Linoleum is undergoing a rebirth. It looks great both in a chic mansion, and in a standard apartment, in an office and in an enterprise. For the last two types of premises, commercial and semi-commercial coatings are used. They will become the objects of our comparative analysis. The task is initially not easy, since the goods in question are in different "weight categories". But still try to give them an objective assessment.
Appearance
In a semi-commercial product there is a plurality of coloring and design options, an abundance of artistic solutions. The coating reproduces the surface of the tree, externally approaching a laminate or parquet, natural stone and even marble. The color scheme covers a wide range from natural light tones to intensely dark.
A different picture is observed when looking at a commercial design. Wood motifs are absent here, as well as color and pattern diversity. Typical monochrome or limited to three or four colors palette. Drawing - strict, neutral, abstract, fine grain or speck. This design is dictated by rationality - in a production environment, a dull, monophonic floor does not irritate or distract from work. In addition, it always looks neat, because due to the nature of the pattern, small impurities do not catch the eye.
Conclusion: Semi-commercial linoleum undoubtedly leads in the variety of design. If practicality and non-branding are important, then commercial models will do just fine.
Application area
The second name of the semi-commercial linoleum is office, since it is mainly bought for small offices. But he is also in demand in hotel rooms, small shops, kindergartens. Often used in the residential sector, if you need a floor covering that is more durable than household linoleum.
Where the flow of people is daily and intense, commercial linoleum is excellent. These are large trading, sports, administrative sites, waiting rooms for stations and airports, operating rooms on exchanges and banks, educational, medical, and children's institutions. In residential buildings, the commercial floor is impractical due to the lack of design loads and unjustified costs.
Conclusion: The scope of semi-commercial linoleum - premises with medium loads. Semi-commercial linoleum is in demand in areas with maximum traffic.
Structure
The structure of both samples is approximately the same and contains:
- A protective layer that prevents premature abrasion and damage to the picture.
- A decorative layer that provides aesthetics and gives it completeness. One-color options with an extensive palette or prints with a pattern for wood, stone, metal are possible.
- PVC base.
- Fiberglass, capable of enhancing the strength of the material, eliminating deformation.
- Foamed PVC.
- Wrong marked layer.
Semi-commercial linoleum is always heterogeneous (multilayer). Commercial has two modifications: homogeneous (single layer), and heterogeneous, including 2-7 different layers. The homogeneous form is a homogeneous mixture of PVC granules and dyes. The pattern is not localized in the upper layer, as in the heterogeneous variety, but is distributed over the entire thickness of the material.
Conclusion: Commercial linoleum has more modifications and a wider possible scope.
Wear resistance
According to the standard EN ISO 10874: 2012, semi-commercial linoleum is assigned 31, 32 wear resistance classes, commercial - 33, 34 classes. Wear resistance class is the ability of linoleum to withstand the load. The first digit indicates the type of premises (in this case, figure 3 is offices and commercial premises), the second digit indicates the degree of load.
Semi-commercial linoleum of 31 class is suitable for the house where a large family lives, as well as for hotel rooms, offices, offices and commercial premises with low traffic. 32 class is suitable for larger offices, commercial areas of medium load: small shops, kindergartens, schools.
In the area of high loads, commercial flooring is required. The 33rd class is hypermarkets and offices with a large staff. 34 class - maximum pedestrian loads - stations, airports, cinemas and supermarkets.
Conclusion: The wear resistance of commercial linoleum is higher.
Abrasion
The index shows the rate of destruction of the outer coating. Commercial linoleum is protected by a layer of pure PVC, the least susceptible to wear, and therefore, the most durable. The degree of abrasion - up to 8 g / m² allows us to attribute it to group T (solid linoleum). In the semi-commercial analogue, the values are slightly lower - 10-15 g / m² and group R.
The conclusion is obvious - commercial linoleum wears out more slowly, which means it will last longer.
Protective layer
The state of the protective layer is one of the key features of linoleum. It is the transparency that takes over all the loads, protecting the decorative layer from damage, while maintaining the external freshness of the material. For a semi-commercial coating its thickness is 0.3–0.6 mm, for a heterogeneous commercial coating it is 0.7–1 mm.
Some manufacturers give the protective film useful or special properties. In a homogeneous coating, it is made convenient for cleaning, high-strength or resembling the texture of wood, stone, ceramic tile. In special linoleum, transparency is enriched with substances that give the desired properties: antistatic, bactericidal, anti-skid, etc.
Conclusion: Commercial linoleum wins both in terms of the power of the transparency and the possibility of imparting special properties to it.
The foundation
In the semi-commercial linoleum, two types of substrates are possible - felt (needle-punched), and also made of foamed PVC. In the commercial - mostly foam base. It is much more convenient, since the joints of the rolls are easily joined by cold welding at the molecular level, providing a moisture tight and completely invisible seam.
But felt needle-punched base has its advantages. It is perfectly attached to any planes, does not rot and is extremely tear resistant. On the floor with such a base, depressions from heavy furniture are less pronounced, and the coating itself is cheaper.
Conclusion: Both coatings are produced on a modern basis from foamed PVC. But there is an alternative to semi-commercial - needle-punched substrate, which gives the buyer the opportunity to choose.
Length and width
Semi-commercial linoleum is presented in rolls 1.5–5 m wide with a step of 0.5 m. This allows you to find material that gives a minimum of scraps and seams. The width of commercial heterogeneous linoleum is 2–4 m in increments of 0.5 m, of homogeneous linoleum - 2 m. The length of the roll for both coatings is approximately the same - 15–30 meters.
Conclusion: In terms of width, the semi-commercial view is more diverse.
Total thickness
The standard thickness of a semi-commercial sheet is 2.2–4.5 mm, commercial thickness is 4–7 mm. Thick floor material is pleasant and comfortable for walking, spring resilient due to good cushioning. And the thickness determines the noise and heat insulation, so it is more comfortable in a room with commercial linoleum. 
Conclusion: commercial linoleum is thicker, warmer, quieter, more comfortable.
