Differences between homogeneous and heterogeneous linoleum

Linoleum is one of the most common floor coverings. It is used both for houses and apartments, and for public buildings. There are several classes of this coverage, and classes are divided into varieties. Therefore, first you need to pay attention to the technical characteristics, class and type of coating, and only then to the design.

Types of linoleum

Among the main classes of linoleum we distinguish:

  • household: suitable for laying in apartments and houses, that is, in residential premises;
  • commercial: used for premises with increased load, that is, offices, clinics, schools, etc .;
  • special: applicable in conditions of very heavy load, for gyms, some technical rooms, etc.

If you are planning an office renovation, the best choice would be a commercial look. However, it can also be used for a residential building. Its operational properties are much higher than domestic, and it will last longer.

On a note! In the apartment, it is quite possible to lay commercial linoleum.

Commercial, in turn, is divided into homogeneous and heterogeneous. To find out how they differ, as well as calculate the benefits, you need to consider the technical characteristics of each.

What is homogeneous linoleum

Homogeneous (homo - one) linoleum is a single-layer coating. It consists of durable polyvinyl chloride without the addition of other substances. It has only an additional protective layer of flexible polyurethane.

The pattern in such linoleum is applied to the entire thickness of the surface. This contributes to low abrasion, as well as the possibility of restoration by grinding. There are classes 32-34 and 41-43 in production. That is, it can withstand heavy loads and is not intended for domestic use.

Characteristics of heterogeneous linoleum

Heterogeneous (hetero - many) linoleum is a multilayer coating. Let's start from the bottom.

  1. The first layer is the substrate. It is made of foamed polyvinyl chloride and may also consist of jute or felt. In production, it is applied last, after the remaining layers have undergone heat treatment.
  2. The second layer is the base. Consists of fiberglass. It, in turn, is impregnated with PVC paste, which is then retained in the pores of the fiberglass and is responsible for the wear resistance of the material.
  3. Another layer of foamed PVC is applied to fiberglass, which is also impregnated with paste.
  4. This is followed by a layer with a decorative pattern. It is very thin and is applied to a layer of foamed PVC.
  5. The final layer is working. Consists of pure polyvinyl chloride. He is responsible for the protection of the pattern, has a high wear resistance.

During production, all layers (except the substrate) undergo heat treatment during which the evaporation of harmful substances occurs, and the relief of the pattern is also formed.

The main differences between the two types

After studying the production technology and the main characteristics of both types, we can proceed to comparing these materials. This will help you choose the best option, and navigate when buying.

Important! When buying, ask for a quality certificate.

The technical characteristics are primarily affected by the production method and composition of the material. Based on the foregoing, we can compare the differences in characteristics.

  • The operational properties of homogeneous linoleum are higher. It can last up to 25 years with proper care and maintenance, as well as regular polishing.
  • The environmental friendliness of the two species is also different. Homogeneous material is safer, as it consists only of PVC, and various chemical additives are used to create heterogeneous linoleum.
  • The thickness of the material is homogeneously less - 1.5 -3 mm, while the sum of the heterogeneous layers is 4-6 mm.
  • The wear resistance of homogeneous linoleum is higher. It is available in classes designed for rooms with increased load. It also contributes to its less abrasion.
  • Heterogeneous linoleum has the property of depreciation, a homogeneous one does not.
  • The single layer type has a smaller design choice.
  • Heterogeneous provides an opportunity to choose a cut of the required length, while the other type is sold mainly in rolls. It also provides a wider choice of widths.

As a result, we can say that the main differences between the considered types of linoleum are in the production method, composition and operational properties.

Watch the video: Armstrong Sheet Vinyl Flooring Installation and Maintenance Guidelines (March 2024).

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