The emergence of new technologies in the construction industry has made it possible to produce modern materials, which allow you to bring to life the most daring design ideas without losing technical characteristics.

Particular attention must be paid to different types linoleum, because such materials allow you to quickly install a beautiful and high-quality floor covering. In our article we will look at the differences between semi-commercial and household roll materials for floors, let's get acquainted with their main properties and characteristics.

Household linoleum

As the name suggests, household linoleum is intended for installation in various rooms of the apartment. It can be seen on the floor in the hallway, kitchen, living room and even on the balcony. Users have noticed that such products are leaders among floor coverings in terms of cost and practicality.

In addition, you should pay attention to the universal properties of the material, because it can be laid in dry and wet rooms. The surface of such a coating does not attract dust and does not fade under the influence of direct sunlight. Dirt is easily removed from such linoleum.

At correct operation household linoleum can serve its owner for up to 10 years. The material in question has a minimum wear resistance class of 21...23. This means that the surface of such a coating will not be able to withstand point mechanical loads during operation. To increase the service life, it is recommended to purchase household linoleum with a sheet thickness of 3 millimeters or more. In addition, it is not advisable to move heavy furniture on the laid surface.

Characteristics of household linoleum

As we have already said, the type of flooring in question has a strength class from 21 to 23. Next, let’s take a look at other technical characteristics of household linoleum:

• The thickness of the protective layer of the canvases ranges from 0.14 to 0.35 millimeters.
• The total thickness of the material ranges from 2 to 4.5 millimeters. As this indicator increases, the heat and sound insulation qualities of the product improve.
• The quality indicators of household linoleum depend on the type of base. The backing can be foam, polyvinyl chloride or felt.

When choosing linoleum, most consumers pay attention to Special attention per class. As the grade increases, the weight, strength and abrasion resistance of the coating increases.

What is the difference between semi-commercial linoleum and household linoleum?

Many consumers ask the question about the differences between household and semi-commercial linoleum. And indeed, why overpay for flooring if you can buy similar material at the same price, and cheaper. In fact, there are differences and they are quite significant.

The fact is that semi-commercial linoleum has an increased wear resistance class. This product consists of several layers, and the top layer has an increased thickness in the range of 0.3-0.5 millimeters. Thanks to these qualities, this type of linoleum can last up to 17 years.

When choosing a material for use in living rooms, it is recommended to take into account the traffic or loads on the coating. So, in a room for children or in a bedroom, it is better to lay household linoleum. Another type of rolled products is ideal for the kitchen or hallway.

Semi-commercial linoleum

Unlike their household counterpart, the products in question consist of several layers:

• Protective top layer (prevents abrasion of the material during operation). This element is somewhat thicker than that of household linoleum.
• The surface of the product can be plain or imitate any natural material, such as wood structure or stone.
• The next layer is the base, which is used to apply the pattern.
• Fiberglass is used to protect the material from possible deformation.
• Foamed polyvinyl chloride backing.
• The outer side of the linoleum is marked with the manufacturer's logo.

The main area of ​​use for semi-commercial linoleum is laying flooring in office premises. In addition, such products are widely used for laying floors in hospitals, schools and kindergartens. The material is also ideal for use in a private house or apartment.

Thanks to improved technical specifications semi-commercial linoleum weighs a little more than household linoleum. The mass of a square meter is in the range of 2…2.5 kilograms, while the analogue has no more than 1.8 kilograms. The products in question are supplied to hardware stores in rolls 2…4 meters wide.

During operation, the material resists mechanical stress and sudden temperature changes well. The durability of the coating, depending on the type, is 7-20 years. Some types of products have antibacterial properties and are highly resistant to moisture.

When choosing a floor covering, many buyers opt for linoleum, one of the popular flooring materials. It is used almost everywhere and has a lot of advantages. Among the huge variety of products, semi-commercial linoleum is especially in demand, the characteristics of which ensure long-term operation and make the product worthy of purchase.

What it is?

Semi-commercial linoleum is a type of flooring made from polymer materials, occupying an intermediate position between household and commercial class linoleum. It is an option developed by modern industry with the aim of reducing the shortcomings of building materials and increasing their quality technical indicators.

His performance characteristics are not much inferior to the commercial analogue, which is the best in the line of linoleum floor coverings. It has high density, which is formed by fiberglass.