The weight of the coating indirectly affects its strength and wear resistance. Thus, coatings with a high specific gravity better tolerate the effects of massive furniture, sharp heels or the wheels of chairs. Average weight is calculated per unit area, often per square meter. Semi-commercial linoleum weighing 2–2.5 kg / m² is inferior to commercial (2.8–3.2 kg / m²), while losing in density and strength, although there are models weighing up to 5 kg / m².
Conclusion: commercial linoleum is heavier, denser and stronger.
Fire safety
According to fire regulations, all materials in residential, office and commercial premises are assigned a fire hazard class (KM0, KM1, KM2, KM3, KM4, KM5), which is a derivative of indicators such as combustibility (G), flammability (B), smoke formation ( D), toxicity (T), the speed of flame propagation (RP1). Each letter is accompanied by an index, the larger it is, the more pronounced is the quality indicated by the letter.
The fire-fighting properties of linoleum are due to fire safety requirements for materials used in rooms with a large crowd of people. All five of these criteria are taken into account.
Compared materials are as follows:
- semi-commercial: (G3-G4, B2-B3, D3, RP1-RP2) - KM3 and below,
- commercial: (G1-G2, B2, T2, D2, RP1) - KM2.
Conclusion: The numbers speak for themselves. In commercial linoleum, all indicators are better, which means that in terms of fire safety it is more reliable.
Commercial floors are also more resistant to chemicals: solvents and alkalis.
Environmental friendliness
No major manufacturer will intentionally produce hazardous coatings. But after long service any linoleum can become harmful.
Based on production standards, the semi-commercial linoleum for safety takes the second place after the household. On the other hand, the protective layer is thicker in commercial linoleum.
Conclusion: In order to guarantee the avoidance of harm to health, it is sufficient to specify the life of the coating when purchasing the coating in order to replace it before it becomes unsafe.
Lifetime
Commercial linoleum is comparable in terms of life with marble or ceramic tiles. European standards require exposure to 1 m2 of load coverage of 10 tf for 10 years, without external changes and violation of the integrity of the coating. That is, you can guaranteedly count on the service life of commercial linoleum for at least 15 years - and this is a minimum. Thanks to the composition of pure PVC, homogeneous linoleum lasts 25-30 years even in aggressive environments.
The service life of semi-commercial linoleum is less - about 10 years. But, given the lower cost, this is a good result. 
Conclusion: If the coating requires durability - commercial linoleum is preferable.
Cost
Commercial canvases are produced according to more stringent GOSTs - hence the high cost. Another factor of appreciation is pure PVC as part of the protective layer, which sets a significant part of the cost. In commercial coatings, it is thicker, therefore, the floor is more expensive.
Semi-commercial floor prices are average, although they vary by manufacturer. For example, German products are considered to be elite, therefore, they have the highest value in the segment. But in the lines of many companies there are budget options. Semi-commercial coating made in Eastern Europe or in Russia, costs almost half the price of Western European counterparts.
Conclusion: Semi-commercial linoleum is cheaper and more affordable for buyers.
Household linoleum
Despite the publication of new finishing materials, household linoleum continues to be very popular among wide layers of consumers. In almost every house you can see it on the floor of the kitchen, hallway, loggia or balcony. And all because so far no other option is able to compete with him in terms of practicality and cheapness.
The material has universal properties. He equally "feels good" in both dry and wet rooms. It does not attract dust, does not absorb dirt, does not fade in the sun. In addition, the technology for laying roll material is extremely simple. With a great desire to spread household linoleum on the floor, you can independently, without resorting to the help of professional masters.
Thanks to these characteristics, household linoleum manages to stay on the leader. Modern technologies help to produce this material in a different color palette and simulate the structural surface of natural textures. All this together contributes to increased sales.
Purpose of household linoleum
The purpose of this material is indicated by its name. Household - means home, used for finishing floors in residential premises and where there is no large mechanical load. Marking household rolls is easy to distinguish. They have the lowest wear resistance class - from 21 to 23 units.
Household linoleum is able to last for 10 years, and if it is bedded in the living room, nursery or bedroom, then even more. Much depends on the specific conditions of use. Of course, strong point impacts the material will not withstand.
Therefore, experts recommend that heavy furniture not be moved around the linoleum, and that sparks from fire should be avoided during operation. With proper care, such a coating will last a very long time. But for this it is necessary to purchase varieties of material that have a solid base and a thickness of at least three millimeters.
Types of household models and their features
What is household linoleum? This is a heterogeneous coating, which consists of a mechanical base, a thick layer and a thin polyurethane film. According to the existing classification, there are two types of household linoleum:
- Thin-layer material (it is also called baseless). The thickness of the roll is 1-1.5 mm.
- Thick layer material. Roll thickness - up to 4 mm.
It is clear that the thicker the layer, the stronger the material, the more loads it can withstand and the better it provides sound and heat insulation of the floor. Thick linoleum has another significant advantage - it is not necessary to carefully level the floor base before laying it. He will hide everything - small tubercles, minor cracks and chips. The main thing is that there are no pebbles on the base.
Semi-commercial linoleum of polyvinyl chloride
A household variety may have a different basis. On sale there are models on a foam or felt (jute) substrate.
Foam base is a multilayer synthetic material that is made from compacted and simultaneously foamed PVC. This layer has additional reinforcement made using fiberglass. Above is a transparent protective layer that helps preserve the pattern.
In terms of durability, the foamed substrate is superior to felt analogues. Only she can provide the consumer with a huge selection of color palettes and patterns that can mimic the structure of any modern finishing material. The drawing is clear and believable, and the colors are bright.
Note! Experts recommend the use of linoleum of this kind in medium-traffic areas - in the kitchen, in the bathroom or on the veranda. Since this material copes well with moisture.
The top layer of the felt or jute base also has a protective coating of PVC. But it has a completely different structure. It is soft, supple and warmer. On this material, you can walk barefoot in winter, without feeling much discomfort.
