Linoleum natural for the house. Which linoleum is better for an apartment - household or semi-commercial, foam-based, or felt? Rumors about linoleum and their debunking

There are so many different floor coverings on the market today that everyone can find the one that suits them best. For some people, choosing the right material can be an interesting task, for others, such a process turns into something difficult and unthinkable, due to the fact that each material has a number of its own characteristics, both in appearance and in quality characteristics. This article will be about which linoleum is best suited for various rooms of a dwelling.

Pros and cons of PVC flooring

Perhaps there is no other floor covering than linoleum, about which so many myths would not go and there were no different opinions. This should not be surprising, because it is linoleum that is assigned the leading position among other floor coverings in Russia.

Compared to other floor coverings, the best linoleum has the following advantages:

• many design solutions: in shades, colors, patterns imitating wood, stone, and even laminate (read also: "");
• a variety of types of material in terms of wear resistance, which affects its placement in a particular room;
• it takes a minimum of time to clean it;
• it is easy to lay even without the help of specialists;
• affordable price (about 180-450 rubles per 1 m 2);
• under it, small irregularities of the base are easily hidden;
• not afraid of exposure to water;
• the coating is so versatile that it can be laid in many types of premises.

However, PVC-based linoleum has a number of disadvantages:

• the presence of an unpleasant odor for some time after its installation;
• easily damaged due to direct mechanical impact;
• has an artificial basis;
• is rather slippery;
• cheap varieties look bad on the outside.

However, the advantages of linoleum outweigh the disadvantages by a ratio greater than that of other floor coverings. The latest, the best linoleum, has practically no flaws.

Currently existing sanitary and fire regulations guarantee the presence on the market of materials that are devoid of unpleasant odors, while they have the maximum environmental friendliness. The latest technology has made it possible to develop linoleum even with an antibacterial coating. In addition, the latest models are equipped with a reinforced polyethylene layer, embossed, which makes linoleum as similar as possible to natural materials.

Choosing the best linoleum

In order for the choice of linoleum for the house to be the most successful, you first need to decide in which room it will be used. As a rule, this criterion is decisive. Let's figure out which type of linoleum to choose for the floor is best in this or that case.

Room types are as follows:

• household;
• office;
• production.

In this case, the linoleum marking may contain a number or a pictogram: house (2); building (3) or factory (4).

The force of impact on linoleum is low, medium, high and very high. On linoleum, this is reflected by a pictogram in the form of little men - from 1 to 4.

All factors together - the type of room and the load on the coating, form wear resistance classes of linoleum, which are:

• 21-24 - for the home;
• 31-34 - for the office;
• 41-44 - for industrial premises.

Linoleum, parquet, laminate, carpet and tiles are divided into the same classes, even though they have completely different characteristics.

It is worth talking about these two types of premises, such as office and residential, in detail.

To choose linoleum for the home - which one is better suited in a particular case, it is worth highlighting 3 types of premises:

1. The bedroom, study or wardrobe have a low load - class 21 is suitable.
2. In the living room and children's room, the average load on the coating is 22 class.
3. In the corridor, hallway and children's room with several children - a high load - 23 class.

Offices can also be divided into three types:

1. Offices without visitors and hotel rooms - low load - 31 class.
2. Negotiation rooms in business establishments, banquet rooms, reception rooms - average load - 32 class.
3. Schools, institutes, offices with high attendance, shopping centers, hotel and hospital corridors - high load - 33, 34 classes.

That is, knowing what type of room this or that room belongs to, you can choose a fairly strong linoleum. The only thing to consider is that the higher the strength class of the material, the more expensive it is. Therefore, one should approach the choice of material, starting from expediency, thinking about whether it is worth overpaying for a material with high strength indicators, or, conversely, whether it is worth saving.

In addition to wear resistance, you need to pay attention to other characteristics.

Some types of linoleums have the following advantages:

• the presence of an auxiliary protective layer of varnish - makes cleaning much easier;
• antibacterial layer - does not allow bacteria to develop on the floor surface;
• double base - gives the coating additional strength and softness, the floor absorbs noise better and retains heat better;
• natural relief - the latest technologies allow you to create a texture that is as close as possible to natural material - such a coating has a higher cost.

Base selection

Which base of linoleum is best suited for your premises will be most influenced by: the appearance of the coating, your personal preferences, strength, softness, safety.

The basis of linoleum can be of several types:

• jute;
• felt;
• polyester;
• from polyvinyl chloride;
• combined.

The disadvantages of the basis of jute and felt include the impossibility of using such material in a humid environment, in addition, various microorganisms can start on it. This is because these materials are natural. The vast majority of currently existing varieties of linoleum have a synthetic base made of PVC or polyester.

But the best choice is still materials on a combined basis of PVC and polyester. Such linoleum has improved characteristics acquired from these materials.

Among them are:

• sound and heat insulation;
• increased strength;
• size constancy;
• complete resistance to moisture;
• prevents mold and mildew from forming.

Adhesive selection

Since the technology of laying linoleum involves gluing it to the floor to extend its service life, it is desirable that the adhesive be of sufficient quality and correctly selected.

To glue linoleum to the base, you need to purchase a dispersion adhesive. A reactive adhesive, referred to as "cold welding", will be required to bond the joints. It temporarily softens the linoleum, due to which the joints are connected into one. You can also resort to hot gluing, but in this case you will need to get a building hair dryer.

Deciding on a color

After you have decided on the basis on which the linoleum will perform its functions better, you can proceed to the choice of colors. Naturally, in this case there simply cannot be a universal solution, there are only tips on combining color shades.

Keep in mind that the same color scheme may look different in rooms of different sizes and with different lighting.

A number of combinations that are suitable in one case or another:

• shades of yellow and green are best suited to relieve fatigue;
• warmth and comfort will be brought into the room by shades of beige and pale yellow;
• to give the bathroom freshness, you can choose a turquoise hue (read also: "");
• in meeting rooms, as well as in bedrooms, blue and blue colors are best suited, which relax well and can cause a sleepy state;
• bring the body into tone, invigorate, endow with a positive mood and warmth red, yellow and bright orange colors;
• to create a working environment, you can choose gray linoleum;
• designers can pay attention to white color, it is combined with all shades.

Myths about linoleum

Linoleum cracks and dries

On the old Soviet-era linoleum, cracks did often occur, and it also dried out over time. This happens because the manufacturer chooses the wrong materials to form the base. Currently well-known companies, such as Tarkett, IVC, Sinteros, produce products exclusively from high-quality materials.

It is worth noting that if linoleum is brought into a room from the street, where the temperature was below 15 ° C, it needs time to reach the temperature of the room, usually 24-48 hours, otherwise it will crack, regardless of the quality of the material.

Over time, on light linoleum, the surface wears out from traces

Naturally, the coating may lose its brightness over time. However, as a rule, this is not affected by the quality of the material, but by the technology of laying linoleum and its operation.

Firstly, this happens if linoleum is laid on a painted wooden floor, or if it is opened with chemical mixtures, such as bitumen or drying oil. After some time, these substances are able to penetrate through the linoleum.