The material has another name - "office", because such linoleum is excellent for places with high traffic, having a structure that is resistant to mechanical damage and abrasion. Another name for it is the meaning of “reinforced household linoleum”.

This is a floor covering widely used in offices, clinics, kindergartens, shops, and public institutions (cafes, salons, restaurants). It is a separate line of linoleum classes, combining the best qualities of household (classical) and commercial analogues. This is a durable coating that is resistant to intensive use, convenient and easy to install.

Advantages

Semi-commercial linoleum – excellent material, which has a number of advantages. In addition to the fact that it is able to hide small cracks and unevenness of the floor, the coating:

• resistant to excessive wear;
• has an antistatic structure;
• not susceptible to rotting and creating an environment for microorganisms;
• unpretentious in care and installation, does not absorb moisture or dirt;
• has a wide range of colors and shades;

• has high sound and thermal insulation properties, absorbing noise and vibration;
• has an affordable price and is available to the general consumer group;
• is an indispensable attribute of creating a cozy home atmosphere;
• recognized as fire-resistant material;
• It has long term service (at least 10-15 years).

This type of flooring is unique in that it fits into any room of the house, be it a bedroom, kitchen, children's room, living room, hallway, corridor. Due to the possibility of applying a clear pattern, it allows you to decorate the floor with a different effect, imitating the surface of tiles, parquet, laminate, plank flooring, a natural stone, marble, etc.

This coating can satisfy various customer needs; it is recognized as a rational use of the budget and is easy to install.

Minuses

Semi-commercial linoleum has several negative nuances, which include:

• synthetic components (not all customers like them, as they can cause allergies);
• increase in cost for square meter with increasing thickness of the protective layer;
• heavy weight of the material (complicates transportation);
• low level of resistance to solvents, alkalis and grease;
• drying out of the material structure under noticeable temperature changes, decreasing elasticity and formation of cracks.

It cannot be called an environmentally friendly material, and some brands do not recommend laying this material in a nursery.

Differences from residential and commercial

Semi-commercial linoleum is the golden mean between household and commercial counterparts. It is better than household and lighter than commercial, while being a worthy option for flooring for a home, cottage, or apartment.

Semi-commercial linoleum has a number of differences from analogues of other classes. It is stronger than household coating, so it is not afraid of sharp heels, chair legs, and furniture casters. This linoleum differs in weight: if you compare a canvas measuring 1 square. m, the weight of a semi-commercial coating will be one and a half times more than a household one and much less than its commercial counterpart.

Other parameters include load resistance and price: semi-commercial coatings are more expensive than household coatings and cheaper than commercial coatings. The service life also differs. Semi-commercial linoleum gets boring and becomes outdated faster than it wears out without losing its attractiveness appearance.

Such a canvas can be distinguished externally: it has a protective layer thickness of 0.3 to 0.6 mm (the difference is visible if you look at the side cut of the canvas).

Kinds

The lineup semi-commercial linoleum is varied. Trademarks offered for sale different variants, able to satisfy any customer preferences. The most popular types of floor coverings include:

• antistatic;
• fire protection;
• insulated;
• with 3D effect;
• with anti-slip protection.

Based on the type of base, the material is divided into two types:

• on felt base;
• on a foam basis.

Each type has its own characteristics and is designed for a specific type of room. Semi-commercial flooring is divided into two types: heterogeneous (multilayer) and homogeneous type.

A heterogeneous class of material consists of several components:

• protective, protecting the coating from abrasion;
• finishing, giving the coating an original pattern;
• the basis for the drawing, thanks to which the pattern is held;
• fiberglass, eliminating deformation and increasing strength;
• foam base necessary for heat and sound insulation;
• a layer of marking indicating affiliation with a specific brand.

The homogeneous class of semi-commercial linoleum is distinguished by the presence of a single layer with a uniform structure. In addition, the material is characterized by a relatively large weight compared to its heterogeneous counterpart. The disadvantage of coverage is not so much attractive appearance, as in heterogeneous: its aesthetic characteristics leave much to be desired. It also does not have a protective layer, which is a significant disadvantage.

Wear resistance class

For ease of selection, semi-commercial linoleum is marked with a wear resistance class that explains its purpose. This allows you to buy exactly what you need by investing your money correctly. The classification includes 4 digits (32, 33, 34, 41). The first number indicates the type of room:

• 2 – residential;
• 3 – office;
• 4 – production.