It is best to lay linoleum with a felt base in the bedroom, children's room or in the living room. But in the kitchen and in the bathroom you can not use it, because the felt is afraid of moisture. And one more important circumstance. Laying such rolls on an uneven surface is undesirable. In defective places, the base can easily deform.
Note! This type of linoleum is inferior to the first sample in resistance to mechanical stress. Therefore, the term of its possible operation is much shorter.
However, in fairness, it should be noted that felt linoleum today is the most affordable option for finishing floors. The material does not require special care. Dust and dirt are very easily removed from its surface. In the process of cleaning, you can use a damp cloth, household chemicals and disinfectants.
Commercial linoleum
Commercial linoleum from polymer
The commercial variety of roll material refers to the type of special coatings that can withstand increased mechanical loads. It is used where finishing from parquet or natural stone cannot be performed due to their high cost, and household linoleum simply can not withstand high loads. It is as an alternative to expensive finishing that this kind of roll coating was developed, combining a high degree of wear resistance, long service life and an affordable price.
Such material does not leave traces of street shoes, wheels and furniture legs. The practical side of the issue is not forgotten. Any dirt from commercial models is removed as easily as from household counterparts.
There are special monochrome collections and design offers with original decor, as well as imitation of the most expensive natural floor coverings - marble, wood, ceramic tiles. Therefore, it is quite easy to implement modern stylistic concepts.
Technical features of the material
How is commercial linoleum different from domestic roll material? Special technical characteristics:
- Commercial linoleum has a thick layer, which is made from polyvinyl chloride with the addition of polymer additives.
- Its service life is identical to that for tile materials. Without replacement, such a coating can last for 15 years.
- Wear resistance class covers a range from 31 to 34.
- This material does not support combustion and does not lose its properties when exposed to chemicals.
- The purpose of the material is largely determined by the type of coating, its composition, thickness and production technology.
Purpose of commercial material
Scope of linoleum
Where is commercial linoleum used? In rooms with high traffic. These can be offices, shopping centers, exhibition halls, medical facilities and sports clubs. The scope is largely determined by the existing technical features of the material.
On sale you can find:
- Acoustic linoleum.
- Antistatic.
- Sports.
- Anti-slip.
- Natural.
Acoustic rolls have a foam base that absorbs the sound of footsteps well. Due to this remarkable property, the material is actively used for flooring in reading rooms, medical chambers, in educational and library institutions.
The antistatic variety has interspersed carbon filaments. It is they who divert static electricity from the room, which is filled with office equipment and electrical equipment. It is advisable to use this kind of material in computer labs, physical laboratories and X-ray rooms.
Sports and non-slip commercial linoleum are very similar in their properties. They are used where it is necessary to ensure safety when walking, running, performing physical activity. Often in the manufacture of a polymer coating corundum chips are mixed into it. Such varieties are good for fitness clubs and gyms. The material having a corrugated surface is ideal for flooring in showers, saunas and other rooms with high humidity.
In a special group you need to highlight the coverage used for medical institutions. Among all its technical characteristics, two parameters should come to the fore - sterility and hygiene. Therefore, commercial linoleum is used here, during the production of which special additives are used that can neutralize bacteria and fungi.
Today there is an opinion that commercial linoleum cannot be used for decoration of residential premises. This is not so, and of course there are no special prohibitions. It's just that such material is several times more expensive than household analogues. In this case, the waste of money is not too justified. Commercial rolls can be used if the repair estimate is not limited. But in this case, it is always preferable to choose more decorative natural materials.
You can lay a commercial roll in the hallway or billiard room. But here you can refuse it in favor of semi-commercial options.
Existing species
Homogeneous commercial linoleum
Specialists distinguish two types of commercial coverage:
Homogeneous commercial linoleum is a homogeneous baseless material, the thickness of which does not exceed 3 mm. It contains a large number of fillers, significantly reducing the cost of this flooring. The material is decorated in the factory - it is simply painted. The paint impregnates the entire thickness of linoleum, so during operation it does not wear out.
Heterogeneous linoleum can have a thickness of up to 6 mm. Its structure is formed of several layers:
- The first layer is the base, which contains vinyl with polyurethane.
- The second layer is fiberglass reinforcing.
- The third layer is a protective PVC film that securely seals the pattern.
This option has one advantage - a wide selection of colors and patterns. And yet - only heterogeneous linoleum due to special additives can be turned into anti-slip, antistatic, sports and acoustic.
Semi-Commercial Varieties
Only by studying in detail household and commercial roll materials, it is possible to understand what semi-commercial linoleum is. This is another universal floor covering made of PVC and having a multilayer structure - a heterogeneous structure. It appeared on sale relatively recently.
The market has formed a demand for materials designed to design spaces with medium traffic. And manufacturers very quickly responded to it and offered consumers a semi-commercial linoleum, which can be laid in rooms that do not have direct contact with the street.
Technical features
The main technical feature of the new variety is weight. A meter of household roll weighs a maximum of 1.8 kg. A meter of semi-commercial roll weighs 2.5 kg. Moreover, the appearance of the structure of the described material is no different from the structure of the household model. But some features still exist. And this is what they are.
The bottom layer, like that of household linoleum, in the commercial model is made of foamed polyvinyl chloride. It creates a strong and resilient base that increases the heat and sound insulation properties of the floor covering. High-quality semi-commercial tarkett linoleum, for example, unlike any household material, has a reinforcing layer made of fiberglass. It allows you to stabilize the linear dimensions, as well as strengthen the strength of the flooring.
On sale such products are presented in a wide assortment. There are various semi-commercial roll material with a width of 2 to 4 meters. Therefore, it is much easier to stack, given the features of the room. In addition, modern collections demonstrate a wealth of decorative design that allows even very bold artistic solutions to be realized.
Scope and features of use
Floor coverings for a bedroom
Using this material, it is easy to imitate natural wood (the appearance of the coating is very similar to laminate or parquet), natural stone or marble. Broad and color palette. It is presented in different shades, ranging from light pastel and ending with dark monochrome deep colors.