Secondly, if the installation of linoleum was made in a room with an aggressive environment.

In such cases, it is better to pay attention to solid linoleum, and not to buy light shades. In addition, try to lay linoleum on a perfectly flat base, this will extend the life of linoleum.

Outcome

When choosing linoleum, remember that you need to pay attention not only to the class of the product, but also to take into account the basis on which it will be laid. Even having bought the most expensive type of linoleum, one cannot be sure that it will last a long time if the elementary technology of its installation is not followed. And do not forget that the base must be carefully prepared for laying linoleum.

Despite the fact that today there is a huge selection of floor coverings, linoleum remains the most popular. By purchasing this material, the consumer receives a reliable and durable foundation for a relatively small amount, which is not afraid of moisture or mechanical damage. Next, we will analyze in more detail the advantages and disadvantages of this material. The article will also tell you which linoleum to buy in an apartment.

Main characteristics

Until recently, the main drawback that prevented choosing linoleum for an apartment as the preferred material was a large number of synthetic components in it. Today, however, natural ingredients are increasingly being used in production. Therefore, when asked by consumers about whether linoleum is harmful in an apartment, manufacturers confidently answer in the negative. One of the most important indicators of a material is its strength. High-quality linoleum is not subject to mechanical damage from a fallen object or the heels of women's shoes. Thus, another important indicator is the thickness of the linoleum. For an apartment, the average value is preferable. If the flooring is experiencing increased loads (for example, in the hallway), then it is more advisable to purchase a denser material. Equally important is the elasticity of the coating. Due to this property, it is almost impossible to damage it during operation or installation.

Ease of installation

For home craftsmen, it is important that the material can be easily laid. The process of covering the floor with linoleum does not require special knowledge or special skills. At the same time, installation takes place without dust and dirt. Covering the floor with linoleum does not require serious financial costs, and it is quite possible to cope with the work on your own.

Appearance

This indicator is also important. The technologies that are used in modern production make it possible to obtain various combinations of patterns, colors and textures. Thanks to a wide range, you can choose a coating for any style of interior. Linoleum goes well with various materials used in interior decoration.

Structure

Linoleum is produced in two types. The material may be hetero- or homogeneous. The second type of coating is characterized by a small thickness. It is, as a rule, from 1.5 to 2 mm. Drawing on the material is applied using a through technology. Due to this, the pattern is not erased during operation. It is this quality that allows this type of material to be laid in places subjected to intense stress. If you need to purchase linoleum for the kitchen, then it is better to give preference to a homogeneous coating. Material with such a structure is perfect for the corridor. Heterogeneous linoleum is considered to be of better quality. Its density is much higher than that of homogeneous. It can be up to 6 mm. There are several layers in the structure of the material. The back cover is made of foamed polyvinyl chloride. This is followed by a layer of fiberglass. It is strong enough and performs the function of reinforcement. Next comes the PVC layer. A drawing is applied to it. The final finish is the lacquer finish. It contains a bactericidal impregnation, which, among other things, has a protective and decorative purpose. Heterogeneous linoleum is perfect for bathrooms, balconies, dining rooms. Often a coating with such a structure is laid in the hallways. Mixed material is also produced. This linoleum also has a multilayer structure. As a basis, a homogeneous material is used. A layer of PVC is glued on top, then - fiberglass and polyurethane film. The latter provides protection of the coating from mechanical damage. If you need to lay linoleum in a rest room, then a mixed-type material is ideal.

"Household" coverage: main characteristics

Speaking about how to choose linoleum for an apartment, it is necessary to say about some of the most important characteristics. First of all, the magnitude of the load is important. For rooms in which there are no special requirements for flooring, household linoleum is perfect. Its thickness is relatively small, and the density is estimated as medium. Weight per 1 m 2 can be in the range from 1.25 to 2.25 kg. The deformation index can be up to 2 mm. Installation of the cover is quite easy. Its undoubted advantage is that when twisted into a roll, cracks do not form on it. In addition, household linoleum has a high level of sound absorption. You can buy material with a width of 1.5-4 meters. As a rule, this type of coating is used in bedrooms.

Flaws

As practice shows, household linoleum perfectly attracts dirt. At the first stage, you can see small gray islands near the rapids. Over time, numerous "tracks" are observed, clearly showing the paths that the inhabitants of the dwelling usually move. This type of coating in the store is very easy to recognize. The material cost is the lowest. In some stores, the price per meter does not exceed 100 rubles.

"Commercial" type of material: characteristics

Many consumers ask: "How to choose linoleum for an apartment so that it lasts for many years?" Experts give a quite unambiguous answer to this question: "The commercial type of material should be purchased." The cost of coverage will, of course, be more expensive (from 500 r). However, as a result, you can purchase a high-quality and durable coating. This category presents a huge variety of textures and patterns. In the assortment presented by manufacturers, it is quite possible to find coverage for any room in the house. Often purchase commercial linoleum for the kitchen and hallway. In these areas, the flooring must withstand increased loads, be moisture and wear resistant. Service life of a covering - not less than 25 years. The material has a high degree of sound absorption, providing acoustic comfort in the room. Degree of deformation of material - no more than 1 mm. The coating can be purchased in a width of 2.5-5 m.

Semi-commercial type of material: characteristics

According to many experts, this is the best linoleum for an apartment. The average cost of a meter of material is within 250 rubles. The assortment is represented by both products of Russian and foreign companies. From the name it becomes clear that semi-commercial linoleum is a cross between domestic and commercial. This material is very practical. It is thinner than commercial. But it makes installation much easier. At the same time, its quality is much higher than that of household. Thanks to this, semi-commercial linoleum is perfect for bedrooms and children's rooms. Its service life is about 10-12 years. The surface of the material is covered with a special protective film. This allows you to easily wash off the dirt using a regular sponge and soapy water.

Specialized Material Types

In addition to those listed above, manufacturers produce varieties of linoleum with any pronounced properties. Among them are:

base material

How to choose linoleum for an apartment correctly? What should be the material - with or without a base? It should be said that linoleum was previously produced on a felt basis. This material retains heat very well. In addition, it is pleasant to walk on such a coating - it is soft. Thanks to the felt base, the material perfectly absorbs sound. But the disadvantage of such a base is a too short service life. Moisture penetration and mechanical damage are especially harmful to felt. Instead of this natural material came synthetic. The latter have all the necessary characteristics. At the same time, the artificial base is devoid of the disadvantages inherent in natural materials. The synthetic back layer can have different thicknesses. It all depends on the purpose of the room. So, for example, coatings with a base are produced for bedrooms, kitchens or children's rooms. In addition to the fact that the back layer increases the heat and sound insulation properties of the material, it evens out minor surface defects. As a result, the floor covering becomes, if not perfectly even, then very close to it.

Material without backing

This type of coating, as a rule, is laid on a well-prepared surface. Today there is a large number of bulk floors "under linoleum". In fact, the manufactured surface should be perfectly flat, but without a protective coating. This task is performed by linoleum. Material without a base is easy enough to determine. First of all, such a coating is characterized by a large weight. The material also doesn't bend well. Very often it is covered with a thick laminated layer. In this case, the problem of which linoleum to choose for an apartment, with or without a base, is solved taking into account the condition of the floor.

