Commercial linoleum: what is it and where is it used?

With the development of modern technology, the embodiment of any design ideas is becoming more real and easy. Linoleum is very popular among different segments of the population, which since its invention has only been enhanced by improving the quality and diversity of this universal flooring.

Commercial linoleum has increased rigidity and differs from non-commercial (household) or semi-commercial greater durability. In addition, commercial linoleum necessarily has a fire safety certificate - KM-2 (this is the requirement of the Ministry of Emergency Situations to all premises with an evacuation plan).

Industrial linoleum, like any other coating, has both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include:

1. Material naturalness;
2. High wear resistance;
3. Rich selection of designs (colors and patterns);
4. Anti-slip function;
5. Sound absorption ability;
6. Resistance to burning;
7. High moisture resistance;
8. Low price (compared with the same parquet, laminate or carpet).

On the minuses can be mentioned only in comparison with household linoleum. Compared to homework, it costs more and is more difficult to install - you have to ask for help from professionals. That's all the negative characteristics of industrial linoleum.

Technical characteristics of this type of coating have certain differences. Below are listed General parameters for all types of commercial linoleum:

• Base height - from 0.7 to 1 mm;
• The thickness of the protective film is from 2 to 4 millimeters;
• The weight of natural linoleum depends on various technical parameters, on average, from 3 to 5 kg per square meter;
• The minimum sound absorption rate is 10 Decibels;
• High resilience to chemicals;
• Wear resistance class - 41-43;
• Operational period - from 15 to 20 years;
• Webs 2, 3 and 4 meters wide (standard for industrial species).

Commercial specifications include the following definitions - non-flammable, antistatic, wear-resistant and acoustic.

Acoustic coating has a foam base, which absorbs the sound of steps. This type is ideal for hospitals, libraries or educational institutions.

An antistatic coating is produced with interspersed carbon filaments - they dissipate static electricity, it is advisable to use it in rooms with various office equipment and electrical equipment.

Natural, non-flammable anti-slip linoleum is perfect for kindergartens, medical institutions and other public places where increased safety is required.

Classes of industrial coatings determine where they are best used:

• Class 41 possesses low wear resistance (only in comparison with classes 42 and 43) and is intended for rooms such as boutiques, service centers or small printing houses (where they mainly work sitting and use light vehicles, such as cars or trolleys). This class can also be laid in a residential apartment, in a corridor or in a hall in a country house.
• Class number 42 in multi-purpose rooms or small warehouses, and №43 - in production shops and large warehouse.

Based on the specific characteristics of commercial linoleum is used:

1. In chemical laboratories (due to resistance to chemicals);
2. In gyms and fitness clubs (with anti-slip and shock absorption functions);
3. In kindergartens and medical institutions (eco-friendly and safe material);
4. In factories (anti-flammability and a high degree of non-abrasion).

Commercial linoleum is presented in two forms - homogeneous and heterogeneous. The main difference is in the number of layers and sets the tone for all other differences - the homogeneous type of linoleum flooring consists of a single, completely homogeneous and painted throughout the thickness of the layer obtained by the method of continuous pressing. Its thickness does not exceed 3 mm.

The heterogeneous variant is multilayered - the fiberglass used in its production gives additional strength, PVC coating is applied over the fiberglass, on which various patterns or drawings are printed. And, finally, the last layer is applied transparent film (polyurethane), which performs protective functions. The thickness of heterogeneous linoleum can reach 7 millimeters.

To increase the soundproofing and damping possibilities, a layer of foamed polyvinyl chloride is applied over the glass fiber, and a layer of painted polyvinyl chloride is applied on top of it. A homogeneous species is almost impossible to find on sale - due to the low demand for it it is rarely produced, as it is inferior to heterogeneous in almost all parameters, and the difference in cost is almost insignificant.

Coverage size is one of the most important parameters of choice when buying linoleum. Based on the purpose of the premises you need to choose a certain size (width and thickness) of commercial coverage. Industrial linoleums are available in widths of up to five meters., although the width of natural linoleum varies in the range of 1.5-2.6 meters. In the presence of a fabric layer (substrate), the width is from 1.5 to 3 meters (since the fabric base is subject to greater deformation), but if the base is foamed polyvinyl chloride - the maximum width can freely reach 5 meters (with a minimum one and a half).

The length of the roll varies from 6 to 60 meters. In order to approximately calculate the required amount of coverage, take as a basis the maximum length and width of the room and add 10 cm of margin. In the presence of special equipment calculation will be the most accurate and financially profitable. By the way, when choosing dimensions, pay attention also to the joints, especially when purchasing figured flooring. As for the coating thickness - higher room permeability (and therefore the load on the floor) the thicker the protective layer is required.

The color palette of industrial linoleum is very rich, even in standard catalogs, to say nothing of the opportunity to order an individual design. Linoleum can perfectly imitate natural wood, marble, leather, laminate, parquet, granite tiles. The color range varies from delicate pastel to strong and bright shades. Black and white flooring are also on sale.

