Floor covering plays an important role in creating the interior
Equally important is the aesthetic appearance. After all, no matter how robust and reliable any coating, it can not fit in its style to the overall design of the apartment. Among the tasks of interior floor coverings can be divided into two main ones:
- visual extension of the space;
- creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort in the room.
The problem is only in the fact that each manufacturer claims that it is his cover better and preferable. So the deal is, what it is more suitable for your home is likely to have on their own.
Laminate or linoleum: it is better to choose the evaluation criteria
As in the process of renovation to make the right choice in favor of one or other floor coverings? It is necessary to consider all the advantages and disadvantages of each option, and then compare the most important features for you. So, consider laminate and linoleum consonant of this algorithm.
Which is better - a laminate or linoleum in an apartment can be determined by comparing the flooring of their main characteristics
Main characteristics of the laminate
Laminate - a floor covering which is composed of two layers. The polymer used as the base layer or a decorative paper. This gives the end product the strength and stability.
Among the advantages of the laminate may be mentioned:
- a high level of strength and durability. Such a coating can withstand heavy loads and difficult enough susceptible to mechanical damage;
- use only eco-friendly materials for the manufacture of laminate makes it completely safe for human health;
- Fire, as well as the ability to withstand significant changes in temperature allows the use of this material in a residential area;
- installation to be carried out, is extremely simple. Most products are equipped with special locks, designed for bonding between panels;
- It does not require special care. It is enough to wipe with a damp soft cloth;
Laminate is not in vain considered to be one of the most popular floor coverings of modern times
- with due care and the absence of too harsh environments laminate flooring can serve for many years;
- the variety of colors allows you to choose a laminate that is suitable in almost any interior. A variety of textures and shades mimic the natural wood, perfectly replace him;
- laminate cost is not too high when compared with many other floor coverings.
But in this seemingly flawless coverage as laminate has its drawbacks:
- "Relations" laminate and water can hardly be called friendly. Moisture has a negative impact on this type of coverage, and over time leads him into disrepair;
- preparation for laying laminate involves complete alignment of the subfloor. Without this procedure to put the coating does not make sense;
- If during the installation were errors or inaccuracies, after some time, the laminate will let you know about this characteristic swelling and creaking;
- cheap to buy only low-quality material. On tested and certified products will need to be spent.
Laminate flooring is often used as an alternative to the floors made of natural wood
Main characteristics of linoleum
Linoleum - a few more old and familiar stuff for us. With him across virtually everyone and it is a floor covering in particular needs no introduction. Nevertheless, we consider all its pros and cons, to compare them with the characteristics of the laminate.
Advantages of using linoleum:
- unfussy and versatile material that is suitable for use in virtually any environment and facilities;
- commercially available versions of linoleum, made exclusively from natural materials, and therefore absolutely harmless;
- coating installation is so simple that to hire professionals for the job simply does not make sense. Anyone can easily cope with this task on their own;
- Linoleum does not rot and does not break even under prolonged exposure to water;
- It provides additional sound and heat insulation floor;
- as simple to clean. Cleaning of such a coating is elementary and does not require significant costs;
Modern linoleum floor leads to the bright element in the interior
A brief comparison of the characteristics of linoleum and laminate
So it is better at home, laminate or linoleum? Based on the foregoing, we carry out a comparison of the properties of these materials.
Laminate can bear much more load than linoleum. Damage it is much more difficult, and service life of the respective departure from the laminate is much longer. But on the water resistance is undoubtedly the leader linoleum. His, unlike laminate not scare any amount of water.
Thermal insulation characteristics of these materials are very similar. They are well retain heat, protecting premises from additional cooling. Easier to care for linoleum than laminate. After all, the ability to apply a variety of chemical means can not just come in handy when it comes to sex sites subject to special pollution.