Most often they choose a semi-commercial linoleum for the kitchen, hallways, conservatories, hotels and small offices. Less often - for the design of bedrooms and living rooms. Use of this material for children is not recommended. It is best to take linoleum on a natural basis.
The base for the described coating should be smooth, free of dust, dirt and moisture. It is advisable to pre-align it with a bulk floor or dry screed. Laying technology is standard. The algorithm of actions is as follows:
- First, the roll rolls on the floor and leaves for several days. The material should take the correct shape and straighten.
- Only after that it can be attached to the base with a special glue.
Note! When buying material you need to consider certain stocks. They should be a few centimeters from each roll.
- Seams are connected using "cold welding". To do this, the edges of two adjacent elements must be closely adjusted to each other.
- When performing welding, make sure that its products do not fall under the seams. If this happens, the seam will be uneven, and besides, it will certainly go apart over time.
The benefits of semi-commercial linoleum
Elegant and durable floor
Finally, we dwell in more detail on the advantages of the new product:
- High wear resistance.
- Good heat resistance.
- Easy installation.
- The possibility of applying a clearer picture.
- Possibility of applying cold welding technology.
- Relatively low cost.
- Aesthetic appeal.
- Huge selection of colors and patterns.
Topic Generalization
After reading such a detailed review, everyone will be able to understand how household linoleum differs from a commercial roll. When choosing a material, the functional purpose of the room and its operational characteristics must be taken into account. It is not necessary to purchase a commercial variety for the design of living space - it is an irrational waste of money.
A good alternative to this choice can be a semi-commercial linoleum. It incorporates the best technical characteristics of both of the materials described above - affordability and high performance properties.
A bit of linoleum history
A distant ancestor of modern rolled and tiled flooring can be considered oiled canvas of dense fabric, which was used not only for sails, but also for laying on the floor. In 1763, the Englishman Nathan Smith patented a material that consisted of woven cloths coated with a hot mixture of coniferous resin, brown dye, beeswax and linseed oil - camptulikon. The new flooring was not very popular with buyers, but the manufacturer continued to experiment and search for the best combination.
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 automobile tires), the composition was processed and introduced modified linseed oil - drying oil. The production technology of the finished product was also finalized, 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 technique, was finalized. At the beginning of the 20th century, Walton, Taylor and Co. (UK) supplied flooring from a mixture of several vegetable oils (modified) under the name glyptal linoleum to the European market. The factories of the Russian Empire located in Riga, Odessa and other cities produced the same goods.
Today this product is produced by the largest factories in the world - Forbo, Tarkett and others. In Europe, it retained the old name - natural linoleum. In our country, it is known by the name of the registered trademark of Forbo Flooring Systems - marmoleum or marmoleum.
Table 1. Advantages and disadvantages of marmoleum
| pros | Minuses |
| High wear resistance | Permanent characteristic odor of oils |
| Bacteriostatic | Fragility at subzero temperatures |
| Non-slippery surface | High price |
| Moderate fire resistance | The need for styling using special adhesives |
| Antistatic | |
| Biodegradation disposal | |
| Easy to clean and maintain | |
| Safety for adults and children |
In the territory of our country since the mid-50s. of the last century, due to the scarcity of natural raw materials, a new product was developed - PVC linoleum. Although the composition of this flooring had nothing to do with natural material, nevertheless, the name was retained.
table 2. Features of PVC linoleum
| pros | Minuses |
| High wear resistance | In case of fire emits toxic substances. |
| Moisture resistance and water resistance of a surface | Accumulates static electricity, attracts dust |
| Acceptable prices | Most collections have a smooth, slippery surface. |
| Easy styling | |
| Easy care | |
| Long life under appropriate operating conditions |
Synthetic linoleum is produced homogeneous (high density with a homogeneous structure) and heterogeneous (multilayer).
The second variety consists of:
- A base layer made of expanded polyvinyl chloride or polyester yarns that form a non-woven felt fabric. The assortment of Tarket and Utex has collections on a duplicate basis,
- The front layer, which is a thin high-density PVC layer, on a flat surface of which a decorative pattern is applied by printing method in accordance with the designer's idea: board, parquet, ceramics, abstraction and much more,
- The wear layer is the so-called transparency, a protective thin layer (often polyurethane or complex with special additives), which protects the product from abrasion and other loads, as well as household chemicals, water, sunlight, etc.
Large plants add extra layers to the linoleum structure. This can be fiberglass for reinforcement, sealing layers for the wrong side, preventing water absorption, etc.
To summarize: now on sale you can find linoleum products made in the following formats:
- Natural marmoleum in rolls, tiles and combi versions (linoleum products on an HDF basis),
- PVC linoleum homogeneous and heterogeneous rolled, cut into planks or tiles,
- Synthetic special material used exclusively for difficult operating conditions (rail or sea transport, production facilities, etc.). These are relin, colloxylin or nitrocellulose linoleum and others.
In domestic conditions, as well as for commercial, commercial and public facilities, the first two types are used. But where and which ones - read below.
Commercial (Industrial)
Commercial linoleum is sometimes also called industrial linoleum. Such linoleum can be laid in both residential and office premises.
Commercial linoleum - This is a special coating for floors with increased wear resistance. It is made of dense polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Due to the fact that this linoleum is painted over the entire thickness, its pattern is erased imperceptibly, therefore, it has a wide layer of wear. Commercial linoleum can last up to 25 years.
This type of linoleum is laid in medical, educational, commercial, office and other public places. In addition, most often commercial linoleum has the property of anti-slip, which makes it also safe.
As a rule, in production it is made in the form of rolls, the width of which is 2 m, and the thickness is 1.5 or 2 mm.
The average price of commercial linoleum from 340 rubles per m2.
Semi-commercial
It is a cross between strength and price between household and commercial linoleum.
Semi-commercial linoleum can be laid in rooms with normal or moderately high traffic. The basis in it can be both foamy and needle-punched. The upper protective layer reaches at least 0.3 mm in thickness.