Material color

Speaking about how to choose linoleum for an apartment, it should be said that the material should organically fit into the interior. Today, the range of coatings is quite wide. There are a wide variety of colors available on the market. Linoleum in the apartment (a photo of the coating can be seen in the article) must correspond in scale to the purpose of the room and its design. For example, a covering of soft warm tones - golden, beige, cream will look good in the bedroom. It is preferable to choose a material without a pattern, plain or with soft transitions. The most successful option may be to imitate the surface of a natural marble or wooden coating. For the living room, both bright and saturated, and calm shades are suitable. Linoleum with an ornament or pattern will look original. Bright colors are suitable for a child's room. In combination with a variety of contrasting patterns, they will look great.

Which manufacturers should be preferred?

A successful combination of pattern and color scheme of the coating is a definite plus. However, these characteristics are not the main ones when choosing linoleum. Of particular importance is the environmental friendliness, safety of the material, as well as its compliance with quality standards. Having opted for a cheap coating, the composition of which is unknown even to the manufacturer himself, there is a high probability of getting serious diseases as a result of exposure to toxic secretions. By purchasing a model of a proven company, the consumer is guaranteed to receive a quality product that, without fear, can be used in any room of the house. Today, among domestic brands of flooring, the products of the Tarkett company are popular. This company uses only modern materials and technologies in production. Products comply with all sanitary and hygienic and fire safety standards. Products, in addition, are distinguished by a variety of design solutions.

Linoleum - the best solution for an apartment

Today, linoleum is a popular flooring used everywhere. It is used not only in public buildings, offices, but also in private apartments and houses. Low price, good performance properties, as well as a variety of colors make it versatile, allowing you to fit into any home interior.

Even for professionals it is difficult to decide on a variety of materials, not to mention ordinary people. To choose the right linoleum for an apartment, consider the existing types, their characteristics and the principle of selection.

The complexity of the choice is obvious. Especially if the criteria for each person are different. In order not to regret the purchased floor covering, you need to focus on the following basic parameters when choosing:

• purpose of the room;
• special requirements for flooring, depending on living conditions;
• apartment design.

In order to choose the right linoleum, you need to consider the above parameters. This will help you enjoy the beauty and quality of the selected linoleum for a long time.

Types of linoleum

Types - from synthetic materials to natural components

Before you make a choice, you need to study what materials are available. To date, the list of types of linoleum is diverse, ranging from synthetic materials to natural components. Having studied the types of linoleum, their positive and negative sides, you can decide what to lay in the apartment.

natural linoleum

Brand Armstrong

This type is made from a mixture of wood flour, flax oil, limestone powder, various resins, cork flour and natural dyes, which is applied to a base of jute woven material. It is used in rooms where there are people with asthmatic and allergic problems, as well as children.

Advantages:

• natural;
• abrasion resistance;
• does not fade in the sun;
• type of design;
• has bactericidal properties.

Flaws:

• expensive;
• fragile;
• afraid of moisture.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

PVC type

Among synthetic materials, it is popular with a different base (baseless, foam-based or woven-based).

When laying in an apartment, preference is given to felt-based PVC material. Thanks to its thick layer, it does not need an underlay and does not require gluing to the floor.

The main disadvantage of such a coating is that it shrinks over time, as well as the presence of a specific smell. There is an opinion that synthetic material is capable of releasing harmful substances - the production technology makes it possible to make them harmless, which is confirmed by quality certificates.

Glyptal linoleum

glyptal type

This coating is obtained by fixing alkyd resin on the fabric. The material has good sound and heat insulating properties. But the inherent fragility of the composition complicates the laying process due to the likelihood of chips and cracks. It is recommended to keep the material warm before laying to avoid deformation.

colloxin

colloxin type

This type of coating is made from nitrocellulose. Linoleum of this type does not have a base: it is not afraid of moisture, it is not combustible, it has a decorative sheen. But, its negative sides are: reaction to temperature changes and the ability to shrink.

Linoleum relin

rubber type

It is a two-layer composition, which has a lower layer - a bitumen-rubber mixture, and an upper layer - a mixture of rubber, paint and filler.

The cover is flexible and moisture resistant. But the presence of toxic, volatile components does not make it possible to lay it in apartments and where people live.

Wear classes

Wear classes - commercial, semi-commercial and household

When determining which linoleum to choose for an apartment, you need to take into account the wear resistance of the material and the type of room. Depending on the speed of erasing and the size of the layer of protection applied, all linoleums are divided into three classes.

Commercial

It is characterized by a high degree of wear resistance. Such a coating may be single-layer or multi-layer. Strength is achieved in different ways: by compacting the material or by adding special stabilizing substances. It is used in offices, schools, hospitals.

semi-commercial

This class is more durable than household. It also has a variety of colors and patterns. It can be laid in the kitchen, in the hallway, living room. Responds well to moving furniture, moderate load.

Domestic

Such linoleum poorly resists abrasion, but it has a large selection of colors and designs. It is usually used in rooms where there is low traffic (bedroom). The low price does not affect the material, it looks high quality and expensive. In places of an apartment with high traffic, it is not recommended to lay it.

Abrasion groups

Selection by abrasion group

Linoleum is also selected according to the abrasion group. What is this parameter and what is it for?

This construction parameter indicates the rate of wear of the coating. According to European standards, it is defined as follows: a piece of material is brought to a rotating abrasive. It must withstand 25 thousand rotations. After the experiment, the layer thickness is measured and the group is determined. There are several groups:

• T - the coating does not have inclusions, and decreases by 0.08 mm (high wear);
• P - the layer decreases in thickness by 0.8-0.15 mm (medium wear);
• M - the material is reduced in thickness by 0.15-0.3 mm (low wear);
• F - the layer decreases in thickness by 0.3-0.6 mm (weak material).

Inclusions that may be in the material consist of a mixture of quartz sand and chalk. This mixture reduces the wear resistance of the material. The clean material resists abrasion well and has a high wear resistance group.

Which linoleum to choose for an apartment

When determining which linoleum to choose, you should understand the markings that are applied to the material. It indicates the coverage class and consists of two digits. The first classifies the type of room, and the second classifies the expected traffic. For the living room and bedroom, choose class 21, for the corridor and kitchen, give preference to marking 23-24.

Living room

Dark colors in the living room

In this room, the throughput load is average. Therefore, linoleum here can be laid with a thickness of 1.5 mm. Give preference to household PVC linoleum with a low price.

Bedroom

The bedroom can use household polyester or PVC

Determining the patency in the room will help determine which linoleum to choose in the bedroom. The load on the floor here is small, so for flooring you can use household polyester or PVC foam-based linoleum with a thickness of 1.2 mm or more.

