To ensure that linoleum is laid on a perfectly smooth, even surface, an appropriate base coat is required. The correct choice of substrate guarantees not only an attractive appearance of the floor, but also the safety of its heat and sound insulation.
Linoleum is one of the most popular floor coverings, deservedly enjoying popular love for its high consumer qualities, uncomplicated laying technology and attractive appearance. But in order for linoleum to look good on the floor, provide thermal insulation and a long service life, laying of this material must be carried out on a specialized substrate. Having examined in detail which particular substrate is suitable for certain cases, the choice of a base coat for linoleum will be greatly facilitated.
Classic
The classic base for linoleum is a concrete screed - it provides an even, hard and durable coating. But a significant drawback of the concrete mixture is the long drying time - about 30 days and the possible feeling of “cold floors” if the laid linoleum does not have an internal insulated layer. In addition to concrete, an old plank coating can also act as a substrate if it does not have irregularities, delamination of boards, protruding hats of nails, because all these defects will necessarily appear through the surface of the new coating. Either laying plywood, or careful study and smoothing of all irregularities with putty will help smooth out these shortcomings and provide a smooth, even substrate based on old boards.
Heat and sound insulation
Natural, environmentally friendly material that provides perfect flatness of the floor for laying linoleum is a cork. Cork substrate guarantees good sound insulation, which is important in multi-storey buildings, reliably keeps heat, is a "breathing" material. But the significant disadvantages of cork substrates include the high cost and excessive softness, due to which the coating can be deformed under the weight of the furniture.