The second (substituted number) explains the load on the surface:

• 1 – low;
• 2 – average;
• 3 – above average;
• 4 – high.

Based on the above, it turns out:

• 32 – semi-commercial for utility room, closet;
• 33 – option for a store, office, corridor;
• 34 is an excellent material for home and high traffic areas;
• 41 is a variety for homes with light traffic and average use.

For greater convenience, brands offer a visual classification system, placing intuitive pictograms along with numbers.

Dimensions

Due to the fact that there is no specific GOST for this type of product, manufacturing companies have developed their own parameters-standards, which make it possible to determine that this material belongs to the semi-commercial class of floor coverings.

Standard indicators characterizing the canvas include:

• total thickness of linoleum, ranging from 2 to 4.5 cm;
• thickness of the protective layer (polyurethane top), varying from 0.3 to 0.6 mm;
• weight per square meter, equal to 2 to 5 kg;
• canvas width ranging from 1.5 to 4 and 5 meters;
• abrasion, having an indicator of 10 - 15 g/sq. m.

How to choose?

Choosing semi-commercial linoleum can seem like a daunting task. In fact, everything is simple and clear:

• color and pattern are selected individually, based on your own preferences;
• the size of the canvas should correspond to the area of ​​the room (preferably a single solid sheet);
• if the humidity of the room is high (balcony, kitchen, bathroom), you should give preference to a coating with a polyvinyl chloride base; the felt option is good for “dry” rooms;
• Saving on canvas with a pattern is unacceptable; it is important to take into account its direction and size, otherwise it can be ruined general form interior;

• the greater the thickness of the protective layer, the better the resistance to mechanical damage and the greater the durability;
• compatibility of the coating with the “warm floor” system is welcome;
• composition and appearance matter: linoleum with high level color stability and the addition of antibacterial components;
• the price of the issue depends on the degree of rigidity of the lower layer: the less porosity of the structure, the higher the cost.

When purchasing, you should pay attention to a material with medium thickness and a thick protective layer. Canvases 3-4 mm can be ignored: all the unevenness of the floor will be visible through the bottom.

Choosing flooring for an apartment or country house, it is better to proceed from practical considerations: White color will lose its attractive appearance quite quickly. You should not decorate the kitchen or hallway (high traffic areas) with it.

Laying

The procedure for laying semi-commercial linoleum is no different from the standard one. Anyone can handle it if they want. It is simple and includes several steps:

• preparation of the base;
• preparation of linoleum;
• taking measurements;
• adjusting the coating to the required measurements;
• docking;
• sealing joints.

Each master has his own principle of work. However, there are general rules. Laying is carried out on a dry and level base. If unevenness, cracks or remnants of old linoleum are visible on the floor, remove them and level the surface.

Linoleum can be laid on:

• old linoleum;
• plywood;
• concrete floor.

Each method has its own subtleties. While it is quite easy to level a concrete floor, when laying it on a wooden floor, you cannot do without a layer of plywood. If the humidity in the house is high, fiberboard is not suitable, since it will gradually change its structure and rise upward in waves, and no manipulation will save the floor from being re-laid. The option with old linoleum is convenient because it is in this case will level the floor, acting as an additional substrate.

Measurements are carried out based on the maximum length and width of the floor of a particular room, taking into account doorways and features of the area. A small allowance is added to the measurements obtained (for the curvature of the walls and the joint of the covering).

The adjustment is carried out taking into account the direction of the pattern: the linoleum is laid with the print facing up and adjusted to the characteristics of the floor, cutting off all excess along the perimeter with a knife. If the walls are smooth, it is enough to leave 0.5 cm at the edges.

If the canvas is not solid (for example, laying in a corridor), you cannot do without joining the pattern (provided that the linoleum pattern is the same in different rooms). Both layers are overlapped, matching the pattern, then cut with a knife, precisely removing the excess of two layers at the same time. Seam sealing ( cold welding) is performed with special glue with a sharp tip. It is important to ensure that the glue does not get under the seams: this can lead to unevenness in the seam and cause it to fail.

Masters believe that in cases where the area of ​​the room exceeds 20 square meters. m, it is better to glue linoleum to the base. The process involves applying a special solution and pressing the linoleum surface with heavy furniture.