The roll width of such linoleum is 2 - 4 m.
The average price of semi-commercial linoleum from 275 rubles per m2.
Homogeneous
Such linoleum uniform throughout thickness. It is used in rooms with increased load intensity (commercial linoleum), since the appearance of a homogeneous linoleum is simply restored. To do this, use special mastic that can give the coating an updated look.
The dimensions of such linoleum are 2 m, 3 m or 4 m. It is usually produced in rolls, but can also be in tiled form.
Heterogeneous
The difference between this linoleum from the previous one is that it layered. As a rule, a heterogeneous coating has a thickness of 2-6 mm. In its production, fiberglass is used, which performs a strengthening function. A polyvinyl chloride layer is applied to the glass canvas, on which a pattern can be printed. The top layer is applied protective transparent film.
Antistatic
There is also an antistatic linoleum, which protects against static electricity that occurs in connection with a large number of working equipment in the room. Dust adversely affects highly sensitive electrical appliances, even cases of fire are possible. Special anti-static coating reduces dust accumulation.
Main advantage antistatic linoleum is the possibility of its use in the premises where high-precision equipment is located, since the use of other types of linoleum there is unacceptable. This type of coating is highly reliable and durable, but its price is higher.
average price from 290 rubles per m2.
Insulated
Insulated linoleum - This is a thermoplastic PVC flooring on a synthetic or natural basis. Insulated linoleums include coatings based on felt, jute or polyester. There are combined double bases in which foamed vinyl and polyester are combined. Such linoleums are more resistant to tearing, at the same time they are soft and elastic, which makes them easy to spread on the floor surface.
Linoleum with insulation is often used in the country or in a country house.
And here is an article and photo catalog about linoleum.
For sports loads
Sports linoleum - This is a floor covering in sports facilities. It provides strength, resilience, safety and cleanliness, and also does not slip, has no seams, dries quickly and has an attractive appearance. The top layer of sports linoleum is made of high-strength polyvinyl chloride, so that it can withstand very large loads.
Liquid
Liquid linoleum, or, as it is called in professional circles, a polymer bulk floor, is becoming increasingly popular among floor coverings. In its appearance, it is not much different from ordinary linoleum, but it feels more like a ceramic tile to the touch.
The polymer bulk floor has a lot of advantages.
- Lack of gaps and connecting seams as the floor is poured simultaneously.
- The configuration of the room where there will be a bulk floor does not matter. It will also save you from wasting time joining the pattern.
- The undoubted advantage is the widest color palette. By mixing the right dyes and decorative elements, you can create a unique floor covering that only you will have. The surface of the floor can be either glossy or matte, rough or smooth - depending on the wishes of the customer.
- Liquid linoleum is particularly durable and reliable. The thickness of the upper layer reaches 1.5 mm, in contrast to the usual 0.3 mm. This significantly affects the durability of use: such linoleum can last up to 50 years, that is, 2 to 3 times more than the usual coating.
- The polymeric bulk floor is shockproof, there are practically no traces of scratches, dents or other mechanical damage on it.
- It is waterproof, so it can be laid in the bathroom.
- Important advantages are its environmental friendliness. Such linoleum is perfect in the room where the children are. The polymer floor is not combustible and non-toxic, therefore it is widely used in rooms with increased fire hazard.
Fire fighting
This type of linoleum is perfect for use in schools, kindergartens, residential, public and office buildings, warehouses, hotels, as well as in rooms that are subject to increased fire safety requirements.
Any material has a combustibility group. Exists fire safety classificationhighlighting the corresponding combustibility groups:
- G1 linoleum (low combustible material),
- G2 linoleum (moderately combustible material),
- G3 linoleum (normally combustible material),
- G4 linoleum (highly combustible material).
Children
Linoleum for a children's room should have fireproof, heat-insulating, antibacterial, anti-slip, shockproof, noise-absorbing properties, and it should be comfortable to the touch and easy to clean. The flooring in the children's room should not have pronounced seams, otherwise the child may be injured. The surface of the floor should be smooth and even.
Children's linoleums have interesting and most varied colors. They can be printed with your favorite cartoon characters, animals or entire cities to make the game of children even more interesting.
And here is an article about natural linoleum.
In this section of our site https://ru-house.net/stroitelstvo/krysha/ everything important and necessary about the roof of the house.
3D linoleum - These are innovative developments in the process of manufacturing floor products, which allows you to create a unique style for any room. The room space due to the use of 3D linoleum can visually increase several times, and this is not its last advantage.
Thanks to modern technology, such a linoleum can be applied to absolutely any pattern (at the request of the customer). Looking at the 3D floor gives the impression of its volume. Often such linoleum is used in children's rooms. Among the properties can also be noted high wear resistance, impact resistance, noise absorption and the ability to withstand temperature fluctuations. 3D (3D) linoleum perfectly resists the penetration of moisture and odors.
In production, it is made in rolls with dimensions from 2.5 to 4 m in width and 3 mm in thickness.
average price from 470 rubles per m2.
Types of linoleum and their differences
Linoleum products, both rolled and threaded, are classified according to such characteristics as the level of load and scope. Both parameters depend on the strength and thickness of the upper layer, as well as the overall density and resistance to deformation. Let's consider in order.
In accordance with the scope of use, natural and PVC linoleum is divided into 4 basic types:
Commercial heterogeneous and homogeneous
Products with a high level of resistance to abrasion and deforming loads. It is produced for installation in industrial, warehouse, sanatorium, medical, educational, commercial and commercial facilities. It is often used in exhibition and conference rooms, restaurants, shops, hotels and other similar premises.
Unlike the household series, commercial and semi-commercial linoleum can not boast of a chic set of decors. Expensive products are produced only in the most popular designs: broadband, granite or marble chips, as well as plain ones, for the board.
The price of products is high, installation requires special equipment, but the corresponding service life. Commercial linoleum, even in the most difficult conditions, will last at least 20 years.
