Aesthetic appeal and good performance characteristics, a variety of design and color solutions, safety and durability of use make linoleum a separate group of modern floor coverings, and the ideal ratio of high quality and affordable prices makes its use almost ubiquitous.
Methods for connecting linoleum
As a versatile floor covering, linoleum is successfully used in residential and office premises, warehouse and industrial areas. To perform high-quality linoleum flooring, the performer must have extensive experience and knowledge of the basics of laying technology, a professional approach and accuracy. When arranging the floor with linoleum, non-standard situations may arise that require prompt, and most importantly, correct decisions. So, for example, in the process of work, quite noticeable gaps can form at the joints of the canvases, which can be hidden and made into a single web, it is possible only with the use of hot or cold welding for linoleum. To get a high-quality seam, you must follow certain rules and recommendations.
The main methods of welding linoleum with your own hands are 2 ways:
- hot way
- cold way,
each of which has its own undeniable advantages. At the same time, we note right away that the simplest and less laborious method that does not require special skills is cold welding of linoleum with glue, while hot welding is a very painstaking work, the implementation of which can only be mastered by an experienced professional using special tools.
Hot welding
Hot welding is applicable for sealing the seams of commercial linoleums, in those rooms where there is a significant intensity of mechanical stress on the floor surface, for example, in public buildings. Such a coating is characterized by increased strength and high cost, which means that professional skills and special tools will be required - a welding heating pad (soldering iron) and filler rods of a round or triangular profile made of plasticized polyvinyl chloride. Note that high-quality welding is possible only after gluing the coating to the floor surface, therefore the best time to perform welding activities is the next day after gluing.
The linoleum welding technology is as follows:
Before starting work on adjacent panels, the edges are pre-cut specifically for the shape of the bar, thereby forming V-shaped grooves. A heating pad is used to generate hot air currents. Moving through the heating elements, the temperature of the compressed air rises and reaches 300-400 ° C in the area of the tip. During the welding process, the torch, and with it the filler rod, is guided along the joint. The flow of hot air softens the surface of the linoleum and the two canvases are reliably welded under the action of a pressure roller. After the seam has cooled down a little, using an arcuate knife or flat chisel, the part of the fused cord protruding above the coating is carefully cut off and the seam is sanded until a flat surface is obtained.
If you do not have a welding torch at hand, then you can use an ordinary soldering iron, which, for sure, can be found at the workbench. However, the result can be disappointing - you cannot get a uniform, beautiful seam along the entire length of the coating. Therefore, if you need a high-quality, perfectly even seam and you do not have special equipment, then it is better to use cold welding.
Cold welding
So, what does the expression "cold welding for linoleum" mean - a combination of seemingly two opposite concepts? The answer lies in the technology of joining two canvases - a special glue, being a solvent, turns the edges of the material into a liquid state in a short period of time. The canvases are bonded, and after evaporation of the solvent, an aesthetic bond of increased strength is formed. The technological process of cold welding completely excludes the processing of linoleum with hot air.
The end result - a strong and smooth connection - is in no way inferior to the result of a melt-based connection in quality, and there is no need to purchase an expensive soldering iron. Therefore, experts recommend using the method of cold welding of linoleum, the price of which is affordable for any category of buyers, to connect household coating canvases, as well as to obtain an intricate or complex (in shape and configuration) seam. The main disadvantage of the method is the content of volatile solvents harmful to human health in the composition of the adhesive. Therefore, when doing cold welding, provide fresh air movement in the room.
Cold welding of linoleum with glue: varieties
Cold welding can be of two types, depending on the glue used:
- cold welding with A-glue,
- cold welding with C-glue.
Have you purchased linoleum and, having barely had time to spread it, want to combine several of its parts into a single piece? Then use the first type (A), designed specifically for welding seams of "freshly laid" coating. But if your floor covering managed to lie down for some time in the apartment, and you began to notice slightly parted seams, then it is better to use the second method (C). The main difference between glue A and glue C is consistency, in other words thickness.
C-glue is much thicker, since its task is to connect the parted joints of two canvases, and this is a few millimeters. By pouring adhesive C between the sheets of the covering, you fill the empty space, which, after drying, forms an extremely strong bond. Cold welding can be done without tape, since the thick adhesive will not flow, which means there is zero chance of unwanted melting of the coating.
How to glue linoleum with cold A-glue welding?
A-glue "works" in a completely different way: new, tightly stacked linoleum parts are subject to bonding. The glue actually melts the edges of the coating, forming a solid and perfectly flat panel. The unique properties of the adhesive ensure a high-quality and durable weld on the floor covering, especially if it is firmly adhered to the sub-floor.
Technological features of cold welding
Create a weld
If the flooring has been purchased but has not yet been installed, the first priority will be to trim the canvases to obtain a minimum seam. To do this, overlap two parts of linoleum (at least 5 cm). The cut line will be in the middle of the overlap. Using a pencil and a ruler, markings are applied, along which the material is subsequently cut with a special wallpaper knife. The edges obtained in this way will perfectly fit.
