Floor covering is no less important than wall decoration. The flooring is represented by many different materials, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. The most common option is linoleum. It is easy to install, use and clean. It would seem that when choosing it is enough to be guided only by its appearance. But such a coating also has various types, from which the so-called heterogeneous linoleum stands out.
What is heterogeneous linoleum
Heterogeneous coating is a synthetic laminate for the floor. The main advantage is that it fits onto any floor base. It is further classified into three varieties:
- commercial;
- semi-commercial;
- domestic.
The main difference between the species is the thickness of the top layer, which is protective. In accordance with this technical characteristic, the scope of application also varies. So, household is more suitable for flooring in homes, and commercial - in offices.
The structure of the flooring is as follows (from top to bottom):
- The protective layer of polyurethane - 2-4 mm.
- Transparent protective layer (most often varnish for fixing the picture) - 0.5 mm.
- Decorative layer (the main layer of the picture or pattern) - the thickness depends on the type of application.
- The upper foam layer is 2 cm.
- Primed bearing layer (often fiberglass) - 5 mm.
- The bottom foam layer is 2 cm.
- The backing layer is usually just a layer with manufacturer data.
All sizes are regulated by GOST, the requirements of which are met in the production of coating material.
Heterogeneous linoleum has the advantage of applying any kind of pattern to the top decorative layer. Using this feature, it is possible to achieve an imitation of any type of coating, which is a plus when choosing a floor covering.
REFERENCE! Marble floor will be several times more expensive than a heterogeneous coating with a marbled pattern.
The decorative layer allows you to accurately repeat the structure of marble, creating a full-fledged imitation that will not differ in appearance.
How is it different from usual?
There are two main types of linoleum coating - homogeneous (single layer) and heterogeneous (multilayer) type. They differ not only in the number of layers, but also in composition, materials and production technology.
The main difference lies precisely in the external part. In other words, how many layers are contained in the coating - one or many. The homogeneous material also contains a predominant amount of lime. This is especially evident with improper storage or installation. Lime is clearly visible at the excesses of homogeneous linoleum, which does not happen with heterogeneous material.
REFERENCE! However, there is a certain minus in the differences: a homogeneous linoleum can be restored by simple grinding, while a damaged heterogeneous one will have to be completely replaced.
How different is the price
Heterogeneous linoleum is much more expensive than homogeneous, which is quite obvious. However, in comparison with other floor coverings, its price is relatively low.
The main reason for the difference in price between the two types is the complexity of production technology. Homogeneous is produced much faster, less requirements are required for its production according to GOST. Consequently, production is faster.
Due to layering, heterogeneous is produced under difficult technological conditions. In addition to weaving, complex technological lines are used when applying the pattern and its subsequent processing. A lot of materials are used, which affects the structure of the final coating.
The average cost of heterogeneous linoleum is 300-400 rubles per 1 m².
IMPORTANT! Before purchasing, you must necessarily request a quality certificate for the product. This is the only way to guarantee complete confidence that the material fully complies with all requirements and characteristics.
Advantages and disadvantages of such linoleum
Obviously, many buyers will attribute the relatively high cost of coverage to disadvantages. However, it is it that is completely compensated by the following advantages of the material:
- elasticity - it is unlikely that defects will appear during storage, transportation, laying;
- antistatic - the floor does not conduct electric current, since it does not accumulate static electricity;
- uniformity of the pattern across all layers, which ensures the preservation of the integrity and brightness of the picture regardless of operation;
- the difference in patterns - it can be embossed (which allows you to simulate natural materials), or printed;
- high resistance to wear - it will not rub, will not fade and will not be damaged due to accidentally falling things or movement of furniture;
- Duration of operation - a warranty period of at least 10 years, subject to proper installation and sufficient care;
- ease of installation;
- ease of cleaning;
- the opportunity to choose among colors and imitations, or even make your own order (the price, of course, will be higher).
In addition to the high price, among the shortcomings can only be noted requirements for the base of the floor. But it is the only one and is that it should be even. So linoleum will lie denser and no bumps will appear even with time of use.
IMPORTANT! The main thing is that the base of the floor is perfectly flat, which is certainly checked and measured before laying heterogeneous linoleum.
When laying the coating, all the slightest tubercles will become noticeable, which will lead to rapid wear of even heterogeneous linoleum. Many layers in many ways make it possible to smooth out this drawback of linoleums, but the probability of the appearance of small defects becomes much higher.
Thus, a heterogeneous coating is one of the best, not expensive floor coverings. Such linoleum is easy to clean, it will last a long time due to its structure. A wide selection of colors and patterns allows you to choose the right coating for any type of interior.
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