Homogeneous and heterogeneous linoleum - which one to choose

Often when choosing linoleum can be found mention of heterogeneous and homogeneous types of this coating. But what this means is far from clear to everyone. And, most importantly, how does this affect the quality characteristics of the coating itself? Consider both types, to understand which one is better to choose.

The prefix "homo" already speaks for itself, meaning equal, homogeneous. This is a homogeneous chemical composition of the coating (PVC), consisting of only one layer.

This linoleum is very durable and elastic. The color palette is quite extensive, but the patterns are monotonous: marble, specks, pure shade. Therefore, it is often laid in areas with high traffic. Even if in some places the coating is worn out more, the pattern will remain unchanged.

In homogeneous linoleum, there is a directional pattern (along the entire canvas) andchaotic. The latter is less branded.

This coating has several layers (4-6):

1. protective covering;
2. decorative layer;
3. canvas layer (PVC foam);
4. supporting layer (fiberglass, but may be missing);
5. substrate (back layer).

In addition, each of them performs its functions in this "pie". Sometimes 6 layers are added for special purpose linoleum (anti-slip, antistatic, etc.). But this layer may be absent, and a special component is contained in some other. For example, for anti-slip linoleum it is added to the upper, protective layer.

Let's take a closer look at each of them:

WITHThe bottom layer of heterogeneous linoleum - the substrate - is a foamed PVC.

Foam can be:

• mechanical,
• chemical.

It is she who is mainly responsible for the sound insulation of the coating. In the case of mechanical foam, the structure of the cells is connected (as in the case of a sponge), while in the chemical one it is closed. Therefore, the chemical foam absorbs water better, more durable, comfortable when walking, the coating straightens the resulting dents for 5 hours.

Along with PVC foam, they also use felt or jute.

The next layer - the reference - consisting of fiberglass. This is a kind of skeleton of the entire coating, to which all other layers are attached. But in some heterogeneous linoleum fiberglass may be absent.

Canvas - another layer of foamed PVC. In consequence, it is applied decorative coating. Passing through the oven, this layer foams simultaneously with the back layer, giving the linoleum sound and heat insulation properties.

The decorative layer is applied with special cylinders. Unlike the homogeneous type, heterogeneous can have a different graphic pattern. It can be all sorts of geometric patterns, imitations of other floor coverings, such as parquet or stone. And due to the ability to add special substances (inhibitors) to PVC, it is possible to create volumetric patterns.

And last, the top layer - a protective coating. This is a clear layer of pure PVC. It is he who protects the coating from abrasion, possessing high wear resistance. Its thickness directly affects the duration of the operation of linoleum.

In the more expensive, commercial linoleum, manufacturers put on top of PVC another protective layer of polyacryl or polyurethane.This porous coating relatively increases the wear resistance of the protective layer, does not require special treatment after laying linoleum, and is easy to clean. Sometimes the polyurethane layer is additionally treated with ultraviolet light, making the protective coating more durable.

Laying linoleum is quite simple, even a beginner can handle it.

It is difficult to say which linoleum is better. Their wear resistance is about the same.

Heterogeneous linoleum is more durable, has noise and heat insulation, is more comfortable when walking, and a huge selection of decorative patterns allows you to choose the flooring to any interior style.

But homogeneous linoleum is more elastic, allowing you to bend the edges around the perimeter of the room, making the floor more protected from the penetration of moisture and bacteria. It is also recommended to lay it in rooms with a high risk of mechanical damage (falling sharp and heavy objects).

Sometimes the width of the room also plays a big role. Rolls of heterogeneous linoleum are wider (1.5-4 m), while homogeneous ones are only 1.5-2 m. This can be a decisive factor when buying if you plan to lay linoleum without joints.