The reliability and durability of the weld, and of linoleum as a whole, is determined by the strength of the fastening and the immobility of its edges. It should be remembered that glued linoleum does not deform during operation, it is not afraid of wet cleaning in the room and even rearranging pieces of furniture. The floor covering can be glued with glue or double-sided tape.
If your room has an area of more than 20 square meters, then gluing the coating is a mandatory stage in the design of the floor space.
Cleaning the future seam
Since the glue contains harmful volatile solvents, gloves are becoming an essential part of the welding process. Using a vacuum cleaner, thoroughly clean the joint from dust and dirt particles. If water gets into the seam, wipe it dry.
Since cold welding, coming into direct contact with the front surface of the floor covering, can make it less attractive and spoil the overall impression of the interior, you should think about protecting the edges of the linoleum panels, especially if the linoleum has a glossy surface. To avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of a tainted, melted coating, you should use a wide, single-sided masking tape. It can be glued in two strips on each panel along the edge, or you can glue one strip on the future weld seam. Then carefully cut the tape at the joint, avoiding possible damage to the coating.
The photo shows soft linoleum, for welding of which two strips of masking tape are used.
Cold welding
To perform cold welding, it is necessary to carefully cut the adhesive tape over the joint of the panels, and when applying the adhesive, take into account the presence of a "needle" on the tip of the tube through which the glue will flow. Therefore, keep a cotton swab ready to avoid getting excess glue on the surface of the coating. Slowly apply the adhesive to the joint between the fabrics to be bonded. To do this, it is enough to run the tube along the seam, uniformly dispensing the composition along the entire length of the treated surface. In the process of work, maintain the height of the glue strip of 4 mm and follow the movement of the needle strictly along the cut.
There are two ways to apply glue:
The first method - glue is applied to two canvases at once, as in our example. Glue trapped in the seam interacts with the coating and polymerizes.
The second way - glue is applied to only one panel, which is processed separately, and then attached to the floor surface. Next, the adhesive is applied to the second sheet. They are laid as tightly as possible next to the first and carefully leveled, thereby ensuring high-quality joining of the pieces to be glued.
The method you choose is determined by the convenience, the consistency of the adhesive, the current condition of the flooring and other factors.
After the glue has dried (1-2 hours), you can safely walk on the floor.
Removing excess adhesive
After the glue has dried, you can remove the masking tape.
During cold welding, some of the adhesive may come out. There is no need to rush to remove the excess during the welding process, as the adhesive may peel off from the coating, and this is fraught with a decrease in the quality of the weld. In addition, there is a possibility that, using dirty tools, the wet layer of glue will get dirty. And, finally, the last argument - it is more convenient to cut off dried glue.
Note! Fresh cold welding is a little springy, and at the moment of tension during cutting, a depression may appear, therefore it is recommended to remove the excess in two passes.
As you can see, cold welding of linoleum is a simple job, which absolutely anyone can successfully cope with!
You can learn how to perform cold welding of linoleum at a high quality level and in a short time from the video on youtube.
Linoleum is a polymer material that is used as a versatile floor covering. In popularity, it even competes with laminate flooring. It is distinguished by ease of use and mobility, it is easy to lay and, if necessary, can also be easily removed. And the variety of colors and textures will satisfy all tastes and harmoniously fit into the interior and functionality of each room.
Based on the list of positive qualities, it is widespread among consumers, and this leads to a number of problems with regards to the correct laying technology, gluing joints and other production nuances. A special procedure is the processing and bonding of seams between individual sheets, which also raises many questions.
Coating features
Linoleum can easily be laid even by a person who is far from finishing work. Its surface is convenient and easy to wash, it is not afraid of water, movement on it is soft and does not cause noise. It is the best choice for many residential and commercial applications.
The division of linoleum into types occurs depending on the material of manufacture, wear resistance and structure.
Felt-based linoleum, which can be household and semi-commercial, is quite popular.
Its main features:
- The multi-layered and soft structure holds its shape better and practically does not deform;
- It bounces even on a concrete floor;
- Has the property of soundproofing;
- Due to the impregnation with anti-flammable substances, the possibility of its ignition is minimal.
- It retains heat well and boasts a long service life.
On the Russian market, it is presented in two versions, which in certain modifications can have from 5 to 7 layers:
- PVC - protects against physical and chemical effects;
- The second layer of PVC - functions similar to the first layer, are not available in all types of coatings;
- Printed cover;
- Foamed PVC - does not absorb moisture and prevents deformation during operation;
- Fiberglass - stabilizes all layers among themselves;
- Felt backing - base;
- An additional layer of waterproofing that protects the felt from moisture.