Kitchen

In the kitchen we use a durable semi-commercial wear resistance class

This room has high traffic, high humidity, the presence of dirt and exposure to cleaning solutions. Therefore, for the kitchen, it is recommended to choose a durable semi-commercial material with a thickness of at least 3 mm. Described in detail so that it lasts longer. For this room, a design in the form of ceramic tiles is preferable.

Children's room

In the children's room only natural material

The materials in this room are subject to increased requirements. Here you can use only natural material. Of course, the service life will be lower, but the health of the child in this case is more important.

Balcony

Balcony - moisture-resistant and frost-resistant materials

Temperature fluctuations, exposure to sunlight, possible humidity - all these negative factors test the flooring on the balcony for strength. Usually, moisture-resistant and frost-resistant materials that have an anti-slip coating are chosen for this room. The material is selected as for office premises with a heavy load.

Corridor

In the corridor - PVC

To choose linoleum in the hallway or corridor, you need to understand that this is a room with high traffic and pollution. PVC linoleum (household or semi-commercial), 3 mm thick, which is recommended to be placed in the corridor, can withstand such loads.

Choosing a good floor covering from the variety presented is not an easy task. In order not to be disappointed and get high-quality linoleum for an apartment, trust your intuition and follow the basic tips when choosing:

• the absence of a pungent odor indicates the absence of harmful substances;
• a distinct pattern on the coating without a greasy sheen;
• the material must have certificates of quality and safe composition;
• the presence of a protective layer will help to preserve the material in its original form for a long time;
• material should be bought with a margin for fitting (pattern, ledges, niches, thresholds);
• check the top layer of linoleum for defects and flaws.

Considering all the nuances, it will not be difficult to choose a floor covering, and the purchase will not bring unpleasant impressions during operation.

Which linoleum to choose for the hall

Hall - PVC coating on a jute or felt basis

For the hall it is better to choose a universal moisture-resistant flooring. It is resistant to sunlight, repels dirt. Affordable price and ease of installation make the coating an ideal option.

Choose for the hall PVC coating on a jute or felt basis. This material is elastic, soft and warm, allowing you to walk on it barefoot without discomfort. The drawing is applied over the entire thickness of the linoleum for the apartment, so its erasure will not be noticeable. Such linoleum is easy to clean, does not attract dust and debris.

Cleans with common detergents.

Which company's linoleum is better to choose for an apartment

Coverage by different companies

On the market, the coating is presented in a wide variety, both domestic and foreign manufacturers. How to choose the right linoleum for the home, which manufacturer to prefer? We can say with confidence that the material of our production is not inferior in terms of characteristics to European ones. The Tarkett company has proven itself well. Among foreign manufacturers, give preference to such firms as

• Gerflor;
• Juteks;
• Forbo;
• Grabo.

Tarkett is the world's leading manufacturer of floor coverings. PVC linoleum of this company is available in a different price range and is durable and wear resistant.

The French company Gerflor produces products of excellent quality, taking into account decorative and technical characteristics. These coatings are easy to lay even without the help of professionals. They are easy to maintain, have good sound and heat insulation properties.

The word "linoleum" actually means oiled linen. Even the ancient Vikings oiled the sails of their ships to protect them from the effects of water and moisture.

They began to cover the floors with such material in the middle of the 18th century. And then he was completely natural.

In the middle of the 20th century, due to a shortage of raw materials, natural linoleum gives way to polyvinyl chloride.

Nowadays, linoleum is the most common type of flooring. In building supermarkets and markets, its choice is huge.

Consumers want to choose linoleum that would last longer, be safe for health and beautiful in appearance. And for this you need to know how to choose it correctly.

Types of linoleum depend on:

• material from which it is made: natural, polyvinylchloride, rubber, nitrocellulose, alkyd.
• Applications: household, commercial and semi-commercial.
• the presence of a basis: based and baseless.
• structures (number of layers): homogeneous and heterogeneous.

Main selection criteria

Which linoleum is better to choose for an apartment?

Destination

An unprepared buyer pays attention only to color and pattern. Those who have already encountered or studied the issue of choosing linoleum for an apartment know that you need to build on the type of room.

In different rooms - a different load on the floor covering. This means that linoleum in different rooms should differ in its quality characteristics.

Ecological purity, naturalness

More and more consumers prefer natural materials. And flooring is no exception.

The ideal solution would be to choose high-quality natural linoleum for an apartment, it is also called marmoleum.

It is made from natural ingredients: vegetable oil, resin, cork flour, limestone powder and burlap (jute fabric).

Dyes are also used natural.

It happens that for greater wear resistance such linoleum is coated with a polymer, but you can also find a 100% natural coating. The composition most often includes linseed oil, and it has a bactericidal property.

• Good fire resistance.
• Easy to dry clean.
• Wet cleaning is allowed.
• Does not accumulate static electricity.
• The colors don't fade.

Such a coating will be ideal for the floor in the bedroom, nursery, living room.

Only a high price can scare the consumer, and also the fact that this material is quite fragile and only a professional can lay it.

Concentrated acids, alkalis, piercing and cutting objects and high humidity can spoil it.

Low price, water resistance, noise-absorbing ability, a variety of colors, ease of maintenance attracts synthetic linoleum. But, be careful: it may contain substances that are harmful to health.

Therefore, to protect yourself from a harmful purchase, ask the seller for certificates.

As a rule, household linoleum intended for living quarters is safe for people.

Thickness and Density

For many, the wear resistance of the coating is important: so that the linoleum does not “squeeze through”, it is resistant to mechanical damage, and so that the paint does not wear off.

It is not always better to choose linoleum for an apartment, focusing only on its thickness, thicker does not mean better. Looking for what.

If the safety of children is important, then a really thick foam cover with a polyester base is the best.

And for heels and furniture legs - not always, a semi-commercial option will be better, and in appearance it will be thinner than a household one.

Additional coverage

This is a protection against deep penetration of dirt, it is easier to care for such a coating. The protective layer, it is also called the worker, is on all types of linoleum. This is the top layer of the cover. It can be from 0.15 - 0.6 mm thick.

It is he who protects from abrasion. On, in the corridor and vestibule, a coating with a PVC base with a thickness of at least 3 mm is suitable, and the thickness of the working layer should be above 0.25 mm. Semi-commercial linoleum will also serve well here.

Basis of linoleum

Its sound and thermal insulation depend on the base. It can be made of expanded polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Such linoleum can be of different thicknesses. The foam base is moisture resistant, and the service life is 10 years.

Baseless linoleum is homogeneous PVC, its second name is homogeneous. This is a fairly thin linoleum (1.2-1.6 mm). The service life is 5-7 years, in order to extend it, linoleum needs to be treated with special protective equipment.

Linoleum on a heat and sound insulating base is also popular. TZI is a material made in accordance with all sanitary and hygienic standards, has good heat and sound insulation. This explains its popularity. But he does not like moisture.

Double base - foam and polyester, gives linoleum more strength.

In addition to wear resistance, other characteristics make linoleum convenient and comfortable to use.

Important criteria when choosing are thermal insulation, sound absorption, moisture resistance. There may also be requirements that it be antibacterial (for a nursery) and antistatic (for example, for an office).