Laminate and quality linoleum have approximately the same value
According to the complexity of installation, both these coatings are quite simple in styling. A significant difference only in the fact that for laminate installation pre-equalization required base. Talking about the features of styling, it is also worth noting that the laminate, which is fastened locking connection can always be disassembled to correct defect, and then assemble again. Of course, in the case of linoleum this option is not available.
And one and the other option is excellent "get along" with the underfloor heating system, while keeping the same amount of color and style solutions.
Useful advice! In the case of installation of underfloor heating systems, turn your attention to the composition of linoleum that you plan to put on top. Only natural material will not release when heated harmful substances.
Laying laminate - work is not complicated, it can be done with their own hands
The cost of laminate and linoleum: what material is profitable
None of these floor coverings are not considered to be prohibitively expensive. However, prices can differ significantly between themselves and within the species of the group. Much depends on the producer, characteristics of this particular product class and type of coating.
Compared with laminate, linoleum cheaper material. Its minimum price is 1.5-2 times lower than that of a simple laminate. This is due to the synthetic nature of its origin. Interestingly, the price indicators comparing the average quality of the coatings, we have already another difference - about 2.5 times. Of course, the laminate will be more expensive.
Even more noticeable difference among the expensive materials: vinyl laminate price per m2 starts from 1200 rubles. While linoleum respective level of quality will cost you about 450 rubles / m².
Despite the fairly large difference in price, say unambiguously what material to buy more profitable - it is difficult. After all, a lot depends on your wishes and the goals you are pursuing.
Especially popular for the laminate is a pattern which exactly reproduces oak texture
Vinyl laminate: advantages over other types of
Vinyl laminate has many advantages when compared with other types of this coverage. This is directly related to its composition and manufacturing method. Consider a few of its main advantages:
- the operational life of the vinyl laminate is much more than the usual. Some manufacturers offer up to 25-year warranty on their products;
- It has even higher strength and tolerance to mechanical damage. Virtually any load can not leave your mark on it;
- water resistance of the material is so great that its styling is made possible even in the bathroom;
- vinyl laminate safely tolerate exposure to most chemicals;
- It has a high flame resistance;
- pleasantly pleased abundance of color and texture solutions. You can also buy vinyl laminate with different patterns;
- exceptional thermal insulation properties of the vinyl material ensure the house warm and comfortable flooring;
- maintenance and installation of manufactured in a standard way.
Vinyl laminate surfaces organically combines aesthetics, practicality and duration of operation
It is difficult to argue that the vinyl laminate is completely environmentally friendly and also safe for health, such as natural wood or tile. However, without external influence PVC is inert and does not pose any danger to humans. Therefore, its use is permitted even in a variety of medical and nursery schools.
Selecting and laying vinyl laminate
Vinyl laminate looks very similar to the classic, but has a slightly different structure. The structure of panels includes silica sand, compacted reinforcing mesh and vinyl. As used decorative outer surface layer which may be virtually any pattern decorated by printing. To extend the service life image pattern is applied on top of the protective layer, which consists of polyurethane lacquer with the addition of aluminum oxide. The thickness of the coating does not exceed 4 mm, and the wear resistance refers to the 43 class. Castle vinyl laminate - one of the most popular materials for finishing the apartment.
Depending on how the laminate is attached, such variants can be distinguished:
- self-adhesive laminate;
- castle vinyl laminate.
Installation of locking laminate vinyl
In the first case the difference is that the coating is a special smart ribbon that protrudes from the base and is an adhesive tape. In the second case, using the usual mix of Click, which is represented in almost all classical laminates. A little later we will look at whether it is possible to lay on the linoleum laminate vinyl-based, or better to give preference to the traditional substrate.
The cost of such flooring is quite high, so it is not always afford it, but life is quite pays off this modest disadvantage of vinyl laminate. If you do decide to installation of this type cover, the video laying vinyl laminate will be for you a great help in the work.
Quartz-vinyl laminate
A relatively new, but already popular - quartz-vinyl material. What makes it different from all the others? Primarily - three-layer structure which provides an improvement of practically all the technical characteristics of the coating.
