added. However, an important point is the exact observance of proportions, since at the slightest excess additional components significantly affects the quality that may be detected already in the process operation. A little later we will look at how this happens, the main reasons and how to avoid it.

In general, PVC linoleum, produced by a reliable manufacturer, has excellent consumer qualities, including heat and noise insulation protection. Its disadvantages include a high degree of shrinkage.

Homogeneous and heterogeneous linoleum

Any type of linoleum, PVC or any other can be divided into these two categories, their main differences are in the structure of the coating.

Homogeneous linoleum is one thick layer of one or another material, the main positive feature of which is the highest resistance to wear and abrasion. Since there is only one layer, it cannot be delaminated, therefore, after a long period time, with a deterioration in aesthetic characteristics, it can be restored by removing 1/5 top layer. After that, he can also serve for a long time.

The heterogeneous coating contains from two to six layers, depending on the further purpose. This manufacturing method allows you to create the most diverse variations of the finished product, adjusting the composition and thickness of a layer.

REFERENCE! There is linoleum with increased moisture protection, with a thickened shock-absorbing layer for sports, or with enhanced wear resistance for facilities with high traffic.

We will analyze some types of special linoleums in more detail.

Sports. In addition to the previously mentioned increased depreciation, it is covered with a top layer of polyurethane, which has high protective parameters. This provides excellent resistance to wear and abrasion, as well as to dirt.

Bactericidal. As the name implies, its surface is saturated with a special antibacterial composition that gives it a sterilizing effect. Such linoleum is in demand in hospitals, clinics, medical centers and other medical institutions.

Anti-slip. It is popular in the most traumatic places when falling on wet surfaces. These include schools, kindergartens, repair shops and some types of public transport. To give the surface the necessary roughness and relief, quartz or corundum chips are added to its composition.

Soundproof It contains an additional sound-absorbing layer. The main scope of its application are recording studios and various rehearsal facilities, as well as dance halls and fitness centers located in residential buildings.

HOW TO DETERMINE GOOD COMPOSITION

One of the most common problems consumers face is the appearance of so-called “mud paths”. The main reason for this is the increased amount of limestone, talc or kaolin in the composition, which is why the top layer is worn for some time and the filler comes out, instantly absorbing dirt and dust.

As a rule, the percentage of components is not prescribed in the product, so in order not to make a mistake in the selection, pay attention to the following points:

• too low price. Additional elements are much cheaper than the main one, so the more they are, the lower the cost;
• lack of marking on a roll;
• dubious manufacturer.

RECOMMENDED. Acquire linoleum only from well-known and trusted manufacturers, find out information about the company in advance, make it out of it and read reviews. This will take a little longer than a spontaneous purchase, however, and a quality product will last much longer.

If it is important for you that linoleum is natural and does not harm the environment, choose a coating based on jute fiber, which also contains linseed oil, resins, wood flour, limestone and natural pigments.