The most popular flooring is linoleum. It was created more than a hundred years ago and every year it becomes more and more perfect. Linoleum has come a long way - from tarred fabric to a coating that is resistant to household and industrial influences. Its average service life is at least 10-15 years.

Homogeneous linoleum, which, by its characteristics, turned out to be an ideal option for high traffic premises, commercial facilities and children's educational institutions, said a new word in flooring.

What it is?

Homogeneous is a homogeneous linoleum. It got its name because its structure is uniform throughout its thickness. It does not have layers, as it is heterogeneous, so the drawing is uniform and cannot be erased. That is why it is in particular demand in children's playrooms, hospitals, schools and other areas where floors are subject to high abrasion stress.

Judging from the point of view of operational characteristics, then we can say that this type of linoleum is eternal. The pattern of a homogeneous coating does not lose its appearance, a decrease in thickness in certain places (pushing through furniture legs, abrasion near doors, etc.) can be easily corrected by building up the coating even at home.

An important point is the absence of joints between the canvases, since the coating is soldered using a special welding for linoleum. Dirt and debris do not get between the joints, bumps and folds do not form.

Peculiarities

Homogeneous linoleum consists of:

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride);
• plasticizers to give it special elasticity and springiness;
• dolomite (a mineral that not only significantly increases the refractory characteristics of the coating, but also has a destructive effect on insects with a chitinous cover);
• chalk and lime;
• quartz sand (to give the coating resistance to abrasion and chemical attack, as well as giving the coating a soft shade).

To give the coating even more strength, a layer of polyurethane and polyacrylic is applied on top of it. This is the only layer that is not embedded in the structure of linoleum, so it tends to wipe off. To restore it, special-purpose compounds are used. It is possible to use linoleum without them.

There is also a natural homogeneous linoleum, which is made from jute, linseed oil, resin, wood flour. Natural materials make up 99% of this linoleum.

A feature of the material of which this coating consists is the possibility of its restoration during operation. This is done with a grinder.

Views

Homogeneous linoleum is divided into subspecies according to the presence or absence of a base, according to thickness and class of wear resistance.

Linoleum based on fiberglass or polyurethane foam is softer and warmer. Fiberglass, used for the production of a homogeneous coating, contains stone chips, metal dust and plastic granules. This linoleum is almost impossible to tear, push through. Polyurethane affects softness.

The main difference between reinforced linoleum is the price, this option will cost twice as much as usual.

The wear resistance of this coating is in the class of commercial linoleum: 33-34, 41, 42-43 units. Thus, any coating of this type is suitable for home use.

Each linoleum is labeled with letters that indicate the potential degree of wear and tear:

• T (the highest category of wear resistance);
• P (average);
• M (low);
• F (minimum).

Some types of linoleum are marked with resistance to fading (pictogram sun) and the formation of antistatic electricity (pictogram lightning).

Two types of homogeneous linoleum differ in thickness: 1.5-2 mm and 2-3 mm. The thicker the linoleum, the more elastic it is.

How is it different from heterogeneous?

The differences between homogeneous linoleum and heterogeneous linoleum lie in the very method of making the coating:

• the main difference is that homogeneous linoleum is homogeneous (1 layer), heterogeneous consists of 4-5 layers;
• a pattern on a homogeneous linoleum is applied throughout its entire thickness, on a heterogeneous one it is located on a paint layer;
• the service life of a homogeneous material is at least 25 years, a heterogeneous material - 10-15 years;
• the homogeneous coating is completely resistant to fire due to the presence of quartz sand and dolomite in the structure, the heterogeneous coating melts when exposed to fire;

• homogeneous linoleum is not wider than 2 meters, heterogeneous linoleum can be up to 5 meters wide;
• a homogeneous coating allows flooring with an overlap on the walls, a heterogeneous coating does not;
• homogeneous linoleum should not be rolled into a too tight roll;
• a single-layer coating is easier to cut and it is easier to create complex patterns from it, including mosaic patterns. The multi-layer coating allows you to create combinations of large pieces.

How to choose?

When choosing, pay attention to quality certificates and compliance with GOST standards. Little-known companies are changing the proportional composition of the coating, adding more lime and even kaolin there, reducing the percentage of the most important component - polyvinyl chloride. This reduces the cost of the product and its strength. With prolonged use in places of high traffic, whitish spots begin to appear (lime appears).