Specialized
A series of coatings characterized by extremely high resistance to any load:
- Sport (for sports and dance halls with resistance to abrasion, as well as to vertical deformations, sliding, etc.,
- Antistatic or current dissipative,
- Acoustic or sound insulating (with suppression effect),
- For wet rooms (fully waterproof),
- Wall (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
According to EN 685, each linoleum product, according to the test results, must be assigned a certain class of wear resistance, characterizing the level of withstand loads.
So, household series belong to the 21-23 and 31 classes, the semi-commercial linoleum corresponds to 31-33 classes, and the commercial 32-34 and 41-42. Special is classified as 4 groups, that is, 41-43 categories. Full information, as a rule, is available in the catalogs that every seller should have with them. On the wrong side, manufacturers indicate not the product class, but various characteristics: the presence of additional layers, service life, moisture or light resistance, etc.
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Description
Commercial linoleum is used as a floor covering in areas with high traffic - in fact, this is a variant of industrial floor material. It may vary depending on how many layers each particular option includes. The most common selling method is in segments, the length of which can be chosen by the buyer.
The main component of the coating is PVC, which is highly resistant to wear, due to which its service life is much longer than that of many analogues. And the stained top layer allows the coating to serve without rubbing for a very long period.
Commercial linoleum is best used for rooms with high traffic
Features of linoleum
Today, linoleum is produced by many factories around the world. By the way, in Europe, this product is still called natural linoleum, and in Russia it is called marmoleum.
Since the mid-20th century, the USSR began to widely produce linoleum from PVC - this was due to the lack of a sufficient amount of natural ingredients. Despite the fact that this material had practically no similarities with the original, the name was still fixed as before.
Speaking of linoleum from synthetic materials, two main varieties can be distinguished - homogeneous (having a structure of a homogeneous nature) and heterogeneous (from several layers).
There are two types of linoleum - homogeneous and heterogeneous.
In turn, multilayer linoleum consists of the following components.
- The main layer, which consists of polyvinyl chloride and which is a non-woven cloth made of felt. Some firms, for example, Yuteks or Tarket, use the duplicated basis.
- Front layer - it consists directly of high-density PVC, where a decorative pattern is applied in accordance with the design decision. There are also the most popular options, such as drawing in the form of a natural tree, ceramics or abstract patterns.
- The wear layer is a protective layer of polyurethane or a complex of synthetic materials, which allows you to protect linoleum from increased load and allows it to withstand exposure to liquids, sunlight and household substances.
Heterogeneous linoleum consists of several layers, the amount of which may vary depending on the type of linoleum
Most large manufacturers usually add a few more layers of material - so, for compaction from the inside, you can add layers that will prevent the material from absorbing water, etc.
So, in total, on the market you can find both linoleum made from natural materials (called marmoleum), and synthetic and PVC linoleum (the latter is made in planks or rolls.
There are also types of this coating intended for specific industrial use and difficult operating conditions - in transport, in factory premises, etc.
Differences between household and commercial linoleum
At first glance, the differences between the two types of flooring may not be obvious. First of all, however, the price catches your eye - household linoleum is used everywhere and is quite cheap, an intermediate version in the form of semi-commercial linoleum is sold at an average price, and the highest price will have to be paid for a dense and reliable commercial linoleum.
Commercial linoleum has a higher price than household
All details about the coating can be seen on the marking, however, the information from the tags may not always be fully understood by an uninitiated user.
First, pay attention to the visual component, namely, consider the linoleum from the side. On the front side, a thin protective layer will be visible - it is he who indicates what class linoleum belongs to. Typically, the thickness of this layer will be from 0.1 mm to 1 mm.
Thus, for household linoleum, the protective layer will be the thinnest and most unreliable, it rarely protects against anything other than mild domestic violations - its thickness will rarely exceed 0.2 mm.
If we are talking about semi-commercial linoleum, then it will have a denser and thicker protective layer, which will be about 0.4 mm.
The thickness of the protective layer in commercial linoleum is quite large - about 1 mm
And in commercial linoleum, the thickness of this layer will reach values of about 0.8 or 1 mm, but the thickness of the main panel, on the contrary, will be less.
The thicker the protection layer, the thinner the linoleum base will be.
Remember that it is not necessary to build on the thickness of household material - it can be different, so pay attention exclusively to the layer for protection. It is not always possible to get up-to-date information on a tag, and not every seller can immediately determine the difference between, for example, commercial and semi-commercial coverage.
Advantages and disadvantages
Let's look in more detail at what characteristics commercial linoleum has, what its advantages are and what its disadvantages are.
So, the advantages of commercial linoleum:
- lack of combustibility, high resistance,
- less glide on the surface,
- excellent sound insulation
- resistance to liquids,
- a wide range of flourishes and textures,
Commercial linoleum is absolutely not afraid of water
Such flooring can serve for quite a long time - at least 20 years
In addition, this class of linoleum is resistant to decay, prevents the development of mold and mildew spores, this is especially true for rooms with high humidity (kitchens, bathrooms).
Dampness does not affect its texture in any way - linoleum is not decomposed. Even wet cleaning is acceptable. In addition, contaminants remain on the surface and are not absorbed into linoleum itself.
The replacement process is also quite simple - it does not need to be put on glue. The canvas can be purchased with a single sheet, which will help to avoid joints.
Despite the abundance of positive characteristics, cons, unfortunately, are also present.
First of all, such linoleum is quite difficult to trim with conventional widely available tools. It is also not easy to transport because of its greater weight compared to household counterparts.
It is quite difficult to transport linoleum commercially due to its heavy weight
This type of linoleum requires careful surface leveling - it must be truly flawless. If you are using a foam-based model, you will definitely need a backing. Also, this material does not pass oxygen well.
It should be remembered that not every coating will look great on the floor - when laying thin linoleum, you may encounter defects in the main coating. Therefore, they always use a substrate for installation - linoleum itself will not hide a single minor imperfection.
Note! It is necessary to carefully adjust the panel itself to the walls of the room, because in the absence of this action you can encounter bloating of linoleum.