We determined the type of room where you need to lay linoleum, found out what the intensity of the load is there. Now you can look at the labeling of the product.

How to read the label correctly

It is generally accepted that according to the intensity of the load, all premises are divided into residential, industrial and office.

On the floor coverings on the packaging there are pictograms that indicate the room.

The house, which denotes living quarters (number 2), the image of a multi-storey building denotes an office building (number 3) and the image of the factory building (number 4) - production.

Inside each room there is a different intensity of impact on the floor covering.

On the same packages, it is indicated by pictograms - little men: one, two, three and four little men.

The more figures, the greater the intensity of the load can be. The coverage class can be shown by numbers, or by a combination of pictograms.

For example, a house and two men indicate that the coating is suitable for residential buildings with low load intensity.

• Classes 21, 22, 23 are for residential premises.
• From 31 to 34 - for office space.
• From 41 to 44 - production.

Some manufacturers also provide additional markings:

	Coating thickness, mm
	Working layer thickness, mm
	Weight of one square meter, kg.
	Resistant to moisture
	Can be used for underfloor heating, max. 27°C
	Resistant to furniture on roller legs
	Resistant to furniture legs and heels
	Resistant to color fading
	Fire safety index (B2, RP1, D2, T2)
	Abrasion, g/m³
	Absolute residual deformation, mm.
	Change in linear dimensions, %
	Winding of a standard roller, lm
	Width in the current collection, m.

How to choose a class of linoleum

What kind of linoleum to lay in an apartment in different rooms?

• For a bedroom, an office, a dressing room - they have a low load intensity, 21 classes of coatings are used.
• If 1-2 people live in the apartment, class 22 flooring can be laid in the living room.
• With children it’s a little more difficult, you need to take into account the behavior of children: a child under one year old or a calm older child is enough to lay linoleum of class 22, but if the children are active, give preference to class 23.
• In living rooms and bedrooms, you can lay a thinner coating (about 1.5 mm), with a working layer of 0.2 mm.
• Class 23 coverage should also be laid in the corridor if the family is small. When the traffic is high, it is worth thinking about coatings of classes 31 and 32, these are laid, by the way, in small offices.

It is noticed that the more wear-resistant coating, the higher its cost. Overpaying is not always advisable.

It is better to choose a reasonably reasonable coverage option that matches the room so that it serves its intended purpose for a long time and does not overpay.

And the best part is the choice of design

Having decided on the class, you can approach the most pleasant and exciting - choosing the design of the future floor. It’s also hard not to get confused here, because there are a large number of colors. There are rules:

• color associations.

For most, beige is associated with warmth and comfort, orange, bright yellow, red - invigorate, blue - soothes, blue induces drowsiness, gray creates a working mood.

• Remember cold and warm colors.

Design techniques are often based on the play of color. For example, if you need to visually enlarge the room, use a coating of cold light colors. And warm colors will visually reduce the room, make it cozy.

Warm colors will add warmth to the “Northern” room, and cold colors will refresh the bright, sunny room on a hot summer day. Bright colors invigorate, attract attention, they are ideal for accents, they are good for delimiting zones.

• The use of geometric ornaments for flooring.

You need to expand a narrow room - direct the lines across the long walls or diagonally.

Small tiles will be appropriate only in a small room and visually enlarge it, and large squares are suitable for a large room. Natural wood and stone design gives the room an “expensive” and “eco-friendly” look.

The subtleties of the purchase

Of course, the sellers in the store will praise their product, but you must be vigilant. Having decided on the design, review the linoleum again before paying for the purchase.

In the store, the rolls should not lie on a horizontal surface, they either stand in rolls or are fixed horizontally.

Otherwise, they can be deformed and these irregularities will be difficult to smooth out. When choosing a material, pay attention to this.

Feel free to smell the linoleum. High-quality - both natural and synthetic, should be odorless, if it smells like frank chemistry - it's better to refuse to buy such a coating!

Ask for a hygiene certificate.

Bend the linoleum - if a white stripe forms on the fold, it may indicate that there is a lot of lime in the composition, so stains may appear on it over time.

Check the quality of the coating in expanded form, there should be no delaminations, tubercles, the pattern should be clear, the color is the same everywhere, there should be no greasy shine.

It is impossible to fold linoleum - the creases may not be smoothed out, and in general the material may break.

Do not use adhesive tape on the front surface, because it will be very difficult to wash off the trace from it, you can damage the coating.

The variety of colors and textures gives great freedom in the design of any interior. And the right choice and the best linoleum for an apartment will last a long time, delighting with its invariable qualities.

From this article you will learn:

• What are the types of linoleum
• How to understand the classes of linoleum
• How to choose linoleum for a specific room
• Linoleum which company is better to choose

On the modern market of building materials in Moscow, a wide range of products for finishing floors in an apartment is presented. Everyone who plans to repair faces the difficulties of choice. How to determine which coating is better if all manufacturers without exception recommend their collections, noting their exceptional quality and practicality. At the same time, the cost of such materials is not always affordable for the average buyer. If among all the selection criteria for you in the first place is the price, then it is better to pay attention to the good old linoleum. At an affordable cost, this material has a number of advantages, which will be discussed in this article. You can learn about the various characteristics of roll flooring and figure out which linoleum is best for an apartment.

Which linoleum is better to lay in an apartment, based on the type

Linoleum is a moisture-resistant flooring that has the following characteristics: flexibility, polymer composition and colors that mimic the texture of natural materials. Manufacturers offer a wide range of such products, which differ not only in color.

There is a stereotype that linoleum refers to modern artificial flooring. But this material appeared a long time ago and was originally produced from natural raw materials. Its name is a combination of two words linum (linen or linen) and oleum (oil). A patent for such material in 1860 was obtained in England by F. Walton.

The technology of its manufacture at that time was based on the production of a woven base made of linen or jute, which was processed with oxidized vegetable oil mixed with cork tree flour. The development of industrial technology has contributed to the constant improvement of linoleum. A variety of patterns and patterns began to appear on its surface.

The use of industrial chemical synthesis contributed to the reduction in the cost of linoleum, as a result of which expensive natural components were replaced with affordable synthetic canvases. This happened in the 60s of the last century. From that moment on, under the name of linoleum, a completely new artificial surface began to be produced.

Nevertheless, the emergence of demand for natural products made it possible to revive the traditions of the production of natural material, the sales of which are constantly growing. Today, linoleum is considered to be the most popular flooring option. Given the wide variety, it is necessary to understand the types of linoleum produced and their characteristics. This classification will allow you to choose the option that is best suited for your apartment.

natural linoleum

Natural linoleum is the best option for arranging residential premises. It consists exclusively of natural ingredients: flax oil, wood flour and resin, jute or linen woven fabric, limestone. For painting this type of flooring, a wide range of natural-based dyes is used.