To avoid buying a low-quality product, you need to familiarize yourself with the average price for this coating in advance, and conduct a simple bending test in the store. If at the place of the fold you see a white stripe, it means that the linoleum does not meet the standards. A break at the fold indicates a large amount of lime, much more than is required by quality standards.

If you need household homogeneous linoleum, then choose the 33-34 class, its characteristics are great for a house and an apartment.

Styling

The most important part when laying a homogeneous floor covering is leveling the floor. This linoleum is very sensitive to a flat surface, it is so soft and pliable that it fills all the recesses in the floor very well. Of course, its performance will not decrease much, but the aesthetic appearance will suffer. The slightest unevenness will be visible on such a floor.

Homogeneous linoleum is put on glue (preferably from the same manufacturer as the coating itself). The consumption of glue depends on the base - if it absorbs liquids well, then at least 1 liter of glue is required per 4 square meters of the room. If the substrate does not absorb so well, then 1 liter per 6 square meters.

First, the coating goes through all the stages as ordinary linoleum: keeping rolled up indoors for a day, then the same amount of time unfolded. The edges of the linoleum are trimmed near the walls or wound onto it. The institution on the walls is used in educational institutions so that children do not stain the lower part of the wall. For this method of installation, a fluted skirting board is used. It has a sloping ramp at the base of the wall, which prevents the linoleum from pushing through. The skirting board, which holds the covering at its edge, is attached to the wall at a height of 10-15 cm.

If the covering on the walls does not start, then it is cut off at a distance of 0.5 cm from the junction of the wall and the floor. If for some reason it is impossible to remove the skirting boards, then the linoleum fits into the joint with the skirting board.

If you are laying homogeneous linoleum at home in a small room and you will not have joints, then you can use double-sided tape to fix it.

Applying glue at home is carried out with a notched trowel under the edges of the linoleum, which are folded back by half its width. After one part of the canvas is glued, the air bubbles are dispersed from the center to the edges, the second part of the canvas is glued.

Since homogeneous linoleum is no more than 2 meters wide, joints cannot be avoided. For a perfect fit, an overlap of 2-3 cm is required on the first canvas. The joints are additionally cold-welded or (in commercial establishments) hot-welded.

After installation, be sure to tap the entire floor surface with a mallet. If there is a dull sound in some place, air has accumulated there. It can be removed by extrusion to the edge (joint) or pierced with an awl.

Joints are processed no earlier than two days after installation. Using a construction knife and a ruler, a cut is made in the linoleum edge. If it was not possible to cut two blades at the same time, then cut the second blade exactly along the line left by the knife.

Glue the joint with masking tape, rolling it tightly with a rubber roller so that there are no air bubbles. Cut the tape at the seam with a round-bladed knife, insert the needle of the cold-weld tube deep into the seam and slide it along the seam, gently squeezing out the adhesive. An indicator that you are doing everything right is a 5 mm layer of welding on the surface of the masking tape. This means that the required amount of glue is present in the seam. The tape is removed at an acute angle after 30 minutes.

Hot welding is carried out using a machine and a special cord. For this, the distance between the canvases must be such that the welding cord passes there. After the cord is installed, its protruding part is cut off with a knife, and the surface is heated by the device. The joint becomes invisible.

Linoleum - the durability of this flooring has already become legendary, because not every material is able to withstand such loads that linoleum, which is used to lay the floors in many supermarkets, offices and similar premises. Unsurprisingly, his popularity hasn't diminished. Even though the flooring market is simply satiated with a variety of products.

In addition, this coating is constantly being improved, new types are being developed, and performance characteristics are being optimized.

What is homogeneous linoleum?

Homogeneous linoleum is a one-piece uniform layer with uniform color throughout the entire thickness of the coating

Material composition

The basis of homogeneous linoleum is polyvinyl chloride, which is filled with various components during the manufacturing process:

• chalk;
• dolomite;
• lime;
• plasticizers;
• pigments;
• quartz sand.

Production technology

The main difference between a homogeneous material and a heterogeneous one is that a homogeneous structure is formed during its production (regardless of thickness), while in the second version a 4-layer coating is created.

