Learn : LINOLEUM : Linoleum floors Types of linoleum – Plain linoleum,Stamped or printed linoleum,Inlaid linoleum,Uses of linoleum, Thickness of linoleum

LINOLEUM

In it linseed oil is oxidized by exposure to air into a tough, rubber like substance which is then mixed with ground cork, wood flour, colouring matter and other ingredients. The resulting plastic material is pressed upon a backing of burlap. It is then thoroughly cured and seasoned by passing it through drying ovens to get linoleum which is used as floor covering for wood and concrete floors. After drying the whole surface is applied with transparent oil varnish.

Types of linoleum

Linoleum is of three types : plain, printed or stamped and inlaid. It is available in the form of tiles or as rolls 2.0 metre wide. Length of rolls is not less than 5.5 metre. overall thickness is 4.5, 3.2, 2.0 and 1.6 mm. Tiles are 228, 305, 457 mm square.

Plain linoleum :

Plain linoleum is of a uniform colour throughout its thickness which varies from 2 mm to 4.5 mm. It is available in a variety of shades. Thicker varieties of it known as battleship linoleum are well suited for heavy traffic.

Stamped or printed linoleum :

Stamped or printed linoleum has a pattern printed on it in oil paints. Its thickness varies from 1.25 mm to 2 mm. It is fit for use in case of light traffic only. The pattern wears off in time even though it is still serviceable but unattractive.

Inlaid linoleum

Inlaid linoleum has small units of linoleum of various colours and shapes arranged in patterns and prssed on a burlap back. Each unit has a constant colour throughout the entire thickness. As such the pattern lasts as long as the linoleum lats. These are of 2 mm to 3 mm thickness and are used extensively to give satisfactory uses of linoleum.

Uses of linoleum :

Suitable linoleum when properly laid lasts for many years.

Linoleum floors are durable and resist wearing.

Linoleum floors are resilient, quiet and comfortable.

Linoleum floors are hygienic and easy to maintain. These can be easily cleaned with soap. Excessive use of water or of strong soaps is injurious to linoleum floors. it swells due to moisture and is attacked by fungi. it is polished with wax polish.

Linoleum provides non-slippery floors.

These floors are economical and easy to install.

Thickness of linoleum  :

The following thicknesses of linoleum  are recommended for usage in the places noted against each :

4.5 mm           Magazines, Canteens, Corridors, Hotels, Restaurants, Departmental Stores, Public Buildings, Hospitals, Ships, Railway Coaches, etc. etc.

3.2 mm           Offices, Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes, Shops, Public Transport.

2.0 mm           Offices (small), Domestic rooms etc.

1.60 mm         Domestic rooms.

Linoleum is available both in tiles and full length rolls of about 15 to 30 metres.