How to choose linoleum in the hallway

Linoleum is an affordable, easy-to-install and low-maintenance floor covering. It has a wide range of different colors and types.

Despite the variety of other floor coverings, this is the most popular in Russia. In addition to the listed positive properties, it is soft, elastic and not subject to cracking, unlike wooden and ceramic analogues.

However, a large selection of varieties confronts the consumer with the problem of choosing a specific material. After all, this coating is purchased with the expectation of a long period of operation, which means that taking into account all the details will determine its fate for many years to come.

Let's try to figure out how to choose linoleum for the corridor.

What type of linoleum is suitable for a hallway

To choose the right coating, you need to take into account several characteristics of the material.

Thickness

First of all, let's consider such a parameter as thickness, which is closely related to the number of layers.

• The thinnest type is homogeneous, consisting of only one layer (up to 3 mm) with a through pattern. Due to the latter, it does not wear out, so it is perfect for such a homey and walkable place as the hallway.
• The thickest, up to 6 mm, is heterogeneous, consisting of many layers.As a rule, it is used for flooring in rooms with high traffic and expected significant loads. Therefore, in most cases, its use in the hallway is impractical.
• The middle option is mixed, consisting of a homogeneous layer, PVC, non-woven fiberglass and polyurethane film. Suitable for home use, but rarely used in hallways, more often in halls and living rooms.

Compound

It is also important to take into account such a criterion as the material of manufacture.

For example, there is natural linoleum, which contains jute fabric, limestone powder, pine resin, linseed oil, cork and wood flour.

It is antibacterial and anti-allergenic, so it can be used in hospitals and kindergartens. It is also used in homes, but it does not tolerate humidity well. This means you can’t put wet shoes on it after a walk in the rain or snow.

The most suitable option is a polyvinyl chloride coating. It is durable, does not rot and can withstand almost anything.

IMPORTANT! The only weak point of PVC is aggressive chemical cleaning agents; do not use them when cleaning.

How to choose the color of linoleum for the hallway

From an aesthetic point of view, it is worth choosing something that suits the overall interior design.

However, from a practical point of view, it is necessary to take into account that dust and dirt will be brought in from the street every day, so it is recommended to choose a coating of dark or semi-dark colors.

As for the pattern, for the corridor it is best to opt not for monochrome, but for a motley, heterogeneous pattern, since scratches and stains are almost inevitable. And in this case they will not be noticeable.

Useful tips for choosing linoleum in the hallway

In order to avoid the mistake of buying low-quality coating, follow the following recommendations.

• Pay attention to the smell of linoleum. If it is, it means it contains additional cost-reducing additives that negatively affect quality and are harmful to health. It doesn’t matter whether it’s natural or PVC, it shouldn’t smell like anything.
• Select the width so that there is some margin left. At the same time, it is recommended to take one canvas for one room, so that there are no problems with adjusting the pattern. Moreover, joints tend to accumulate dirt.
• Do not buy coating from street markets, as low temperatures have a bad effect on it. And besides, it’s easier to check quality in stores.
• If linoleum is made according to all the rules, in compliance with the correct proportions, it must have the appropriate markings and a certificate, which the seller must provide to you upon request.
• Be sure to inspect the coating before purchasing it in rolled form. There should be no waves or bumps on it, as well as traces of delamination.