Differences between homogeneous and heterogeneous linoleum

Linoleum is one of the most common floor coverings. It is used both for houses and apartments, and for public buildings. There are several classes of this coating, and the classes are also divided into varieties. Therefore, you first need to pay attention to the technical characteristics, class and type of coating, and only then to the design.

Types of linoleum

Among the main classes of linoleum we highlight:

• household: suitable for installation in apartments and houses, that is, in residential premises;
• commercial: used for premises with high load, that is, offices, clinics, schools, etc.;
• special: applicable in very heavy load conditions, for gyms, some technical rooms, etc.

If you are planning an office renovation, a commercial look is your best choice. However, it can also be used for a residential building. Its performance properties are much higher than household ones, and it will last longer.

On a note! It is quite possible to lay commercial linoleum in the apartment.

Commercial, in turn, is divided into homogeneous and heterogeneous. To find out how they differ, as well as calculate the advantages, you need to consider the technical characteristics of each.

What is homogeneous linoleum

Homogeneous (homo - one) linoleum is a single-layer coating. It consists of durable polyvinyl chloride without the addition of other substances. It only has an additional protective layer of flexible polyurethane.

The pattern in such linoleum is applied to the entire thickness of the surface. This contributes to low abrasion, as well as the possibility of restoration by grinding. There are classes 32–34 and 41–43 in production. That is, it can withstand heavy loads and is not intended for household use.

Characteristics of heterogeneous linoleum

Heterogeneous (hetero - many) linoleum is a multi-layer coating. Let's start from the bottom.

1. The first layer is the substrate. It is made of foamed polyvinyl chloride, and can also consist of jute or felt. During production, it is applied last, after the remaining layers have undergone heat treatment.
2. The second layer is the base. Consists of fiberglass. It, in turn, is impregnated with PVC paste, which is then retained in the pores of the fiberglass and is responsible for the wear resistance of the material.
3. Another layer of foamed PVC is applied to the fiberglass, which is also impregnated with paste.
4. This is followed by a layer with a decorative pattern. It is very thin and is applied to a layer of foamed PVC.
5. The final layer is the working layer. Consists of pure polyvinyl chloride. It is responsible for protecting the design and is highly wear-resistant.

During production, all layers (except for the substrate) undergo heat treatment, during which harmful substances evaporate and a pattern relief is formed.

The main differences between the two types

After studying the production technology and the main characteristics of both types, you can proceed to comparing these materials.This will help you choose the best option and navigate your purchase.

Important! When purchasing, ask for a quality certificate.

The technical characteristics are influenced primarily by the production method and the composition of the material. Based on the above, we can compare the differences in characteristics.

• The performance properties of homogeneous linoleum are higher. It can last up to 25 years with proper care and use, as well as regular polishing.
• The environmental friendliness of the two types is also different. Homogeneous material is safer, since it consists only of PVC, and various chemical additives are used to create heterogeneous linoleum.
• The thickness of the homogeneous material is less - 1.5-3 mm, while the sum of the heterogeneous layers is 4–6 mm.
• The wear resistance of homogeneous linoleum is higher. It is produced in classes intended for premises with increased load. This also makes it less abrasive.
• Heterogeneous linoleum has the property of depreciation, but homogeneous linoleum does not have this property.
• The single layer type has fewer design choices.
• Heterogeneous provides the opportunity to choose a cut of the required length, while the other type is sold mainly in rolls. It also provides a greater selection of widths.

As a result, we can say that the main differences between the types of linoleum under consideration are the production method, composition and performance properties.