ᐅ Linoleum kitchen flooring, available as click-lock planks or rolled sheets

Created on: 8 May 2015 13:34
S
Sonnenanbeter
Hello Forum,

We want to install linoleum flooring with underfloor heating in our kitchen in our new build. However, it is only about 15sqm (160 sqft).

My husband only knew linoleum as sheet material, as it was installed that way in his parents’ house. During our research at specialty stores, we were only offered so-called click-together tiles, similar to laminate flooring. One dealer told me that it should be installed as a floating floor, while another said the tiles need to be glued down.
The fact is, the floor should stay in place for quite a long time—let’s say at least 20 to 30 years.

What is also unclear to us is what happens with the seams in these click-together tiles, since the floor is not heat-welded together like sheet linoleum. That means water could potentially penetrate the seams during mopping, drips, etc., and we definitely want to avoid those unsightly "swelling" issues like with cheap laminate floors in rental apartments.

Does anyone have experience with this and can offer advice?

We plan to do the installation ourselves, similar to how we have laid wooden floors, as my husband has carpentry experience with floor installation.

Thank you all!
S
Sonnenanbeter
14 May 2015 23:18
Thanks for the tip.

Also the coating—I’ll make sure to pay attention to that.
EveundGerd14 May 2015 23:19
Sonnenanbeter schrieb:
Hello,
Since I specifically asked about linoleum (a natural product), the question about vinyl does not arise. I did not ask about that.

Sorry, I forgot to add an important detail: The issue with water-soluble adhesive applies similarly to linoleum, with an additional restriction: Linoleum is more vulnerable to mechanical stress from, for example, chairs, due to residual moisture.

How long the drying takes depends on the residual moisture of the screed.

As always, the choice of flooring is a matter of personal taste.

Regarding plasticizers in vinyl: These are found in cheap vinyl products, not in specialty stores. I find the plastic coverings in many new buildings much worse. It's ultimately a matter of personal preference.
S
Sonnenanbeter
14 May 2015 23:21
EveundGerd schrieb:
Sorry, I forgot to include a crucial detail: The issue with water-soluble adhesive applies similarly to linoleum, with an additional limitation: linoleum is initially more vulnerable to mechanical stress from, for example, chairs, due to residual moisture.

How long the drying takes depends on the residual moisture in the screed.

Ah, okay, now I understand.
B
Bieber0815
14 May 2015 23:52
EveundGerd schrieb:
Regarding plasticizers in vinyl: These are found in cheap vinyl products, not in specialized stores. I find the plastic coating on many new buildings much worse.

I'm not so sure about the first point (and what exactly do you mean by specialized stores? In my opinion, only specific products can be evaluated). Regarding the second point, just to clarify(!): Are you referring to polystyrene on the exterior, or dispersion paint on the interior, or what exactly do you mean by "plastic coating"?
EveundGerd15 May 2015 21:41
When I refer to goods from a specialist dealer, I definitely do not mean the often overpriced second-grade products offered at home improvement stores.

Many of the items available there can also be obtained as first-grade goods from building material suppliers or the appropriate specialist retailers. In many cases, at a lower price!

Although "plastic sheeting" is not an exact term (and admittedly quite simplistic), an external thermal insulation composite system (ETICS) is not more environmentally friendly than, for example, vinyl or laminate.

Plasticizers in vinyl flooring are no longer the norm but rather the exception.
B
Bieber0815
15 May 2015 22:45
EveundGerd schrieb:
Plasticizers in vinyl flooring are no longer the norm but rather the exception.

How can this be identified in the market by the specific product? How can this be ensured in turnkey construction if you are not purchasing the flooring yourself? Are there any certifications or similar marks?

Regarding ETICS (external thermal insulation composite systems)... I would distinguish here between ecological concerns and the desire for a healthier lifestyle. The former is difficult in our civilization, but the latter can definitely be achieved. And in my opinion, what really matters is primarily what you bring into the house.