Resilient flooring is a category of flooring made from materials that provide a combination of durability, comfort, and low maintenance. Commonly utilized materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, and linoleum, each offering unique characteristics that cater to various building needs. Resilient flooring systems are known for their density, non-absorbent nature, and pliant surfaces, making them ideal for comfortable walking experiences. Additionally, these flooring options require minimal upkeep, enhancing their appeal for residential and commercial spaces alike.
Types of Resilient Flooring in Building Construction
The choice of resilient flooring can vary significantly based on requirements, material availability, and specific use cases. Below, we explore the different types of resilient flooring that are commonly employed in building construction.
Vinyl Flooring
Materials and Properties
Vinyl flooring consists of several components, each contributing to the overall durability and functionality of the floor. The primary material, PVC, serves as the binder, enhancing the flooring’s resistance to wear and tear. The inclusion of plasticizers increases the flexibility of the vinyl, allowing for a resilient surface. Additionally, stabilizers help maintain the longevity of color and provide resistance against fading due to heat and light exposure.
Fillers
Fillers play a critical role in enhancing the bulk and thickness of vinyl flooring. These can be either natural or mineral-based, with mineral fillers often used to improve fire resistance. Natural fillers contribute to slip resistance, further enhancing safety in spaces where vinyl flooring is installed.
PVC Flooring Rolls
In India, PVC floor coverings are available in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 1.5mm to 4mm. Installation occurs over concrete surfaces, following the completion of plastering and painting. After laying the PVC floors, it is crucial to allow for 24 hours of undisturbed conditions to ensure proper adhesion. Cleaning is done with a wet cloth dipped in a mild soap solution.
Vinyl Sheet Flooring
Vinyl sheet flooring is characterized by its continuous finished surface with minimal joints, making it an ideal choice for areas where spills and bacterial growth are concerns, such as hospital operating rooms. This flooring can be either solid vinyl or backed with additional materials for enhanced durability.
Installation Methods
There are two primary methods for installing vinyl sheet flooring:
- Heat Welding: Involves melting a vinyl rod between the sheets, creating a seamless bond. This method requires specialized equipment and trained technicians.
- Chemical Welding: Uses solvents to melt the ends of vinyl sheets together. This approach is generally more economical than heat welding and can be executed on-site.
Vinyl Tile Flooring
Vinyl tile flooring offers versatility and durability, available in two main types:
- Solid Vinyl Tile: Known as homogeneous tiles, these contain a higher concentration of PVC, making them more resistant to abrasion and indentation. They feature a consistent appearance throughout their thickness.
- Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT): A more cost-effective option, VCT includes three types as per ASTM F 1066 standards:
- Type 1: Solid Color Tiles
- Type 2: Through Pattern Tiles
- Type 3: Surface Pattern Tiles
Rubber Flooring
Rubber flooring is crafted from natural rubber, often supplemented with various filling compounds. Due to the cost of natural rubber, this type of flooring tends to be more expensive.
Installation
Rubber flooring can be found in both tiles and sheets and must be installed on even surfaces by specialized professionals.
Types of Rubber Flooring
There are two categories of rubber flooring:
- Homogeneous Rubber Tile: Offers uniformity in color throughout the tile’s thickness.
- Laminated Rubber Tile: Features patterns and colors that are only present in the wear layer, providing aesthetic variety.
Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum flooring is made primarily from oxidized linseed oil derived from the flax plant, which is combined with various materials to achieve specific properties.
Primary Material and Composition
The composition includes:
- Natural resin for binding
- Powdered rock for flexibility
- Limestone for strength and durability
- Pigments and wood flour for color fastness
Installation Requirements
Before installing linoleum, the underlying surface must be clean, dry, and damp-proof. The linoleum sheets should be left unfolded for 2 to 3 days prior to cutting, and a special adhesive is necessary for proper bonding.
Cork Flooring
Cork flooring is made from the bark of cork oak trees, primarily grown in the Mediterranean region. The harvesting process occurs every nine years, ensuring sustainable sourcing.
Manufacturing Process
The bark is granulated, mixed with synthetic resins as binders, and then baked to create the final product. The quality of cork flooring is determined by several factors, including:
- The size and quality of granules
- The type and quantity of binders used
- The density of the final mix
Conclusion
Resilient flooring offers a variety of options tailored to different environments and needs, combining durability, comfort, and low maintenance. From vinyl and rubber to linoleum and cork, each type of flooring presents unique properties that make them suitable for specific applications. Understanding these options allows builders and homeowners to select the best flooring solutions for their spaces, ensuring long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing results.