Advantages natural linoleum:

• The strength characteristics of natural linoleum allow this material to withstand loads up to 16 MPa.
• Linseed oil provides bactericidal properties of the coating.
• Due to wear-resistant characteristics, such linoleum retains its aesthetic and operational characteristics for 30 to 50 years.
• Environmental friendliness and harmlessness to human health.
• The material does not absorb dirt, it is easy to clean and wash with conventional means.
• Lack of ability to accumulate static electricity.
• Resistant to sun fading.
• Low flammability.

The list of advantages of natural linoleum inspires respect for this coating.

But he also has his limitations:

• High cost, which is comparable to natural wood coatings.
• It is better not to use natural linoleum in rooms with high humidity, since its base can rot.
• It is better not to use this natural coating option for arranging floors in cold rooms, as it has low elasticity.
• Variants of patterns and colors of natural linoleum are not as diverse as those of artificial types of this coating.
• New natural linoleum has a specific smell, which will remain in the apartment for some time after laying the coating.

Summing up, it can be noted that natural linoleum will be an excellent option for flooring in an apartment if you prefer eco-friendly housing and are ready to go for certain expenses for this. At the same time, it is better not to use it in bathrooms, in the kitchen or in the corridor, as the natural coating is afraid of moisture.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) linoleum

PVC linoleum today is the most common coating. Its international designation is PVC. It can be produced without a base or with the following types of bases:

1. The basis of a fabric made of natural (jute) or synthetic (fiberglass, etc.) canvas. Such a base is covered with a PVC layer with a pattern. The total thickness of such a coating is up to 5 mm.
2. Non-woven base made of synthetic raw materials or felt. A coating with such a base retains heat better, but it is completely unsuitable for use in wet rooms of an apartment and in places with a high intensity of use of the floor surface (corridors).
3. The basis of foamed polyvinyl chloride appeared in the nineties of the last century and today is the most used for the manufacture of linoleum. Porous PVC perfectly withstands high loads and smooths minor floor irregularities. The application of foamed polyvinyl chloride can be carried out mechanically or chemically. It is better to choose a material with a mechanical application of the base, as it does not wrinkle under high loads.

In the assortment of some manufacturers, linoleum is presented, combining several varieties of the bases described above. Such coatings are called heterogeneous. Accordingly, linoleum with one base is called homogeneous. The number of layers of the base and the qualitative composition can differ significantly depending on the purpose of the linoleum.

Homogeneous linoleum is different in that its pattern runs through the entire depth of the coating, so abrasion of the top layer during operation does not lead to a deterioration in appearance. The thickness of this type of linoleum is in the range from 1.5 to 3 mm. It is better to buy homogeneous linoleum for places with high traffic, and it is not advisable to use such material in an apartment, since it has a high price.

PVC linoleum has gained popularity as a material for finishing floors in apartments due to the following characteristics:

• The elasticity of the polyvinyl chloride coating greatly simplifies its installation.
• A wide selection of colors and patterns allows you to better emphasize the features of various interiors.
• Affordable cost.
• High-quality PVC linoleum from the best manufacturers is a non-toxic material, which is confirmed by hygienic certificates.

Linoleum made of polyvinyl chloride has its own limitations:

• It is better not to use PVC linoleum in rooms where temperature changes are possible, as this leads to shrinkage of the floor covering.
• New PVC linoleum has a specific smell that can last for several weeks.

Alkyd linoleum

Another name for this coating is glyptal linoleum. It is produced on a fabric basis with the application of modified resins (alkyd or glyptal) using a special technology. To improve the performance and aesthetic characteristics, various fillers and pigments are added to the resins.

Advantages alkyd linoleum:

• It retains heat better and serves as an effective soundproofing material.
• Thanks to its high resistance to abrasion, it lasts up to 50 years.
• It is well cleaned from various contaminants.

Flaws glyptal linoleum:

• When the temperature drops to 0°C, such a coating loses its elasticity.
• Laying should be carried out by experienced craftsmen.
• Given the low resistance to fire, it is better not to use alkyd linoleum for flooring in apartments.

Alkyd linoleum has been used as a floor covering in public transport: railway cars, subways, airplanes, etc.

Rubber linoleum (relin)

This type of flooring has two layers. The bottom layer is made from recycled rubber and the top layer is made from artificial rubber with the addition of dyes. Between themselves, the layers are fastened with mastic based on bitumen.

Advantages rubber linoleum:

• Due to its high resistance to moisture, relin can be laid in the most humid rooms.
• Wear resistance, strength and elasticity.
• High anti-slip performance.
• Long service life.

Relin is best used for arranging the floor near swimming pools, in garages, in gyms, but not in residential areas. Laying such a coating in an apartment is undesirable, as it emits substances harmful to health.

Nitrocellulose (colloxylin) linoleum

A single layer of nitrocellulose flooring is called colloxylin linoleum. To improve performance, components such as gypsum, plasticizers and pigments are added to it. Due to its high flammability, today such linoleum is practically not used for flooring.

Which class of linoleum is best for an apartment

The difficulty of choosing a floor covering for an apartment is due to the fact that most materials are heterogeneous, combining several layers with different characteristics. To simplify the task, European brands decided to create the EN685 standard, which classifies linoleums by strength and scope. To designate representatives of different classes, digital marking with a two-digit numeric code and a special pictogram is used.

The first numeric character of the class marking indicates where it is better to apply such a coating:

• The number 2 indicates that the coating is best used for apartments and other residential properties.
• The number 3 marks materials for floors in offices.
• The number 4 is used to designate products oriented to operation in a production environment.

The 2nd digit of the class marking shows the load level for which the coating is designed:

• 1 - low.
• 2 - medium.
• 3 - high.
• 4 - very high.

Household flooring

The correct answer to the question “which linoleum is better for an apartment” is household linoleum of a class from 21 to 23. Its characteristics are described in the EN685 standard:

• Specific gravity: 1.25-2.25 kilograms per square meter.
• Coating thickness: from 0.15 to 3 millimeters.
• The elasticity of household linoleum should provide the possibility of winding on a sleeve with a cross section of 45 mm without creases and cracks.
• The ability to absorb sound up to 18 dB.
• Water absorption up to 1.5%.
• Shrinkage does not exceed 0.2 mm per 1 meter.

semi-commercial linoleum

Semi-commercial linoleum includes materials of classes from 31 to 34. They are used for flooring in commercial and office premises. They differ in the following characteristics:

• Specific gravity 1.6-2.5 kg / m 2.
• The elasticity of semi-commercial linoleum should ensure the absence of cracks when the material is wound on a cylinder with a cross section of 10 to 40 mm.
• The sound-absorbing properties of such a coating are in the range of 12-16 dB.
• Operational shrinkage should not exceed 0.1 mm per 1 meter of material length.
• The period of operation guaranteed by the manufacturer with preservation of the properties of the coating is from 7 to 20 years.

commercial linoleum

Commercial linoleum belongs to classes from 41 to 43. It is used in high traffic areas. Abrasion resistance is ensured by the presence of a hardened film layer up to 8 mm thick. Commercial linoleum retains its dimensions better (material shrinkage up to 1 mm/m). Manufacturers guarantee the preservation of the characteristics of this type of flooring for a period of 10 to 25 years.