When laying it is worth taking note: if the covering has a felt base, you do not need to lay the backing. If the base is made of foam, you cannot do without a backing.

How long should you rest?

A feature of semi-commercial linoleum is the need for preliminary preparation. It cannot be laid immediately: it is important that it rests for at least 2–4 days in a horizontal position without bends or creases. This time will be enough for the surface of the coating to level, take the desired shape and not make installation difficult.

Linoleum has been known for a very long time, but its semi-commercial variety is still poorly known to Russian consumers. And at the same time, it deserves serious attention and allows you to decorate floors beautifully and elegantly. You just need to carefully select the material, taking into account its characteristics and individual varieties.

What it is?

Semi-commercial linoleum is a cross between the commercial and household categories of this finishing material. Compared to the first, it turns out to be lighter and more convenient to install, and it is superior to the second in strength and resistance to various mechanical influences. The width of the canvas is 200 centimeters, it easily tolerates strong heat, and almost does not suffer from open fire.

Even if you put a heavy cabinet, refrigerator or gas stove, you don't risk creasing it.

It is not surprising that such a coating, under normal conditions of use, retains its qualities for fifteen years or more.

Some companies are trying to get ahead of competitors by producing non-slip coatings, taking care of protection from fading in the sun and increasing resistance to water ingress. It will not be a problem to find semi-commercial linoleum impregnated against pathological fungi and bacteria (it is compatible with floor heating systems).

Advantages and disadvantages

Hardness of semi-commercial linoleum, relative to low price for its synthetic variety and excellent insulation and sound insulation performance - undoubted advantages. Consumers will enjoy easy styling and simple aftercare. There are no downsides as such, except for the obvious artificiality of the available material.

There is no particular point in paying for natural semi-commercial linoleum; for a comparable amount they will sell you natural stone, and cork, and mahogany.

Characteristics and dimensions

The thickness of linoleum is considered small if it is less than one and a half millimeters. If it exceeds this indicator, the material is classified as thick-layer.

The second type is preferable; it can be placed (provided the base is well prepared) anywhere. The front layer, reinforced in comparison with household options (it is thickened to 0.35-0.5 millimeters) can last at least a decade and a half.

Therefore, products of any brand in the semi-commercial segment are distinguished not only by increased weight, but also by a noticeable increase in cost. For each square meter you will have to pay an additional few hundred rubles.

For your information: linoleum performs best when laid as a single piece, without cutting or welding the pieces. It is more airtight and even if liquid spills, it will not fall down and will not cause swelling of the coating or rotting of the substrate.

Therefore, the width should be taken with a margin; its size should exceed the dimensions of the room. If the width of the room being renovated is 2 meters, then add 50 cm, and for a hall 4 meters wide you can buy 5 meters. Rolls most often reach 20-30 meters in length.

Any linoleum invariably belongs to one or another wear resistance class.

A feature of the semi-commercial coating is that its minimum strength category is 32. This is how versions for ordinary apartments and offices of small organizations.

If your premises are visited by a lot of people, you need to take coverage of class 33, and if the flow of visitors is very large - no lower than class 34. If there are machine tools in the building and loaders are constantly running, you will have to pay for the 41st strength category.

The mass of a square meter varies from 2.5 to 4 kilograms.

How is it different from residential and commercial?

Linoleum is classified, first of all, by the thickness of the protective layer, which determines its resistance to mechanical load. The commercial type is the strongest and can be used even on a factory floor or large scale. mall where a lot of people are constantly moving. The household version is soft, suitable mainly for bedrooms and living rooms. That is, for those parts of the house (apartment) where people do not walk very actively.

The difference between household and semi-commercial linoleum is that the latter can be used in kitchens and other rooms with limited floor load.

Any semi-commercial linoleum is based on foamed polyvinyl chloride (unlike household linoleum, in which fabric can also be used). The substrate is responsible for holding the layers together and gives rigidity to the entire structure. Next comes the decorative layer, which uses single-color or brightly interspersed paintings.

It is also possible to imitate other finishing materials (log house, boards, masonry). The thickness of the protective surface is 0.4-0.6 millimeters (which is more than usual).

