Heterogeneous linoleum what is it?

Floor covering is no less important than wall decoration. Flooring comes in many different materials, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. The most common option is linoleum. It is easy to install, subsequent operation and cleaning. It would seem that when choosing, it is enough to be guided only by its appearance. But this coating also has different types, from which the so-called heterogeneous linoleum stands out.

What is heterogeneous linoleum

Heterogeneous coating is a synthetic layered material for flooring. The main advantage is that it can be installed on any floor surface. Additionally classified into three types:

• commercial;
• semi-commercial;
• domestic.

The main difference between the types is the thickness of the top layer, which is protective. In accordance with this technical characteristic, the scope of application also differs. Thus, household is more suitable for flooring in homes, and commercial - in offices.

The structure of the flooring is as follows (from top to bottom):

1. Protective layer of polyurethane - 2-4 mm.
2. Transparent protective layer (most often varnish to fix the pattern) - 0.5 mm.
3. Decorative layer (the main layer of the design or pattern) - the thickness depends on the type of application.
4. The top foam layer is 2 cm.
5. The primed supporting layer (often fiberglass) is 5 mm.
6. The bottom foam layer is 2 cm.
7. The backing layer is usually just a layer with the manufacturer's data.

All sizes are regulated by GOST, the requirements of which are met during the production of coating material.

Heterogeneous linoleum has the advantage of applying any type 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! A marble floor will be several times more expensive than a heterogeneous coating with a marble pattern.

The decorative layer allows you to exactly replicate 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 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 noticeable if it is not stored or installed correctly. Lime is clearly visible when bending homogeneous linoleum, which does not happen with heterogeneous material.

REFERENCE! However, there is a certain disadvantage in the differences: homogeneous linoleum can be restored by simple sanding, while damaged heterogeneous linoleum will have to be completely replaced.

How different is the price?

Heterogeneous linoleum is much more expensive than homogeneous, which is quite obvious.However, compared to other floor coverings, its price is relatively low.

The main reason for the price difference between the two types is the complexity of the production technology. Homogeneous is produced much faster; there are fewer requirements for its production according to GOST. Consequently, production occurs faster.

Heterogeneous due to layering is produced under difficult technological conditions. In addition to weaving, complex technological lines are used to apply the pattern and its subsequent processing. Many 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 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 as a disadvantage. However, it is precisely this that is fully compensated by the following advantages of the material:

• elasticity - it is unlikely that defects will appear during storage, transportation, or installation;
• antistatic - the floor does not conduct electric current because it does not accumulate static electricity;
• uniformity of the pattern across all layers, which guarantees the preservation of the integrity and brightness of the pattern regardless of use;
• the difference in patterns - it can be embossed (which allows you to imitate natural materials) or printed;
• high resistance to wear - it will not wear out, will not fade and will not be damaged due to accidentally falling things or moving furniture;
• Duration of operation - warranty period is at least 10 years, subject to proper installation and sufficient care;
• ease of installation;
• ease of cleaning;
• the ability to choose among colors and imitation or even make your own order (the price, of course, will be higher).

In addition to the high price, among the disadvantages we can only note the requirements for the subfloor. But the only thing is that it should be even. This way the linoleum will lie more densely and no bumps will appear even with time of use.

IMPORTANT! The main thing is that the base of the floor is perfectly level, which is certainly checked and measured before laying heterogeneous linoleum.

When laying the coating, all the slightest bumps will become noticeable, which will lead to rapid wear of even heterogeneous linoleum. Many layers can largely smooth out this drawback of linoleums, but the likelihood of minor defects becoming much higher.

Thus, heterogeneous coating is one of the best, inexpensive floor coverings. This type of linoleum is easy to clean and 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.