If the subfloor has small flaws, you can hide them using the linoleum backing
For additional protection of the coating, a specialized layer of wax and polymeric materials is used. This is a rather long and laborious process, which, as a rule, not every construction team agrees to undertake.
Use cases
Let's look at the main ways to use commercial linoleum. There are three main classes - 41, 42 and 43. 41 classes are less resistant to wear compared to their commercial counterparts. It is laid in small rooms, most often in clothing stores, printing houses or service salons. Often, workers sit there and do not use vehicles when moving. Such linoleum is also laid in residential premises, country houses, on terraces.
Class 42 linoleum is intended for rooms with high traffic, in small warehouses. A 43 class is considered the most stable and is used in large warehouses.
Due to its good resistance to chemicals, commercial linoleum is often used in scientific laboratories. The absence of slip and excellent cushioning make it an ideal option for coverage in sports complexes and fitness clubs.
Commercial linoleum has grades 41-43
This is an environmentally friendly material, so it is also laid in most children's and medical institutions.
In factories and in factory premises there is also room for commercial linoleum due to its incombustibility and good wear resistance).
Of course, the list of possible places of application is not limited to the above. In fact, it can be used anywhere, but it is rarely stacked at home due to the increased cost.
Which linoleum is better to choose - 41.42 or 43 classes?
Parameters
Commercial linoleum differs from simpler analogues by the features of its structure.
Usually it consists of a base, which is usually foamed or textile, fiberglass, a specialized protective coating of two layers (UV and PVC layers), a base for design drawing and embossing on the surface.
When selecting commercial linoleum pay attention to the following characteristics:
- The thickness of the material will be from 2 to 4 millimeters (usually commercial linoleum is not very thick).
- Protection reaches about 1 millimeter.
- The parameters of the canvas will depend on the size of the room (usually use a width of 3 or 5 meters).
- The degree of sound insulation of this type of linoleum reaches 10 dB or more.
- One square meter of linoleum will weigh about three kilograms.
- Abrasion - not more than 10 grams per square meter.
Commercial linoleum typically has a thickness of 2 to 4 mm
Special attention should be paid to such an indicator as the wear resistance class. This is a special type of labeling that shows the purpose of the linoleum sold - they usually rely on these data to figure out which rooms are suitable for such linoleum. So, the marking consists of two numbers. The first is 3 (linoleum for office premises) and 4 (production linoleum), and the second indicates what load can be acceptable for a given surface: from 1 (lowest load) to 4 (respectively, the highest).
For example: class 31 and 32 can be used in utility or office rooms with very low traffic, class 33 and 34 are suitable for ordinary shops and offices (they can also be used for apartment renovation, in the hallway or in the kitchen), but 41 -43 are good for warehouses and enterprises with high traffic.
You do not need to use the highest class of wear resistance for ordinary rooms - if they do not have heavy furniture, the usual semi-commercial linoleum is enough.
In residential premises it’s not at all necessary to use commercial linoleum - a cheaper, but no less high-quality household one is also suitable
Types of commercial linoleum
In the market for construction products, you can find a huge number of varieties of commercial linoleum, each of which is well suited for a certain type of premises, where it will be used. The main types are acoustic, antistatic and sports.
Acoustic linoleum consists of a foam base, and for sports, corundum chips are added to the coating. Antistatic linoleum is additionally supplied with carbon thread, which helps to achieve an antistatic effect - this coating is used in rooms with a large amount of equipment and technology.
You can purchase acoustic linoleum, which will soundproof the room
Commercial linoleum can also be classified as homo- and heterogeneous.
The homogeneous type of coating is uniform, is 3 millimeters in thickness and cheaper due to the use of special fillers in its production.
Such linoleum is stained completely through the entire thickness and is rather slowly worn away.
Heterogeneous linoleum weighs much more and looks more presentable. It can be used along with such “noble” coatings as ceramics or marble. Polyurethane protection makes it possible to smooth out irregularities, and the coating is also more wear-resistant.
Regarding the model range, all types of coating can be divided into roll and tile. Most often, the first variety is found on sale - it is more familiar to everyone and looks like a uniform panel of various widths. Such linoleum is usually laid on a special mounting glue, but sometimes without using it.
Commercial linoleum can be rolled and tiled
Tiles are similar to ordinary ceramic tiles, only made of linoleum material. The standard shape is usually square and triangular. This form allows you to make installation easier and makes it possible for a more flexible design of the room.
Also, a separate classification can be noted depending on the type of room where the coating is laid.
If you still plan to install commercial linoleum in the corridor or hallway, give preference to the option with anti-slip coating, which is usually done with granite chips. For children's, bathrooms and kitchens produce a coating with an antiseptic effect.
It is better to use linoleum with anti-slip coating, especially for the kitchen, bathroom and hallway
The coating with the addition of metal shavings is placed in rooms only for industrial use.
Sizing
The size of the flooring is that parameter that cannot be selected “at random” - it is imperative to calculate it before purchasing the material.
The industrial appearance of linoleum can be produced in different widths, up to five meters. The usual width is from one and a half to two and a half meters. If there is a substrate, then the width reaches three meters (this is due to the increased tendency of the tissue layer to deform). For a PVC substrate, a maximum width of five meters is permissible.
Roll linoleum can be of different lengths - from 6 to 60 meters. In order to be able to calculate the required amount of material, you need to find out the maximum length and width of the room and add about 10 centimeters to it.
It is important to take measurements of the room in advance and determine how much material is required.
It is best to perform calculations using specialized equipment. When you choose the size, focus also on where exactly the seams will be joined - this is especially important for figured cover or design options.
When choosing the thickness, focus on the permeability of the room - the higher it is, the thicker the protective layer should be.
If we are talking about a room that is actively and regularly used, it is better to stay on a coating with a thickness of 5-7 mm.
How to calculate how much linoleum is needed
Colors
For commercial linoleum, there are a large number of possible color design solutions.