Many companies produce commercial linoleum with high-strength PVC film. The thickness of the protective layer is selected taking into account the features of the operation of the premises:

1. A protective layer 0.15 mm thick is best suited for flooring in living rooms and bedrooms.
2. Products with PVC film 0.20 mm are a good option for children's rooms in an apartment.
3. A layer of 0.25 mm is an excellent choice for floors in the kitchen and in the hallway.
4. Linoleum with a film of 0.30 mm is best used in rooms with an average level.
5. A protective film with a thickness of more than 0.50 mm will cope well with high loads.

Linoleum sellers are required to provide the buyer with certificates confirming its compliance with applicable standards and hygiene requirements. As a rule, on the reverse side of the coating, along with the manufacturer's logo, data regarding the characteristics of the material are applied.

Such information will help you better choose linoleum:

• Coverage class.
• Batch number (it is better to buy products from one batch).
• Manufacturing date.

In addition to this information, pictograms informing about the special characteristics of linoleum can be presented here:

Which linoleum to choose for a specific room

In this section, we will figure out which linoleum is better to buy for various rooms in an apartment, taking into account their characteristics and patency.

Linoleum for the kitchen

For the floor in the kitchen, it is better to choose linoleum with high mechanical strength and moisture resistance. The best material option for this room is natural marmoleum. Such a coating has a fabric base, which is usually made from jute fiber. Marmoleum is characterized by a long service life and easy cleaning of contaminants using detergents.

Of course, it is better to buy natural linoleum for an apartment, but if you are limited in finances, then synthetic linoleum can be laid in the kitchen. When choosing such a coating, pay attention to its service life declared by the manufacturer, and also make sure that it complies with GOST standards and hygienic requirements. Flooring experts say semi-commercial linoleum is best for kitchens. Such a material has an abrasion-resistant decorative layer, a reliable protective coating and a density that allows it to withstand the mechanical load resulting from falling kitchen utensils on the floor.

From the point of view of design for the floor in the kitchen, it is better to use linoleum with a pattern that imitates natural stone, parquet board or tile. When choosing materials for the floor in the apartment, pay attention to the antiseptic characteristics of linoleum. Natural linoleum with a linen base has such properties. If you decide to buy artificial linoleum, it is better to use materials with antiseptic properties as a substrate.

The width of the roll should be such as to minimize cutting operations and reduce the number of joints (it is the joints that are the most vulnerable point of linoleum in the kitchen).

Linoleum for the corridor and hallway in the apartment

The most passable places in the apartment are the corridor and the hallway. Therefore, when choosing linoleum for such premises, it is better to first of all pay attention to its resistance to abrasion. Of course, if no more than 2 people live in an apartment, then you can stay on class 22 or 23 coverage, and not overpay for more expensive products. If you have a large family, then you will need a material with a thickness of at least 4 mm, which has a protective layer exceeding 0.25 mm. The most reliable brands of linoleum grades 31 or 32 are best used for finishing floors in the corridors of offices or commercial enterprises.

Before you start laying linoleum in the apartment, make sure that the floor does not have significant bulges and depressions. . For high-quality laying of the floor in the corridor, it is better to use a PVC or cork underlay (a natural jute or linen underlay has insufficient density to withstand high mechanical loads and abrasion).

Linoleum for an office and a bedroom in an apartment

To equip the floors in the bedroom or in the office in the apartment, it is better to use soft-foamed linoleum. In these rooms, there is no need to use high-density coatings, so you can take care of maximum comfort. Such conditions are best satisfied by artificial linoleum of class 21 with a base of foamed polyvinyl chloride. You can also use a single coat complete with a soft linen or jute backing.

If we are talking about a children's bedroom, then experts recommend natural linoleum with higher strength. Coatings of grades 22 and 23 will better withstand the loads that arise when children play with various toys.

Linoleum for the living room in the apartment

When choosing which linoleum is best for the living room, you need to take into account the possible loads on the floor surface. So, for a family of more than 3 people, which has a tradition of receiving guests, semi-commercial coverage of classes 31 and 32 can be recommended (similar linoleum is also suitable for the corridor). In addition, if you often have guests, it is better not to buy expensive linoleum, since the service life of such material will be 7-9 years.

For a living room in a small family apartment, you can use household linoleum of class 22 or 23 with a protective layer of 0.15 to 0.20 mm.

Linoleum for a balcony in an apartment

Balconies are characterized by frequently changing temperature conditions, so for flooring it is better to use materials with minimal shrinkage and high strength. In addition, factors such as exposure to ultraviolet rays and high humidity must be taken into account. As a rule, moisture-resistant, frost-resistant and anti-slip coatings are chosen for balconies in an apartment. It is best to choose the same linoleum as for office space with a high load.

Which company's linoleum is better to choose for an apartment: an overview of manufacturers

The best linoleum for an apartment, whichever company you choose, must meet criteria such as:

• High wear-water-chemical resistance, as well as bacteriostatic and absence of characteristic odors.
• Service life not less than 7 years.
• Stain resistant and easy maintenance.
• Compliance with hygiene and safety standards.

To answer the question, which company's linoleum is better to choose for an apartment, we provide an overview of the brands represented on the domestic flooring market.

Tarkett

This manufacturer is known as one of the largest global brands in the segment of natural and synthetic flooring. Its history goes back about 130 years, and today the concern has its representative offices in many countries of the world. The concern's products are supplied to more than 140 countries.

Assortment line:

1. Natural linoleum and PVC coatings (household, semi-commercial, commercial, special).
2. Parquet board.
3. Laminated parquet.
4. Cork coverings.
5. Accessories, consumables and other products for flooring.

In Russia, the brand's enterprise appeared in 1995 (Otradny, Samara region). PVC coatings are produced here. In addition, the domestic market is supplied with products manufactured by the Tarkett concern at Eastern European factories. The company manufactures products under 4 trademarks:

• Tarkett (EU, RF). The manufacturer's catalog contains about twenty collections of premium-level tiles and roll materials made from natural raw materials and PVC. Under this brand, all types of linoleum are produced with wear resistance classes ranging from 21 to 43. The main advantage of Tarkett products is the variety of patterns on the smooth and textured surface of the coating.
• Sinteros (RF). Under this trademark, PVC materials of an economy level are produced with a wear resistance class from 21 to 34. Consumers choose Sinteros linoleum for its practicality and affordable cost.
• Vinisin (Ukraine). Products manufactured under this trademark are similar to Sinteros linoleum.
• Polystyl (RF) - belongs to the middle price category. The trademark catalog contains 6 collections of coatings of 23, 31, 32, 33, 34 and 41 classes.

Advantages linoleum for the Tarkett apartment:

• Floor coverings of this brand are distinguished by high strength and wear resistance, which is ensured by the presence of a transparency with a protective layer (Extreme Protection, Titan, etc.).
• Thanks to the use of fiberglass reinforcement, Tarkett linoleum has an increased resistance to deformation.
• The best selection of designs and colors compared to competitors' products.
• The choice of the consumer in the Tarkett collections includes linoleum with three base options: foamed polyvinyl chloride, artificial felt, duplicated base.
• Tarkett materials are approved for use in health care facilities.
• The safety of the flooring of this brand is confirmed by various certificates, including documents
• Good information support.
• Simple installation and unpretentiousness in service.
• Availability of offers in different price segments.
• Service life, depending on the type of linoleum, ranges from 7 to 50 years.