Quartz-vinyl laminate is referred to the class of 43, and its price is quite high in comparison with other types of coatings. And this is not surprising, because between the two outer layers of each element, there is also the so-called filling of the quartz chips. This manufacturing technique provides maximum strength and stability of the material, but at the same time affects the price.
Vinyl laminate combines the most important properties of the floor covering: the beauty of the wood pattern, durability, moisture resistance, ease of styling
In addition, you will have to pay for another nice addition - processing the outer layer of the coating composition of the disinfectant. This happens through the silver ionization, which leads to a significant increase in prices, and at the same time and provides maximum protection for the laminate. According to research professionals, the number of bacteria residing on a surface that has been treated in this way is reduced by 2 times.
How to put the quartz-vinyl laminate
One of the most important arguments, evidence in favor of the particular type of coverage - the ability to mount it on any type of a perfect foundation. Regardless of whether it will be a tile, linoleum or old concrete floor, you can easily place a quartz-vinyl laminate top.
Related article:
Step by step instructions laying laminate by hand. Tips for installing a new floor in the apartment for a beginner. Materials, training base, the rules laying: step by step photo work, video.
The algorithm involves carrying out the following actions:
- thoroughly clean the old paint from any kind of dust and dirt;
- processed using putty all the irregularities and defects;
- spend laying laminate.
Quartz-vinyl laminate has a phenomenal strength and durability
Useful advice! Before starting the installation process, leave the new covering in the room for at least 2 days. This will allow him to adapt to the humidity and air temperature.
Laying quartz-vinyl locking laminate produced in three standard steps:
- Interfacing of the laminate panel under an angle that is needed.
- Fastening elements with each other using locks.
- Compacting the laminate using a special rubber roller.
Laying quartz-vinyl laminate begin, as a rule, from the corner of the room. With the knife elements separated from one another and on the inner side is applied a special glue. Is it possible to lay laminate linoleum in this case? No, it's too demanding and expensive material, in order to save on the basis of it.
Quartz-vinyl laminate - durable material for flooring
After reading about the quartz-vinyl laminate reviews, you make sure that this coverage is worth its price. After all, the combination of ease of styling and excellent technical characteristics of the material gives it an undeniable advantage over many others, including linoleum.
Useful advice! Buy quartz-vinyl laminate can be in almost any building supermarkets. But do not over-rely on the words of consultants. Be sure to pay attention to the marking and a certificate for the goods.
Is it possible to lay laminate linoleum
The first and natural response to the question whether it is possible to lay laminate over the old linoleum - genuine surprise. Why is all you need to do? After all the recommendations as one say about the complete dismantling of the old pavement and holding floor leveling. Nevertheless, sometimes the old linoleum leave as backing, Which is designed to absorb sound and create additional insulation. However, it should be borne in mind that this is possible only subject to compliance with all the requirements of linoleum and regulations, and are not very great age (up to 15 years from date of manufacture).
Laying laminate is quite simple that the installation could easily run a single person without relevant experience
Using this method, you can significantly save on the purchase of cork or any other substrate. Linoleum he will fulfill all these necessary functions, creating an additional "barrier" between you and your neighbors. In addition, significantly reduced heat loss.
How to lay laminate linoleum: Is it possible to do it yourself?
In order to laminate, laid his hands on top of the old linoleum, you qualitatively served his entire service life, you must heed the following tips:
- on the floor laid with linoleum should be no irregularities diameter greater than 2 mm. This applies to the pits, bumps and all sorts of differences;
- Before laying the laminate must be prepared foundation - thoroughly wash linoleum and let it dry completely;
- between coating layers can be laid an additional layer of heat and sound-proofing material;
- picking up the insulation layer, pay attention to the fact that the thickness was 2 mm. Positioning the material should be across the direction in which in the future you will be putting the board.
laminate manufacturers did their best to blow it does not cause much trouble
Useful advice! Before starting work, check for loose linoleum to the floor surface. Otherwise correct such flaws will be difficult after laying the laminate, and sometimes even impossible.