The main factors that will determine the color of the coating are practicality, the uniqueness of the pattern and the color matching with other interior details.
Usually, beige and brown colors (from light sand to dark chocolate) and dark colors of a neutral palette (gray, brown) are considered the most practical.
In the second category there can be a wide variety of options selected by the designer, more often they are quite unique and can be either an imitation of natural materials (wood or stone coating), or look like a more expensive coating, such as parquet or laminate.
There is a wide range of commercial linoleum - you can choose the material of the desired color and texture
Many designers recommend not limited to traditional palettes, and try contrasting combinations - for example, gray and several shades of brown, dark shades with beige, mustard and orange, the use of white in combination with other colors.
Usually, white and black colors are not used in their pure form - white quickly gets dirty, and black visually reduces the room and looks rather gloomy. However, they can be used as a beautiful accent.
For tiled linoleum, there are more options for use - monochrome combinations, imitation wood, bright colors, combinations of orange and green with black and beige and much more. The pattern of tiled linoleum may look like simple squares or an interesting mosaic pattern, different numbers of squares of different sizes, rhombuses.
It’s better not to buy white and black linoleum - they wear out faster than others
Manufacturers
Having dealt with the main characteristics of commercial linoleum, it is also worth paying attention to manufacturers. Contact only trusted companies, and to make it easier for you, we examined the main brands that differ in positive feedback from customers.
| Manufacturer | Description |
|---|---|
| Tarkett | One of the most popular brands, which produces high quality materials, is distinguished by its own developments and the use of modern technological processes. You can choose both homogeneous and heterogeneous options with various additional effects, such as antistatic, moisture resistance and others. |
| Armstrong | World famous holding company with a huge range of products. It is in the top in its segment, quality standards are observed at the factory, the finished material is stable and highly environmentally friendly with the possibility of further processing. |
| Grabo | A manufacturer from Hungary, specializes in refractory types of flooring of various types for commercial and industrial premises. You can choose the appropriate option depending on the required characteristics and color scheme. |
| Juteks | It specializes in premium flooring with imitation of laminate, tile, stone and parquet. You can choose the linoleum of the required width, mainly in the classic color scheme (beige and gray versions). It has high wear resistance, suitable for long-term operation. |
It is worth buying products only trusted manufacturers
The market for linoleum producers is not limited to these companies, we recommend that you first familiarize yourself with the company you have selected and look for consumer reviews about it.
Choose a cover
To approach the selection of linoleum should be thorough. Your choice will determine how high-quality the finished work will be and how long the floor will last.
Almost any color can be selected, the main thing is that it harmonizes with shades of furniture, walls, doors and other interior details.
The size is selected strictly according to the width of the room - it is better if it is larger. You can always crop, but you can’t expand it anymore.
The pattern is selected depending on the characteristics of the room - the level of illumination and the amount of free space.
It is worth choosing the right linoleum drawing so that it blends well with the overall interior of the room
For home use, it is best to dwell on the average thickness of the material. So it will be possible to hide minor irregularities, without fear that the coating will not be sufficiently protected.
If you plan to install underfloor heating, take care of the compatibility of suitable linoleum with it.
Antibacterial treatment is an excellent solution, especially if there are children and animals in the house.
The denser the material, the more durable it is.
Pay attention to the smell - it should not be very noticeable. If the smell is too strong, most likely, not the most useful impurities can be involved in the production.
The product should not emit a strong smell
Remember practicality and appropriateness - for example, dark, calm tones look good in the office corridor, you can make the floor more saturated in the dining area, materials with imitation of natural coating will look good in the office.
The selection of the pattern is also very important. If the interior of the room is saturated with a large number of small details, then the coating should be uniform, and for rooms in a minimalist style, floors with an interesting design solution will do.
In rooms with low traffic, you can give preference to more budget options for linoleum.
Pay attention also to the quality guarantee and documentation - a certificate must be provided for any purchased material.
When buying linoleum, be sure to pay attention to quality certificates
The features of commercial linoleum include its increased density - it is more rigid and does not bend when marking and laying. Be sure to leave a small gap of about 0.5 cm near the walls under the baseboards.
Commercial linoleum prices
The cost of different types of commercial linoleum may vary depending on the class and manufacturer. We propose to study the table, which lists the most popular manufacturers of commercial linoleum and the cost of their products.
| Manufacturer Class | Price for 1 square. m |
|---|---|
| Tarkett (grade 42) | 427 p. |
| Juteks (grade 42) | 1386 p. |
| IVC (grade 41) | 612 p. |
| Grabo (grade 43) | 704 p. |
| Ideal (42 class) | 826 p. |
| Polystyl (grade 43) | 562 p. |
| Sinteros (grade 41) | 579 p. |
Interior solutions
The choice of linoleum can be approached creatively and beautifully emphasize the dignity of the room, skillfully hiding the flaws.Remember - linoleum should complement the general concept of the room, and not overload it.
Familiarize yourself with the concepts offered by experienced designers, try experimenting with different options, reworking them and complementing them.
For offices made in a modern or minimalist style, you can use linoleum with original large prints.
In offices or other premises, commercial linoleum with various prints can be used.
Linoleum with imitation laminate will help complement the composition, made in black and gray shades. In such a room, furniture in warm colors with a similar texture will look good.
To make rooms with a bright interior more comfortable, linoleum with imitation of stone texture, made in brick tones, will help.
Linoleum for parquet with “zigzags” will make the interior more warm and dull, especially if figurines, pillows and a large number of small shelves are used as decorative accessories.
For dining areas in the Provencal style, imitation of light tiles is suitable - this coating option will emphasize light shades in the interior and allow more attention to be paid to details.
Commercial linoleum is great for halls
You can choose a coating with various interesting patterns that will transform the room
For the office you can pick up commercial linoleum, decorated under a wooden floor, laminate
For use in the premises of various companies, you can choose a "strict" monophonic commercial linoleum
For public spaces, linoleum of dark tones is well suited.
Often commercial linoleum is laid in stores
