Linoleum is a popular and affordable floor covering that combines aesthetics, durability and ease of maintenance. However, in order to choose a quality linoleum that will last a long time and meet all your requirements, you should consider several important aspects.
We will consider the main criteria for choosing linoleum and provide useful advice from experts.
1. Types of linoleum
There are different types of linoleum, and each of them has its own characteristics and purpose:
- Natural linoleum . It is made from natural materials such as linseed oil, bark flour, wood resin and pigments. It is environmentally friendly, wear-resistant and has a long service life. Best suited for living spaces.
- PVC-linoleum . The most common type, made of polyvinyl chloride. It is distinguished by a variety of designs and colors, moisture resistance and ease of laying. Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Alkyd linoleum . It has increased heat and sound insulation, but is less flexible and can crack at low temperatures. It is recommended for premises with high requirements for comfort.
- Nitrocellulose linoleum . It has a glossy surface and high elasticity, but it is flammable. Suitable for living rooms where there are no sources of open fire.
- Rubber linoleum . It consists of two layers: the lower rubber layer, which provides elasticity, and the upper one, which performs a decorative function. It is used mainly in rooms with high traffic.
2. Wear resistance classes
Wear resistance of linoleum is one of the key indicators that you should pay attention to when choosing:
- Classes 21-23 – suitable for residential premises with low and medium load (bedrooms, living rooms).
- Classes 31-34 – intended for commercial premises with medium and high traffic (offices, shops).
- Classes 41-43 – suitable for industrial premises with a high level of load (warehouses, production shops).
3. Thickness of linoleum
The thickness of linoleum affects its durability and comfort during operation:
- Thin linoleum (1.2-1.6 mm) – suitable for rooms with low load, such as a bedroom or living room.
- Medium (2-3 mm) is a universal option suitable for most living spaces, including kitchens and hallways.
- Thick (more than 4 mm) – recommended for rooms with high loads or uneven floors.
4. The main criteria for choosing linoleum
When choosing linoleum, you should pay attention to the following factors:
- Environmental friendliness . Choose linoleum with a minimum amount of chemical additives and quality certificates.
- Moisture resistance . Linoleum must be resistant to moisture, especially if it is planned to be laid in the kitchen or bathroom.
- Sound insulation . For apartments, it is important to choose linoleum that provides a sufficient level of sound insulation so as not to disturb the neighbors below.
- Anti-fire properties . It is especially important for rooms with an increased risk of ignition.
- Ease of care . Choose a coating that is easy to clean and does not require special care products.
5. Advice on laying linoleum
- Preliminary preparation of the floor . Before laying linoleum, make sure that the floor is level, clean and dry. Special self-leveling mixtures can be used for leveling.
- Leave the stock . Always leave a small margin of linoleum (about 10 cm) around the edges for possible shrinkage or warping during installation.
- Laying without seams . For large rooms, it is better to choose wide rolls of linoleum to avoid seams that can be damaged during operation.
- Using a substrate . To improve sound and heat insulation, you can use a special lining for linoleum.
6. Linoleum care
Quality care will significantly extend the service life of linoleum:
- Regular cleaning . Dust and dirt should be regularly removed from the surface with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner.
- Use of special means . To wash linoleum, use special products that do not damage the upper protective layer.
- Protection against mechanical damage . Avoid moving heavy furniture on unlined linoleum surfaces to avoid scratches.
When choosing linoleum, pay attention to the type of coating, wear resistance class, thickness and other key characteristics. The right choice will allow not only to create a cozy interior, but also to ensure the durability of the floor covering for many years. Following the advice of experts and taking into account the specifics of the room, you will be able to choose the ideal version of linoleum for your home.