Installation of flooring of all three main types is carried out in the same way:

• The subfloor should be made perfectly flat - the slightest defect will immediately affect the outer layer and not only spoil the mood, but also shorten the service life of the linoleum. For this purpose, the old coating must be dismantled, and the new one is laid on plywood, plasterboard or chipboards.

• The surface to be finished needs to be measured and any of its features taken into account. Having discovered unevenness in the walls, it is better to buy coatings in excess; a few centimeters on all sides will cost little, and will save a lot of time and nerves.
• Trimming after adjusting the patterns is carried out along a ruler with a sharply sharpened knife. Smooth joints are obtained using a simple technique - the linoleum is laid overlapping and the intended border is carefully cut to the base, then the cut points are connected by cold welding.

Varieties

Synthetic coatings divided by the number of layers. The multilayer version, also heterogeneous, includes a fiberglass mesh, which gives increased strength and becomes a reliable guarantee against deformation. Thanks to the presence of glass, good heat retention and damping of extraneous sounds is ensured. The last point is very important in any apartment located on floors above the first.

Linoleum with a foam backing is extremely popular because:

• it is easy to dock;
• you can make the seam almost invisible;
• The base of the coating is waterproof.

Like all other varieties, this one fits well only on an extremely flat or specially prepared floor. Semi-commercial felt-based linoleum, like fabric-based linoleum, can be glued to any surface. But remember, only cold welding and soldering will help you assemble the canvases into a single composition. The textile base will be damaged if water gets in, however, which is very good, it will not require any additional support.

Semi-commercial linoleum is quite rare, but more often than household linoleum.

Colors

Linoleum imitating parquet has been in increasing demand over the past few years. In the line of any self-respecting manufacturer there will be imitations of both ordinary species (cherry, beech, oak) and exotic ones:

• rosewood;
• zebrano;
• bamboo

Modern technologies They allow you to reproduce both texture and external patterns, solid wood boards and even mosaics on wood. By choosing an unusual color, you will demonstrate to others your originality and ability to experiment. Tile-like linoleum can have a different aesthetic effect: for example, small patterns can add sophistication and charm to the room. Large ornaments are designed to visually expand the walls, and they can be used to add chic to the decor if the texture is glossy or matte.

A caveat: shiny surfaces are very difficult to maintain in their original condition, so matte tones are more practical.

White linoleum may well be a good solution in the bathroom (where it can imitate the look tiles), it would be a good idea to use it in the hallway as well. If the room is light, it is advisable to make the flooring darker to increase the space.

Keep in mind that the combination of dark floors and ceilings makes the room appear heavier and lower. Never use dark floors in combination with dark walls and a snow-white ceiling - the impression will be like a basement.

You cannot decorate the floor, ceiling and walls with the same color; it is uncomfortable to be in such a room; it turns out to be faceless and unmemorable. The 3D effect can be very attractive, but it also needs to be used skillfully.

Lively and original images marine theme are quite appropriate in bathrooms, but in other parts of the house they can only be recommended to adherents of this style.

A great opportunity to emphasize your craving for nature will be pictures with animals and birds. Or you can simply choose the option with a “green lawn”; this plot is emotionally pleasant and does not get boring for a long time.

Linoleum under laminate is good way demonstrate your aesthetic taste and reproduce the appearance of a more advanced coating. A serious advantage over real laminate is that there will be no joints and installation of the imitation is much simpler than real laminate.

A serious and respectable atmosphere is brought into the house by the colors of ash, oak, and mahogany; reproduction of cherry, teak texture and coloring is appropriate in a retro setting.

Manufacturers

Popular manufacturing companies:

• Any manufacturer, including Belgian ones, adds additives to semi-commercial linoleum for maximum wear resistance. World famous company Tarkett, acting as a “trendsetter” in the field of floor coverings, is constantly working on protective layers. They try to make them as functional as possible and at the same time relatively thin in order to lighten the linoleum produced.
• French corporation Gerflor has been creating and producing original floor coverings for many decades. At the same time, the delights never deviate in any way from the established quality standards. Samples of finished products are tested and tested according to the most stringent requirements.