As for the pattern on such linoleum, when it is applied, the thickness of the material is completely penetrated. This leads to the fact that as the linoleum wears out, the pattern remains almost intact. The pattern can be applied in two ways:

1. Directional - applied along;
2. Chaotic.

The practical advantage of the chaotic option is that dirt is much less visible. On the other hand, the range of colors is rather narrow. It can be either plain linoleum, or marbled, etc. materials.

Advantages and disadvantages

Homogeneous linoleum has an impressive number of advantages:

• antistatic qualities;
• wear resistance;
• elasticity;
• ease of maintenance and care;
• elasticity.

About the disadvantages:

• narrow range of colors;
• high requirements for the surface on which the laying will take place - it should be as flat as possible;
• periodic appearance of white stripes on the coating, which are difficult to eliminate.

Homogeneous linoleum: specifications

You should definitely pay attention to them, so as not to make mistakes when choosing and purchasing products.

Coating thickness:

1.5-2 mm - thin layer;

2-3 mm - thick layer.

Wear resistance:

33-34 units - for office premises with a high level of load;

41 units - for commercial premises with a low load level;

42 units - for commercial premises with an average load level;

43 units - for commercial premises with a high level of traffic.

Commercial homogeneous linoleum Tarkett iQ Granit

Abrasion

For this, special tests are carried out using an abrasive wheel, after which the loss in thickness is measured. The test is necessary to determine the degree of resistance of the material to rapid wear. Categories:

F- the lowest indicator (losses no more than 0.6 mm). This linoleum will contain a large amount of impurities (about 65%);

M- characterized by low strength (losses from 0.15 to 0.3 mm). Contains from 40 to 65% of impurities;

P- average strength index (losses from 0.08 to 0.15 mm). It contains about 40% impurities;

T- high strength characteristics (losses no more than 0.08 mm). Extremely low impurity content.

Commercial homogeneous linoleum Polyflor Mistique

Based on these data, you should choose a product. In addition, you need to pay attention to whether there is a lightning bolt icon on the package. In its absence, linoleum will generate an electric current (static). Such a coating is not recommended for installation in places with a large flow of people.

It is also worth inspecting the packaging for the sun painted on it. Its absence means that this product will actively fade in the sun, so it must be laid exclusively in closed offices and other premises.

Photo: homogeneous antistatic linoleum

Laying homogeneous linoleum

The very process of laying this material involves a number of successive stages.

Calculation of the required amount

To begin with, it is recommended to measure the area of ​​the room. If it is less than 20 m², then you can keep within one sheet. Otherwise, you will have to purchase 2 or more canvases. When buying, the first attention is paid to the width - if its parameters are suitable, then the choice regarding the length begins. The main thing is to take into account the distance that the skirting boards cover, as well as the configuration of the room, with all the bends and protrusions.

In addition, the shade of the material may differ, depending on the batch of goods, so you should only purchase products from one batch.

Preparation

Before installing linoleum, a thorough adjustment of the base is carried out, on which the slightest chips, potholes, sagging and bulges are removed. As a rule, craftsmen use special self-leveling mixtures for this. You can also use the milling method. After the end of these works, it is required to clean everything from dust and prime it with high quality.

As for the wooden covering, squeaks, sagging of the boards, etc. are unacceptable defects. Rotten boards need to be replaced, and the rest must be sanded. If there is a strong slope of the coating, the angle must be leveled with plywood.

Flooring process

Homogeneous linoleum cannot be laid immediately after purchase and delivery to the address. First you need to let it rest at room temperature, which will take at least 24 hours.

After alignment, you can start by adjusting the material. It is necessary to create gaps of 3 cm near the walls, and 2 cm at the joints of homogeneous linoleum canvases. Next comes the cutting of the material, which is carried out exactly along the angle between the wall and the floor. They work in a similar way in the places where the sheets are joined.

Then the gluing process begins - it is required to prime both the back side of the linoleum and the floor surface. After that, you need to roll up the roll by 50% and evenly apply the glue to the base, for which it is recommended to use spatulas (notched). You cannot glue it right away - you need to let the glue mature for about 15-35 minutes (at the same time, excess moisture evaporates).

Homogeneous linoleum is easy to cut in any direction

Next comes the alignment stage. After gluing the canvas, its surface is leveled by means of rollers to remove air bubbles. It is necessary to work from the center of the canvas to its edges, and then go across the strips.