Flaws:

• Tarkett products are relatively expensive;
• Linoleum, presented in the budget line, may smell unpleasant at first.

Forbo

The Forbo group of companies has a large number of manufacturing enterprises operating in different directions. The largest division unites seven European factories producing products for floor and wall finishing.

For about twenty years, the company has been producing natural coatings under the Marmoleum brand. The catalog contains coatings of all classes in various forms. In our country, Forbo production facilities were launched in 2012 in the Kaluga region.

Advantages linoleum Forbo:

• Under this brand, natural and environmentally friendly products are produced.
• The manufacturer's line includes rolled materials, tiles, as well as combined coatings based on HDF-plates.
• A wide range of color and design options (linoleum under wood, stone, etc.).
• Resistance to abrasion and exposure to household chemicals and deformation.
• Linoleum Forbo is characterized by bacteriostatic and low thermal conductivity.
• Persistent mineral dyes are used for coloring floor coverings.
• Forbo coatings are approved for flooring in health resorts and institutions for children.
• Good information support allows you to more accurately determine which linoleum is best for an apartment.
• The quality and safety of materials are confirmed by a full package of EN certificates.
• Easy installation and low maintenance.
• The period of operation, depending on the type of linoleum, is from 10 to 30 years.

Flaws:

• The high cost of all collections.
• Many decor options are only available by pre-order with a waiting period of one month.

Grabo

A flooring manufacturer from Hungary started its activity from a small workshop for the production of tarpaulin and oilcloth products. At present, the company's production facilities include four modern plants for the production of wood and PVC materials for flooring and walls.

Grabo catalogs contain synthetic linoleums of all classes (21-23, 31-34, 41-43). In the household series, you can choose a coating option with a variety of decor in different color shades (it should be noted that the choice, although large, is not as rich as that of competitors).

Grabo also produces special PVC linoleum, including coatings for transport, gyms, as well as bacteriostatic, soundproof and anti-slip products.

Advantages linoleum Grabo:

• A high degree of resistance to abrasion and deformation elasticity of Grabo linoleums is ensured by the use of fiberglass for reinforcing materials.
• A variety of designs, including unique avant-garde and children's series.
• Grabo products comply with European safety and health standards according to CE.
• Easy installation and easy maintenance.
• Affordable cost of all collections, regardless of coverage class.
• Operational period from 10 to 25 years.

Flaws linoleum Grabo:

• A small selection of design solutions on the Russian market.
• Most Grabo products cannot be used on underfloor heating.
• Low degree of resistance to pollution.

Juteks

Utex is a company with a long history. Back in 1939, a packaging manufacturing plant was established. Over time, a large European concern for the production of floor and wall coverings grew on the basis of the enterprise. In the Juteks product line, the segment of PVC linoleum with a wear resistance class of 21-34 is most widely represented. In our country, Utex production was opened in 2009 in the city of Kameshkovo (Vladimir region.).

The company markets its products under the brands:

• Juteks is a premium segment of linoleum with a smooth or structured surface. Products under this brand are manufactured at factories located in Belgium, Slovenia and the Russian Federation.
• Beauflor - business level coverage. (Produced at the enterprises of Slovenia and the Russian Federation).
• Ideal is an economical segment of floor coverings.

Advantages Utex:

• High resistance to abrasion and moisture, which is provided by additional protective layers.
• The presence of reinforcing fiberglass prevents shrinkage and deformation of the coating.
• Every year, the manufacturer updates about 40 collections with a wide variety of decor.
• All products presented in the Utex catalog have been certified for compliance with domestic and European quality requirements. For linoleum from the luxury category, eco-expertise conclusions are provided.
• Easy to install and maintain.
• Affordable cost.
• Service life from 7 to 30 years.

Flaws:

• Economy segment products have a low density of the base layer and are distinguished by a rather slippery surface. In addition, such linoleum retains an unpleasant odor for a long time.
• Linoleum with a textured surface gets dirty quickly and is difficult to clean. To remove contaminants, you will need special detergents.
• It is better not to use coatings from budget series for arranging underfloor heating.

Comitex LIN

The production facilities of this brand have been located in the city of Syktyvkar since 2002. Here, linoleum is made on the basis of foamed PVC and synthetic felt.

You can choose the material in 5 wear classes (21-23 and 31-32) from 9 collections. These are household and semi-commercial coatings, as well as a commercial series. The design is limited to natural wood patterns, ceramic tiles or marble chips. All coatings have a laminating film supplied from China.

Advantages Comitex LIN products:

• The linoleum of this brand has a waterproof surface that is resistant to active substances that are part of household chemicals and intensive operational loads.
• The quality of products is confirmed by all necessary certificates.
• Simple styling.
• Affordable price.
• The service life is from 5 to 7 years.

Flaws:

• Due to insufficient density, Komiteks LIN linoleum is prone to dents.
• The unpleasant odor persists for a long time after installation.
• It is better not to use the products of this brand for heated floors.

1. The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing linoleum for an apartment is the smell of the material. The less smell, the better the material, as it contains a minimum amount of harmful substances. Natural or synthetic material of high quality practically does not smell. The outer surface of the coating should not have a gloss, and the pattern on it is clearly visible.
2. It is good if the width of the canvas matches the size of the room. You need to buy a floor covering with a small margin, since in the process of laying it will be necessary to achieve docking of the pattern. In addition, for an accurate calculation of the material, it is necessary to take into account the presence of niches, thresholds and other features of the room.
3. It is better not to buy linoleum on the market. It must be stored in a heated room. In addition, in a store it will be more convenient to check the quality characteristics of the material.
4. Be sure to check the compliance of linoleum with hygiene requirements and safety standards. Products that have passed the examination are labeled accordingly, and the seller must present the hygiene certificate to the buyer.
5. It is better to check the quality of linoleum in rolled form. It should not have bumps, waves or areas with a peeling protective film. All these points indicate marriage, and therefore, such material should not be bought for an apartment.
6. If you decide to use the same floor covering for several rooms, then it is better to buy the material in one piece. It is only necessary to take into account the possibility of transporting a large roll along the landing.
7. You can not fold the linoleum in half and stick adhesive tape on the front surface of the material. For transportation, it is better to roll linoleum upside down. If the roll is folded "face" out, then it should be packed in a protective film.
8. In order for linoleum to last as long as possible and retain its attractive appearance, it is better to choose a coating with a special protective layer.
9. It is good if you have the opportunity to bring samples of linoleum to those rooms of the apartment where it is planned to be laid. This will help you choose the material that best harmonizes with the interior.
10. If you need to cover a large area with linoleum floors, it is better to buy material from the same batch, since the coating released at different times may differ slightly in color shades.

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