• Hungarian concern Grabo uses fiberglass, which maximizes service life and makes the material more stable. It perfectly resists any deformation, dampens extraneous noise and retains heat. The optimal balance of layers is achieved through calendered polyvinyl chloride.
• Slovenian company Juteks began its activities several decades ago and now stands out not only for its vast experience, but also for its active use of the latest developments. Its products are selling well even in Australia. Due to special treatment, the coating perfectly resists moisture, intense sunlight, does not get dirty and is easy to clean.
• Transnational company Armstrong is the largest manufacturer of linoleum on the planet, it is known for the excellent strength and wear resistance of each sample of its products. For Russia, the advantages of its products such as heat conservation and sound insulation are especially significant.

Semi-commercial products for the kitchen and for any other room are selected according to the design of the foundation layer and protective layer. It is these layers that determine how well the coating will cope with the opening tasks. If the goal is to ensure the longest possible service life and high tolerance to mechanical loads, give priority to the protective strip. But to combat freezing and noise, a powerful substrate is more important.

It is very difficult for a non-specialist in linoleum materials to understand the differences, even with the help of professional consultants. Manufacturers offer it in a huge range, for different conditions operation. Let's try to explain it clearly.

A little history of linoleum

The distant ancestor of modern rolled and tiled flooring can be considered oiled sheets of dense fabric, which were used not only for sails, but also for laying on the floor. In 1763, Englishman Nathan Smith patented a material that consisted of woven panels coated with a hot mixture of pine resin, brown dye, beeswax and linseed oil - camptulicon. The new flooring was not particularly popular among buyers, but the manufacturer continued to experiment and look for optimal combinations.

In 1843, natural rubber and ground cork were introduced into the composition of the future linoleum, but due to a serious increase in the price of ingredients (due to the invention of car tires), the composition was processed and modified linseed oil - drying oil - was introduced. The technology for producing the finished product was also improved, and on December 19, 1863, Frederick Walton received a patent for the production of linoleum (linum - flax and oleum - oil). In subsequent years, the recipe, as well as the manufacturing method, was refined. At the beginning of the 20th century, Walton, Taylor and Co. (Great Britain) supplied the European market with flooring made from a mixture of several vegetable oils(modified) called glyphthalic linoleum. Factories also produced the same product Russian Empire located in Riga, Odessa and other cities.

Today this product is produced by the largest factories in the world - Forbo, Tarkett and others. In Europe, it retained its old name - natural linoleum. In our country it is known by the name of the registered trademark of the Forbo Flooring Systems company - marmoleum or marmoleum.

Table 1. Advantages and disadvantages of marmoleum

On the territory of our country since the mid-50s. last century, due to the scarcity of natural raw materials, a new product was developed - PVC linoleum. Although the composition of this floor covering had nothing in common with natural material, however, its name was retained.

table 2. Features of PVC linoleum

Synthetic linoleum is produced homogeneous (high-density with a uniform structure) and heterogeneous (multilayer).

The second type consists of:

Large factories add additional layers to the linoleum structure. This could be fiberglass for reinforcement, sealing layers for the backside that prevent water absorption, etc.

To summarize: now on sale you can find linoleum products manufactured in the following formats:

IN living conditions, as well as for retail, commercial and public facilities, the first two types are used. But where and what exactly - read below.

Types of linoleum and their differences

Linoleum products, both rolled and cut, are classified according to such criteria as load level and scope of application. Both parameters depend on the strength and thickness of the top layer, as well as the overall density and resistance to deformation. Let's look at it in order.

According to the area of ​​use, natural and PVC linoleum is divided into 4 basic types:

Domestic

This is the most popular series, used exclusively for living rooms, as well as rooms with low traffic (storages, outbuildings). Available as a heterogeneous coating based on:

• foamed PVC
• polyester felt
• combined

The thickness of household linoleum varies from 1.5 to 4 mm. The top layer – transparency – is formed from flexible polyurethane. Some manufacturers add special layers that provide bactericidal properties of the surface, strengthen it, etc.

Household linoleum has the largest range of designs, from traditional herringbone parquet to bright children's or avant-garde decors. Installation is recommended to be carried out using adhesive compositions, but it is also possible using double-sided tape or fixing it with baseboards. Service life – from 7 to 12 years.

Occasionally you can find so-called baseless linoleum coverings up to about 1.5 mm thick, produced by small domestic factories. Such flooring materials are quite soft, cheap and short-lived.

Semi-commercial

This series is a cross between household and commercial products. The difference is that it has a more dense (calender) structure compared to the first one, the protective layer is stronger and thicker.