In light of this information, you can draw the following conclusion: Laying laminate and linoleum possible. However, you should definitely take into account the state of the old floor. In some cases, it would be wise to fully dismantle it and level the floor by means of ties.
Useful advice! Before bed laminate old coating - glance under linoleum. It does not appear beneath variety of fungi, mold and other unwanted microorganisms?
As a conventional backing accepted use under laminate flooring made of PVC. Attaching the plastic panels are very easy and allows you to get a smooth and solid foundation for laying laminate. If we talk about what is best - PVC laminate or tile as a final coating, the undeniable will win laminate. At least because of its expensive and aesthetic appearance.
Laminate - a practical solution to a difficult problem in selecting a floor covering
Linoleum under laminate: Photo examples
We have already dealt with the question of whether you can put laminate linoleum. However, this is not the only thing that can unite these two very different at first glance, material. Buy Linoleum under laminate - is to combine the most suitable quality characteristics of the coating with the pleasant design for you.
Part of the difficulty lies in the fact that spending time on an endless search for a suitable shade is simply no way. To help the modern buyers rush to online shopping. Photos and prices Linoleum under laminate is available in brochure in large quantities. On what basis to choose the flooring?
Decide on the colors and textures will help you three simple tips from the experts:
Tip 1. The color of the linoleum on the photo does not always coincide with a touch of the real product. And because of this situation, there are only two choices - go and see vending option before purchase or accept the fact that the plus / minus on the floor tone the product will be different.
Qualitative linoleum under the laminate is able to replace more expensive coating and capricious
Tip 2. Characteristics and the price of linoleum under the laminate are completely dependent on its type. Therefore, it is useful to additionally ask about all the features of this type of coverage. Consider, in what kind of room and a service life you want to buy linoleum.
Tip 3. Ideal - to see samples before purchasing. Of course, making a purchase in the online store it is unlikely, however, this method can only allow you to get the most accurate idea of how it will look your floor next some years.
Useful advice! To check the quality of the sample bend it in half, and then check carefully. The appearance of any kind of cracks - evidence of substandard products.
Choosing Linoleum under laminate, you can not only save on the material, but also facilitate the laying of the coating and subsequent care for him
Laminate or linoleum: summing up
And yet, what to give preference: linoleum or laminate? What's the best in the kitchen, and that the bed in the room? Having considered a number of factors for and against both materials, as well as several varieties of the laminate, which differ in their properties, let's summarize.
The issue of poverty of color or texture making is not relevant for any of the materials. An infinite number of options and you can easily find exactly the color and pattern that will have the most to your liking.
If we talk about the economy and the impact of coverage on human health, there is an undeniable wins the laminate. Although both of these materials is hardly exemplary, laminate still has a deleterious effect to a lesser extent.
In the laminate has a rather extensive list of advantages that distinguish it from other floor coverings
One of the most controversial points - the service life of the material. It is difficult to give a definite answer, as it all depends on the quality of the coating, as well as its operating environment. Although traditionally linoleum is considered to be a very durable material, certain types of laminate can serve longer.
Certain difficulties may arise at the stage of care laminate. His fear of water, as well as all kinds of chemicals makes it difficult to apply to both the kitchen and bathroom. But in this matter linoleum benefits from its simplicity. Continuous web without joints and transitions easily reacts to moisture and cleaning detergents.
By thermal and acoustic insulation, these two materials provide relatively equal protection, which is largely dependent on the layer thickness.
Advantages and disadvantages laminate forcing buyers to carefully weigh all the "pros and cons" of the laying of flooring
Anyway, what kind of coverage prefer in your own apartment - can be solved only by you. Rely on your own taste and preferences, refer to the advice of experts. Additionally, you can get acquainted with - which is better, laminate or linoleum. Perhaps the experience of others will be of some use to you.