Docking linoleum

It is necessary when several panels are glued at once. Several versions are used for docking:

1. Hot welding- this will require a building hair dryer with a special attachment, as well as a cord similar to the color of linoleum. You should tuck the cord into the hair dryer, and lay the linoleum so that there is a gap between the sheets exactly under the cord. Next, a hairdryer is carried out directly along the gap, filling it, after which the excess is cut off.
2. Cold welding- in this case, use liquid glue, which is poured into small gaps between the canvases. After drying, there will be no traces.
3. Iron- This is a folk method, when a polyethylene film coated with PVA glue is placed under the seam. Linoleum is applied to it, after which it is ironed with a hot iron (but not too much, so as not to melt the material).

As you can see, homogeneous linoleum fully justifies the time and money invested in it.

Homogeneous linoleum is a floor covering that is not very common in Russia. Although it is popular abroad and decorates the houses of people who, at first glance, are simple, but also very stylishly decorated their homes. Among all the patterned variety, such a flooring really stands out, and therefore, probably, it did not find popularity among our compatriots, and it’s in vain - on the shelves of building stores and we have a lot of it.

Homogeneous linoleum technology

Homogeneous linoleum, in contrast to heterogeneous, is a homogeneous, one might say, single-layer material. Its thickness is small and reaches 3 millimeters, which is relatively small if we take the maximum 6 millimeters of the same heterogeneous coating. However, the absence of layers only increases the wear resistance and strength of this material. It's like a turret in a tank - if it's cast, it not only looks better, but it can't be pierced by a projectile, but the welds have a bad effect on both the appearance and the armor.

In the composition of homogeneous linoleum, there is not only polyvinyl chloride, as the main component, which is also present in the flooring of a heterogeneous type. Here he also supplements all kinds of fillers, which not only make the product cheaper, but also strengthen it.

The stores are supplied already covered with a polyurethane layer, which protects this material from all kinds of environmental influences on it. Therefore, the resulting scratches on it can be easily wiped off or even sanded during cleaning.

Benefits of homogeneous linoleum

Linoleum will look like new on your floor thanks to grinding throughout its entire service life. By the way, it can serve for more than 25 years. Such a coating is not slippery, and therefore safe, including in terms of hygiene and fire safety. Thanks to the already described polyurethane protection, this material is easy to care for, and its design and color combination on the floor will not deteriorate for more than 20 years.

Homogeneous linoleum catalog

More often than others, he buys from us linoleum collections Monolit, Eminent, Granit, Optima, Primo Plus, Aria, Melodia and others from Tarkett, because the products of this company meet not only fire safety requirements, but are also promptly checked by the sanitary and epidemiological service. According to her conclusion, such coverage can be used not only at home or in the office, but also in medical and educational institutions, where such parameters are important. Other linoleum models are produced in France by Gerflor, presenting our collections Mipolam Robust EL7, Mipolam Accord E7, Univers, Classic Imperial, Mipolam Cosmom Mipolam Troplan 100, 300 and others.

Linoleum is a fairly popular type of flooring. It can be used both in an apartment and in industrial premises. The material was so widespread due to its high technical characteristics. One of the most popular types of linoleum is homogeneous. What is it and what are its features? For answers to these and many other questions, see our today's article.

Homogeneous linoleum - what is it?

This type of flooring is based on polyvinyl chloride. Homogeneous linoleum (including class 43) belongs to the category of PVC coatings and has a number of advantages. Sand, dolomite and lime are used as fillers.

The material has a homogeneous structure. However, his design penetrates the entire thickness. Homogeneous linoleum, along with high strength, has one drawback. This is the lack of variety of colors. Therefore, such material hardly fits into non-standard room designs. Basically, homogeneous linoleum is available in the following colors:

• Imitation of a marble surface.
• Stone chips.
• Abstraction.

This material is often used in offices. This linoleum is highly antistatic, which allows you to easily place various electrical equipment.

Classes

The technical characteristics of a material are largely determined by its class.

There are the following types of homogeneous floor coverings:

• Class from 21 to 23. Such products are suitable for living quarters with a small number of people.
• Class 31-34. This material is used for public premises. The coating has good durability.
• Class 34-43. Homogeneous linoleum of this class is commercial. Differs in high wear resistance and is designed for use in industrial and factory premises.