The coatings in this series are heterogeneous with a base made of foamed PVC or polyester fiber. Areas of use: offices, office premises, small shops, etc. Often, buyers buy them for the home - in the kitchen, hallway, corridors, that is, places with the highest foot traffic. The cost is comparable to the price of expensive collections of household linoleum. Service life – up to 15 years.

Commercial heterogeneous and homogeneous

Products with a high level of resistance to abrasion and deformation loads. Produced for installation in industrial, warehouse, sanatorium, medical, educational, trade and commercial facilities. Often used in exhibition and conference rooms, restaurants, shops, hotels and other similar premises.

Unlike the household series, commercial and semi-commercial linoleum cannot boast of a chic set of decors. Expensive products are produced only in the most popular designs: broadband boards, granite or marble chips, as well as plain ones.

The price of the product is high, installation requires special equipment, but the service life is appropriate. Commercial linoleum will last at least 20 years even in the most difficult conditions.

Specialized

A series of coatings characterized by extremely high resistance to any load:

• Sports (for sports and dance halls with resistance to both abrasion and vertical deformation, sliding, etc.;
• Antistatic or current dissipative;
• Acoustic or soundproofing (with suppression effect);
• For wet areas (fully waterproof);
• Wall-mounted (wear resistance combined with exceptional resistance to aggressive chemicals, including disinfectants, etc.);
• For transport and others.

The total thickness of linoleum can reach 10 mm, and the service life starts from 20 years or more.

Which to choose

In accordance with EN 685, each linoleum product, based on test results, must be assigned a certain wear resistance class, characterizing the level of loads withstood.

Thus, household series belong to classes 21-23 and 31, semi-commercial linoleum corresponds to classes 31-33, and commercial linoleum corresponds to classes 32-34 and 41-42. Special is classified as group 4, that is, categories 41-43. Complete information is usually available in catalogs, which every seller should have with him. On the reverse side, manufacturers indicate not the product class, but various characteristics: presence of additional layers, service life, moisture or light resistance, etc.

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Many home craftsmen are wondering what is better to use: household or semi-commercial linoleum. Some believe that a household one is quite enough for the home, while others are confident that only a semi-commercial one will cope with the load and serve its entire intended life. We decided to tell you about the features of these two types of flooring to help you with your choice and put an end to this issue.

In recent years, many floor coverings have appeared, but classic linoleum does not go out of fashion. This is due to its practicality, good characteristics, ease of installation and maintenance, as well as a huge range - you can choose any option for your room and fit it perfectly into the interior.

Household linoleum is perfect for the bedroom and living room

Advantages of linoleum:

1. Versatility. Suitable for any room: bedroom, kitchen, hallway, living room.
2. Good wear resistance. High-quality linoleum can last 10-12 years without losing its appearance and properties.
3. Possibility of use in dry and damp rooms.
4. Affordable price.
5. Easy to install and maintain.
6. It practically does not fade in the sun, does not absorb dirt, and has antistatic properties.
7. Good heat and sound insulation properties.

Modern household linoleum absolutely harmless to health - it can be placed in kindergartens and rooms. Various textures, a huge range of patterns and colors contribute to the popularization of this type of coating: it goes well with various styles and interiors.

Scope of use

Household linoleum is used at home: in apartments, private houses, cottages. It is great for rooms with low level mechanical load, but at the same time not afraid of pressure and abrasion. Household options are labeled according to the same principle as laminate: the material comes in classes 21, 22 and 23. Average service life quality linoleum 10-12 years(subject to manufacturer's recommendations).

To extend its service life, try not to move heavy objects on it, use special underlays for furniture, do not use abrasive detergents, and avoid exposing the material to ash or sparks. Don't skimp when purchasing - standard thickness linoleum should be 3 -4 mm (base + decorative layer + protective layer).

Types of linoleum

Classic linoleum consists of three layers:

1. Base (serves to level the surface and effectively distribute loads).
2. A load-bearing decorative layer on which a pattern is applied.
3. Protective film made of polyurethane, which prevents the material from wearing out and being wiped off when walking.

Semi-commercial linoleum is best used in the hallway or kitchen

There are two types of household linoleum:

• baseless thin layer (up to 1.5 mm thickness);
• thick-layer (3-4 mm).