Linoleum looks very fascinating with 3D effect - they will revive any, the most boring workplace. True, all this splendor will not be so cheap, but the effect is worth it, especially since the linoleum coating is one of the most durable of all kinds. In any case, if you need an extraordinary interior design - linoleum will provide it at the best price, compared to any other types of coatings.

After reviewing the technical characteristics of commercial linoleum and determine the size, do not rush to make a purchase - first you still need to make sure the quality of the product. The acquisition of quality material depends on several factors:

• Reputation of the manufacturer - get acquainted with the reviews of consumers who have already used the linoleum of this company;
• Certificates of compliance with state standards - always require documents when purchasing any quantity, their list includes: fire safety certificate, sanitary-epidemiological certificate and a document on the quality provided by the manufacturer;
• Check the cut - the top layer should be thick enough, otherwise the coating will not last long;
• Slightly remember linoleum with your hands - quality material is not deformed;

• Bright pattern with clear contours - a sign of good quality;
• Bold shine is typical for poor-quality products - choose matte flooring;
• Run your fingernail over the top layer - there should be no scratches or dents on the film;
• By bending the material, you can be convinced of the quality - if a whitish stripe appears, then there is an excess of lime in the composition, which means that after a while the linoleum will become stained;
• High price is not a guarantee of quality - try to buy linoleum in proven stores or directly from the manufacturer.

As for the documents, KM-2 (fire safety certificate) is mandatory, without it you simply cannot use the material for commercial purposes, and it is reasonable to demand a sanitary-hygienic certificate if you are going to use linoleum in a medical institution or for kindergarten.

Quality certificate, according to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, not a required document, but its voluntary submission speaks of the company's responsibility and the good quality of its products.

The soundproofing function is not particularly useful in a noisy factory, or for which it may be necessary to use a shock absorbing property in a warehouse - it is not too clear.

Commercial linoleum has a very high resistance, including mechanical and chemical effects. It is very unpretentious in operation and does not require any complex or special care. But some rules should be observed:

• As a daily care it’s enough just to walk around with a broom or vacuum cleaner;
• During general cleaning, use a damp cloth with a minimum amount of mild detergent (or a mild soap solution);
• To clean out stubborn stains, drip kerosene or gasoline on a cloth and gently wipe the place of contamination;
• To remove green or iodine stains, strictly locally use a few drops of camphoric alcohol;
• Do not wash the glossy finish with hot water - it will make it matte;
• Regular rubbing with wax or polymer mastic is an indispensable condition for the care of a homogeneous type of coating, although it will be useful in the case of a heterogeneous coating.

For cleansing a large area using a rotary machine with discoid nozzles, which are made of synthetic materials with the addition of the smallest abrasive particles.After machine rotor cleaning, it is necessary to dry polish and (preferably) apply a plastic film that will give additional resistance to dirt and small scratches, as well as refresh and improve the visual quality and brightness of the floor.

Commercial linoleums, as a rule, are produced with classic, restrained and strict patterns, although the colors can be both muted and bright colors. So to choose the design of the floors for your company will not be difficult. But if you need an extraordinary design, you will have to work hard and search for the right materials or save time by placing an individual order with the manufacturer.

Here are some tips on how to beautifully decorate the floors in the interior based on the specifics of the premises:

• Registration of kindergarten psychologists recommend performing in calm, muffled tones, since the child’s psyche is easily excitable.To do this, suitable eco-friendly linoleums with anti-slip function (for greater safety of children), with a pattern under natural wood or just plain, for example, terracotta hue. But in the bathroom you can lay a 3D-coating with the image of water and goldfish.

• For the original floor decoration in the confectionery A layering in the form of a chocolate bar is suitable, and along the edges (along the walls) you can lay a linoleum of golden colors (in theory, you should have something like an unpacked chocolate bar - for greater palatability and reality, it’s worth spending on the 3D version). Or you can install linoleum tiles with different patterns - berries, cakes, marmelades and other sweets. The main thing is to make the composition correctly so that it is not too bright, colorful and sharp and does not tire the eyes of the personnel working at the enterprise.

• In the hospital It is recommended to use a noise-canceling type of coating only in muted, soothing shades. Although more vivid and cheerful colors are suitable for children's departments. For example, the soundproofing linoleum of a gently green hue with daisies will have a calming effect on the psyche of children and the medical staff, and at the same time it will be bright enough so that children do not get bored.

• For shopping and children's entertainment centers An excellent option would be 3D linoleums with a pattern matched to the theme of the room. True, 3D coverage is far from cheap, but take a look at the design from the point of view of investment - an extraordinary, interesting interior will attract visitors again and again, which, of course, will also affect your income.

• For fitness club It is recommended to choose a single-color shock-absorbing coating that will not distract attention from training, but here in the showers you can lay water-repellent linoleum with a water pattern or 3D linoleum with the image of dolphins frolicking in water.

• For other types of premises (banks, warehouses, factories, and so on) are more than enough standard options, which are represented in the catalogs of almost all stores. Let's take the same banks - the main condition for the design of the design in their case is to convince the client of their stability and reliability, with which the plain linoleum of strict shades will perfectly cope.

Review the types of commercial linoleum, see the following video.