If we consider the technical characteristics of linoleum of commercial homogeneous class "43", you can find that it contains fillers that give more weight and an even look after laying. However, these additives significantly reduce the strength.

Such material, of course, surpasses the characteristics of the heterogeneous analogue. However, the latter will be more elastic and easier to lay.

Fire performance

Regardless of the type and class, homogeneous linoleum (we already know what it is) can withstand the effects of chemically active substances and withstand high temperatures. Also, the material has the ability to self-extinguish. Flames on this flooring are difficult to spread. If we consider commercial homogeneous linoleum 2 mm, it belongs to the fire hazard class KM-2. This means that the material has the following properties:

• Moderate flammability.
• Weak flammability (category G-1).
• Moderate smoke-generating ability.

Also, commercial linoleum corresponds to the RP-1 category (this means that it does not spread flame).

Terms of operation

This is another important characteristic that many people take into account when buying flooring. Linoleum is highly durable. And the homogeneous type was no exception. The service life of this linoleum can be compared with ceramic tiles. The manufacturer's warranty is 10 years for each square meter of coverage. But, as practice shows, such linoleums do not lose their appearance for 15 years or more under conditions of intensive use.

Dimensions, thickness

All rolls of homogeneous type linoleum have the same width. This parameter is two meters. But its analogue (heterogeneous) is produced in a wide variety of sizes (from two to four meters wide).

With regard to thickness, commercial homogeneous linoleum complies with the EN-428 standard. What does it mean? According to this standard, the thickness of the protective coating is exactly 2 mm. Homogeneous linoleum has a greater thickness than heterogeneous (for the latter, this parameter does not exceed one millimeter).

Other characteristics

The average weight of one square meter of material is about three kilograms. The noise absorption level is from six to ten decibels. The electrical resistance of the material is 109 ohms. The coating can withstand voltages up to two kilowatts. Abrasion - 30 grams per square meter.

Application area

Where can this flooring be used? Due to its high technical characteristics, homogeneous linoleum can be used in:

• Corridors of residential and public areas.
• Classrooms.
• Hotel rooms.
• Living rooms (nursery, living room, bedroom).
• Library and meeting rooms.
• Retail stores.
• Catering premises.
• Sports fields and receptions.
• Pharmacies and medical offices.
• Operating rooms.
• Large office space.
• Exhibition halls.
• Movie theaters and even train stations.

Environmental standards

During manufacture, homogeneous linoleum is subjected to rigorous safety checks. According to international standards, it complies with the ISO-14001 standard. What it is? Homogeneous linoleum that complies with this standard is absolutely harmless to the human body. It does not emit poisonous vapors, therefore it is recommended for use in medical institutions.

Note! Before purchasing, you should check the availability of these certificates. There may be many counterfeit products on the market that do not comply with these environmental regulations.

Main advantages

Should I use this coating for personal use? Experts give a positive answer. Homogeneous linoleum has undeniable advantages. These are high wear resistance, fire safety, absence of a poisonous smell, and also a long service life. As for the latter characteristic, the manufacturer Tarkett gives a 20-year warranty on its products. Such a floor can withstand any impacts and loads. It does not deform and does not absorb moisture. Homogeneous linoleum is undemanding to care for. It is resistant to chemicals and has an anti-static effect.

disadvantages

The main disadvantage of this flooring is the lack of a wide range of colors.

Therefore, the material is used primarily in government agencies and in industry. Also, high styling requirements are imposed on homogeneous linoleum. The surface for such a coating must be perfectly flat. This is the only way to achieve the desired result.

Laying technology

Let's take a look at how homogeneous linoleum flooring is made. Before laying, this material must lie in the room for at least a day. The recommended air temperature is 20 degrees Celsius.

The flooring is done on a perfectly flat surface. First, the homogeneous linoleum is adjusted to the size of the room or room. The gaps in the joints of the product are two centimeters, and near the walls - three. Next, the linoleum is cut strictly along the angle between the wall and the floor. In the area of ​​the joints, a ruler is applied and the excess material is cut off.