As a rule, the thicker the material, the longer the coating lasts and the less wear it wears off. Also, thick-layer linoleum retains heat much better and protects the room from extraneous sounds. We recommend that you use only the second option. Baseless wipes off very quickly - to install it you only need a perfectly even coating. It should not be laid in places where people often walk - it is suitable for rooms with low traffic. For a thick-walled one, any more or less even base with dents and bumps up to 1-2 mm is suitable. Before laying, thoroughly vacuum the surface to remove dust. If the base is not very smooth, then you can use a linoleum lining (foamed polyethylene or cork).

Semi-commercial

This type The coating is intended for use in rooms with medium load. It is available on a jute or foam base. Technical characteristics of semi-commercial linoleum higher than that of a household one - it has a greater thickness and a higher quality PVC layer. The average service life of such linoleum is 7-10 years in walkable areas. In everyday life, it can last 15 years, but usually it is thrown away earlier, because it simply becomes obsolete.

Jute covering

Jute is a natural material very similar to felt. On top it is covered with a thin film of polyvinyl chloride, which protects it from abrasion and rotting. This is an excellent choice for living rooms: the jute covering is soft, resilient, and elastic. It retains heat well and blocks extraneous sounds. Perfect for a living room, bedroom, children's room - you can walk barefoot on the surface even in winter. But such linoleum does not tolerate very well high humidity. The manufacturer does not recommend installing it in the kitchen, bathroom or toilet.

Semi-commercial linoleum can be easily glued along the seam

The jute covering is laid on a perfectly flat surface - any changes in height and sharp protrusions will quickly lead to wear of the bottom layer.

note: Jute covering is not as practical as foam-based linoleum. It needs to be properly cared for and not subjected to serious stress.

The main advantages of jute-based coatings are good environmental friendliness, low price and ease of use. The material is pleasant to walk on - it bends slightly and is springy. Special care does not require. Make sure that it is not constantly exposed to direct sunlight and that abrasive substances are not used when washing.

Foam coating

This type of linoleum is characterized by increased wear resistance and good quality. It consists of several layers of foamed polyvinyl chloride and can withstand heavy loads. Often has a fiberglass reinforcing layer that prevents it from stretching and tearing. The top layer protects the design from rubbing and fading. Foam-based linoleum is much more practical and stronger than jute. Its advantages:

1. Excellent wear resistance. Withstands heavy traffic, is not afraid of the claws of aggressive animals detergents, high loads.
2. Huge range of designs and colors. This type of coating can be produced with different surface textures: imitation stone, wooden planks, metal, etc.
3. Not afraid of moisture. The coating can even be used in a bathhouse - it will not melt from high temperature and will not begin to rot.

Note:The textured surface makes the floor beautiful, but complicates the cleaning process. It is not recommended to use ribbed linoleum in the kitchen or hallway - it will not be easy to clean.

Semi-commercial linoleum is suitable for offices, restaurants and walk-through spaces

Features of semi-commercial coating

You should know that semi-commercial linoleum is much more expensive than household linoleum - the difference in price can be 30-50 percent, so think about whether it makes sense to overpay. It is also worth noting the considerable weight of this coating - at least 2.5 kg per square meter. The base of the semi-commercial coating is made of polyvinyl chloride, resistant to moisture and temperature changes. There is no need to be afraid that it will burst or break through - usually the base is reinforced with fiberglass. Another advantage of this solution is that linoleum does not change its shape when the temperature changes. It is usually produced in rolls of 2 to 4 meters - this is enough to cover 90% of the rooms. If necessary, linoleum can be glued with a special soldering iron or glue - the procedure does not take much time, and the seam becomes almost invisible.

Differences

So, what are the differences between household and semi-commercial linoleum? ? The main factor is load resistance. Professional builders do not recommend overpaying and buying semi-commercial options for the entire house or apartment. You are guaranteed not to wear out the household linoleum in the bedroom or living room even in 10 years, and then simply change it because it becomes obsolete. Semi-commercial options are well suited for walk-through spaces: corridors, hallways, kitchens. They serve well in offices and small shops. You can also lay a commercial version in a children's room - the load on the floor there is quite high. If you are considering buying a semi-commercial coating just to insulate the floor and create sound insulation, then it is better to purchase a regular household version and lay a lining under it, just like for a laminate. It will cost you less and the results will be better.