The consumer of the construction market has long come to terms with the usual set of finishing materials. Fundamentally new solutions do not yet have mass distribution, so manufacturers are striving to extract the maximum profit from existing products. Floor coverings can be considered as one of the basic directions in the segment of finishing building materials. Here traditionally presented tiles, laminate, linoleum and various options for carpet.
It would seem that linoleum should have lost its relevance due to its cheap appearance, artificial origin and rather modest performance. However, it has strengths, including a low price, versatility and practicality. In addition, manufacturers do not want to miss the budget segment on the market and in every possible way improve the basic characteristics of linoleum. Models of coatings made under the laminate can be considered just as a tool to maintain the popularity of this material.
What is the feature of linoleum under the laminate?
The main distinguishing feature of such models is the texture, and sometimes the texture of the surface. In recent years, the model lines of finishing and facing materials are increasingly replenished with imitation series. That is, on the surface of a tile, sheet or panel, a texture with a natural or other familiar pattern is depicted. This can be a pattern of wood saw cut, metallic tint, stone texture, etc. In other words, acquiring linoleum as a laminate, you can recreate the effect of wood coating.
It is noteworthy that laminated panels, in turn, were assumed as a means of imitating traditional parquet. Therefore, linoleum in such series can be considered as a textured variation of parquet. But, of course, there are many differences, since the laminate has gained its unique features during its existence and today offers a wide range of design options. In this regard, the following question rightly arises: laminate or linoleum - which is better? Expert opinion does not imply a definite answer, since in different cases both solutions may be beneficial. For a clear understanding of what the difference is, these floors should be compared.
Laminate or linoleum - which is better?
Typically, floor coverings are compared according to two categories of characteristics - decorativeness and technical quality. You should start with the visual effect, since it is this property that distinguishes imitation linoleum. It must be said right away that both coatings are not completely natural, which determines the aesthetic imperfection of their texture. On the other hand, technologists have learned to make almost impeccable patterns on the surface, which are difficult to distinguish from natural ones. In this regard, the materials are comparable. However, when moving to a comparison of technical characteristics, the question posed earlier will be clarified a little: laminate or linoleum - which is better? Expert opinion notes that laminated panels are beneficial in terms of strength and reliability.
On the other hand, it is more profitable to purchase high-quality linoleum when decorating the kitchen space, dining room and hallway. This material is easier to wash, stack and do not mind throwing away, since it costs much less than a laminate. The latter is still different in that there is a certain proportion of natural wood in it, therefore, environmental safety is higher. However, good linoleum, depending on the manufacturing technology, can have minimal damage during operation.
Varieties of material
Simulation models adopted the classification inherent in ordinary linoleum. There are three categories of such coatings - these are residential models, semi-commercial and commercial options. The first group includes coatings with the lowest level of abrasion. But you should not be afraid of this, as manufacturers expect their durability for up to 10 years. Semi-commercial linoleum as a laminate is intended for use in public places where increased loads are not expected. It can be schools, libraries and hospitals. In this case, the requirements for abrasion are increasing, but the characteristics of linoleum are enough for a long service. The most reliable is considered commercial (industrial) linoleum, which has in its structure a thick substrate and a high-quality PVC film.
The nuances of choice
Of course, the main criterion is appearance, since it is this characteristic that distinguishes the material of this group. But do not forget that linoleum as a laminate should cope with loads and external influences. Therefore, it should initially provide for all the risks of operating the flooring. You may need to choose a model with improved water-repellent property, increased fire resistance and anti-slip effect.
Price issue
The originality of the appearance, of course, affected the cost of the material. The answer to the question of how much linoleum, styled as a laminate, costs, provides a wide range - an average of 300 to 700 rubles. for 1 m 2 . For comparison, it is worth noting that the cheapest coatings from the standard series can be estimated at 150-200 rubles. As the cost increases, the qualitative characteristics of the material increase accordingly.
Also, do not forget about such properties as the degree of abrasion, the presence of additional protective layers and water-repellent coatings. The most demanding consumers are undoubtedly interested in the question of how much linoleum with the best characteristics costs - again, the price range is quite wide, but on average they ask at least 500 rubles for such models. for 1 m 2 .
Reviews about linoleum under the laminate
Still, according to its main qualities, linoleum remains not the most durable and durable coating. This is evidenced by reviews. For example, owners note the loss of their former aesthetic effect, the presence of scratches that cannot be eliminated, the formation of scuffs and stretch marks. However, it all depends on the conditions under which linoleum is used. Reviews about household models are not so pessimistic. As practice shows, if you foresee all the threats to the flooring and select the material with the corresponding protective qualities, then there will be no reason for disappointment. As for the aesthetic merits of imitation under the laminate in the form of linoleum, they cause only admiration. Another thing is that the preservation of nice-looking drawings with a wood texture may not last as long as the manufacturers promise.
Conclusion
In an effort to improve the aesthetic qualities of the design of the premises, do not forget about the elementary strength of the flooring. In this regard, linoleum as a laminate or parquet board is no different from its analogues with a traditional texture. It is still easy to stack and maintain. But, unlike the same laminated planks or parquet, linoleum will not look just as beautiful in a living room. Still, this is a practical solution for the kitchen, hallway or public place. But it is impossible not to note the advantages of such coatings. This is perhaps the most affordable option, with an extensive range of stylistic solutions.