If homogeneous linoleum is laid from several pieces, a specialized glue is used. Along with this, the base and the back of the material are primed. How is the glue applied? A roll of linoleum is rolled up to half.

At the next stage, the linoleum surface is rolled with rollers. This eliminates air bubbles that can remain in the adhesive. Rollers process the coating from the center to the edge. Then the material is rolled across the strip with the tool. Then the second half of the roll is rolled up and similar work is performed.

Joining seams

In order for homogeneous linoleum to meet its technical characteristics, it is necessary to correctly join its seams. It is needed in case of laying several panels. There are several ways to dock:

• Cold welding. This method is commonly used for commercial homogeneous linoleum. What is the essence of cold welding? Liquid glue is poured into a narrow slot between the panels. After a day, the composition takes on a solid form. At the same time, the glue does not leave any traces.
• Hot welding. In this case, a slot for the cord is left between the linoleum. The latter is purchased to match the color of the PVC coating. The cord is tucked into a construction hair dryer with a special nozzle. Then it is carried out along the slot. Excess cord is trimmed immediately while the product is still hot. After a few hours, such a cord forms a strong and reliable connection.

There is another, more budgetary way. To do this, fold back the abutting parts of the linoleum and put a film (cellophane) under the seam. From above it is treated with PVA glue. The parts to be joined are pressed against the cellophane, a newspaper is placed and this "sandwich" is processed with an iron.

So, we found out what homogeneous linoleum is and what are its features.

In the modern world, there are a huge number of different materials for home improvement. Linoleum is a comfortable and practical floor covering. Many have already appreciated its excellent performance. However, homogeneous linoleum is especially popular today. This floor covering is very easy to install. It is important not only to choose the right product, but also to carry out a high-quality installation. Experienced experts recommend that you familiarize yourself with all the features and nuances before buying.

Dignity

Commercial homogeneous linoleum has a number of advantages.

Here are just a few of them:

• high resistance to wear;
• elasticity;
• ease of use;
• antistatic.

Composition and characteristics

Homogeneous linoleum is produced from high quality raw materials using the latest technology. Dolomite, lime and quartz sand are used for the manufacture of this finishing material. As for the physical characteristics of homogeneous linoleum, they exceed all expectations. This material is extremely resistant to aggressive media and chemicals. The amount of permanent deformation in any situation does not exceed 0.1 mm. The service life of such a coating can reach a quarter of a century.

Main criteria

How to choose the right commercial homogeneous linoleum? The price in this business is by no means the main thing. You can check the quality of the coverage right in the store. It is enough just to bend a corner of linoleum. If it turns white at the fold, it means that it contains additional components that are used to reduce the cost of the finished product. If a crack forms during bending, then it would be better to refuse the purchase at all. Many impurities can significantly reduce the quality of homogeneous linoleum. To choose a good coating that is highly resistant to wear and tear, you need to carefully study the markings on the price tag. If necessary, you can ask the sales assistant to decipher the records you do not understand.

Wear resistance

There are several classes of resistance to wear, which can be characterized by commercial homogeneous linoleum "Tarkett".

• 33, 34 - linoleum, characterized by high wear resistance. It can be used for installation in domestic premises and offices.
• 41 - used in rooms with low traffic. Possesses poor resistance to mechanical stress.
• 42 - can be used for medium loads.
• 43 is the most durable type of coating. Designed for high permeability and is able to withstand significant physical exertion.

When studying product specifications, it is extremely important to understand the difference between abrasion resistance and wear resistance. In the first case, we are talking about permeability, and in the second, about mechanical action on the surface.

What size of coverage is needed?

If you need to cover a large room with linoleum, then most likely you will have to use two or more canvases. The main thing to consider is the presence of a drawing. If it is necessary to join the canvases, it is important to choose the right pieces of material. It may take 30 to 70 centimeters of linoleum to fit a large piece. It is important to buy material from one batch. Otherwise, the segments may have a different shade. At the same time, you can hardly find a flaw in a hardware store. But after laying on the floor, everything will immediately become clear.

Installation features

Laying homogeneous Tarkett linoleum on the floor, it is worth remembering a number of features.

1. The base for installation must be prepared in advance. To do this, level the surface with a special mixture or screed. You can also try using wood-based panels for this purpose.
2. Homogeneous linoleum should be left in the room for a while before laying on the floor. So he will be able to adapt to the indoor microclimate.
3. The allowances for cutting the material should be 2-3 cm.
4. To improve the adhesive characteristics of the adhesive, the surface is pre-treated with a primer.
5. The adhesive is evenly applied to the surface with a notched trowel. It is not necessary to immediately press the covering laid on top of the base. The glue should be cured within 20 minutes. After that, you can fix the canvas with a rubber roller. It is necessary to roll out linoleum from the center to the edge, and then across.
6. To make the connection of two sections, it is necessary to use the hot welding method. In a domestic environment, you can also use an ordinary iron. With its help, you can not only process the seams, but also repair the damaged fragment of the product. To do this, put a film greased with simple PVA glue on the joint. After laying the coating, the surface is covered with a thin cloth and then processed with a hot iron. The filler will melt and fix the cut point, and the connection will not be visible.

The final stage

Installation work is usually completed with the installation of skirting boards and sills. There should be a small gap of a couple of centimeters between the coating and the wall. This is necessary because the material naturally expands during installation. If the edge is made close to the wall, the surface of the linoleum may swell. It is impossible to restore deformation on such a coating.

Color options

One of the disadvantages that homogeneous linoleum (2 mm thick) has is the poor choice of colors. Such material will hardly fit into rooms of non-standard design.

For the most part, this coating is available in the following versions:

• marbled;
• stone chips;
• abstract drawings.

Homogeneous linoleum is often used in office spaces. Due to its high antistatic properties, a large number of electrical devices can be installed on such a coating.

Fire qualities

Homogeneous linoleum, depending on its class, may have different technical characteristics. However, one of the important qualities of this material is the ability to self-extinguish. The flame spreads poorly over such a surface. Linoleum commercial homogeneous, the thickness of which reaches 2 mm, belongs to the class KM-2. This group of materials is characterized by low flammability, moderate flammability and the ability to generate smoke. If the coating belongs to the RP-1 category, this means that the flame does not spread over its surface.

Term of use

Long service life is another important characteristic that those who buy homogeneous linoleum rely on. The price of this coating is not too high, but at the same time the time of its use is comparable to that of tiles. It is worth noting that today in stores the cost of this material is from 400 rubles per square meter. The price depends on the color and quality. The manufacturer gives a ten-year warranty for every square meter of linoleum. Practice shows that this type of coating retains its original appearance for 15 years.

As for the dimensions, all rolls of this material are characterized by a single length - 2 meters. has a wide variety of possible options. As for the thickness, everything here is determined by the EN-428 standard. This means that the standard density of the protective coating is 2 mm. This is more than the material of the heterogeneous type.

Other characteristics

What other important qualities does homogeneous linoleum have? Thickness, fire properties, service life - we have already considered all this. The mass of a square meter of such material is on average 3 kg. Many are also interested in the noise-absorbing characteristics of the material - they range from 6 to 10 dB. With regard to electrical properties, the resistance of linoleum reaches 109 ohms, and the maximum value of the withstand voltage power is 2 kW.

Due to its excellent performance characteristics, the floor covering can be used in areas with high traffic, such as educational buildings and corridors of public premises. Very often, homogeneous linoleum is used in the repair of schools, kindergartens, catering establishments, shops, hospitals and sports facilities. During production, the coating is carefully checked for compliance with various environmental standards. It is completely harmless to the human body. During operation, this material does not emit any toxic substances, so it can even be used for installation in medical institutions. However, before purchasing this type of coverage, you need to make sure that it has all the necessary certificates. Unfortunately, counterfeit products that are manufactured in violation of environmental requirements are often found on store shelves today.

Conclusion

Can homogeneous linoleum be used to decorate private houses and apartments? Professionals answer this question positively. This material has a number of undeniable advantages. This is resistance to wear, and the absence of toxic fumes, and fire resistance. Such a floor will not be afraid of any loads and impacts. At the same time, it perfectly withstands the influence of chemicals and is undemanding to care. Of course, homogeneous linoleum has its drawbacks. Firstly, the palette of shades of this material is rather scarce. Therefore, it can usually be found in public and government institutions. Secondly, high installation requirements. To achieve the desired result, you will have to properly prepare the base for laying, which sometimes requires additional financial and labor costs.