Styling features:
- The floor must be level and dry. The material itself is hard to cut with a knife, this must be taken into account before starting work and choose the right tool;
- For rooms with a high level of humidity, felt-based linoleum is still not suitable, it begins to mold and rot;
- It is desirable to have a monolithic coating of the entire area, it is extremely difficult to weld it and only a master should process the seams;
- At the joints, an additional water-repellent tape is glued, it is impossible for water to get into the gaps. The skirting boards must fit very tightly.
Linoleum on a fabric or textile basis is presented in two layers: the first is synthetic or natural felt and the second is PVC with decor.
It is used mainly in residential premises and has the following properties:
- Heat and sound insulation;
- Softness and elasticity;
- Does not require the help of specialists during installation;
- Environmental friendliness and safety.
You can lay it on a flat surface or on an old coating, if it lies without displacement. At the joints, protection from water is required, the use of skirting boards. The negative qualities include a relatively short service life and high cost.
Commercial linoleum is a coating designed specifically for places with a large flow of people. It is durable and is used in schools, hospitals, offices, corridors, cafes, shopping malls and similar places.
Positive sides:
- Resistant to moisture;
- Long service life, resistance to deformation, contains quartz chips;
- Environmentally friendly product, fireproof, soundproofing property;
- The construction is monolithic and does not slip.
Negative: high price and small palette of colors.
It is divided into two types: heterogeneous (multi-layer) and homogeneous (single-layer), they are the same in terms of service life, cost, but different in the field of application. Multi-layer are more suitable for rooms with a requirement for heat and sound insulation. Single-layer is applicable in places where there is a high probability of mechanical damage.
Laying such a coating should only be dealt with by a specialist. If it is necessary to glue it, the hot welding method is used.
When is bonding necessary?
Linoleum of domestic production is most often produced in a width of 1.5 meters. It's great for compact rooms, but it's a problem with larger rooms. Indeed, in this case, laying in separate strips and further welding of the seams are provided. In some cases, the coating has to be joined like a mosaic and glued in parts.
Many professionals advise to lay linoleum as completely as possible.
Before buying the material, the area of the apartment is measured and the required roll footage is calculated from this figure. Seams begin to join after the flooring. You can fix the carpet or mark the transition between rooms with gates.
Butt joint methods
Previously, the edges of linoleum could be soldered together only with the help of a special soldering iron. The seams were uneven, stood out strongly and ruined the entire appearance of the floor. This fastening did not last long. Nowadays, new, practical and reliable methods of soldering have been developed.
There are several ways to join the joints - these are cold and hot welding. The cold one helps to glue the flooring by applying a special adhesive, and the hot one - soldering with special equipment. Additional methods are also used, such as double-sided tape.
For laying linoleum on top of other materials or if the edge is lifted, rubber, wooden or metal sills are used (mechanical method).
It is possible to connect the seams with your own hands at home only by cold welding, with tape or a nut. It cannot be argued that one method is good and the other is bad. It all depends on the specific case, the specialization of the room and the type of linoleum.
Hot welding
It is necessary to immediately note the inexpediency of the method at home. Household linoleum is not resistant to high temperatures and will eventually melt. For the most part, the technology is designed for a very strong and wear-resistant material, which is mainly used in commercial or industrial enterprises or for creating complex application works.
For work you will need:
- connector - polymer cords (welding);
- soldering apparatus - hot air gun and nozzle;
- fluoroplastic tape;
- sharp knife.
It is better to rent a hairdryer, as this is a tool of narrow specialization and will most likely not be needed in the future.
Soldering technique:
- Linoleum is tightly attached to the floor with PVA glue or fluoroplastic tape and the edges are adjusted. Dust, water and debris are preliminarily removed;
- Along the entire length of the joint, a recess is cut out in the form of a V-shaped groove with a sharp knife or cutter;
- Attach the nozzle to the soldering machine. The cord is inserted into the nozzle;
- Only after that the hair dryer is turned on and heated to a high temperature (300-600 ° C). Good equipment should have sensors and temperature control;
- The edges are degreased for better adhesion. They are carried out with a hairdryer along the joint, without lingering in one place. It is necessary to solder smoothly along the entire length. The polymer should protrude somewhat beyond the seam. The cooled seam is cut along the entire length with an arcuate knife (the seam should be warm, but already set). It is more convenient to solder from the wall to the middle of the room, and also from the opposite side.
Advantages of the method:
- The seam has a long service life;
- Strong and reliable connection.
Minuses:
- Expensive equipment and consumables;
- Soldering requires skills in working with the equipment;
- The seam is quite noticeable;
- Not suitable for household linoleum.
You can also weld linoleum with a soldering iron or iron. Although this method is deprecated, it does occur occasionally. The soldering iron is convenient in small rooms with inconspicuous, few joints.
The essence of the technique is simple: the soldering iron is heated and the edges of the sheets are melted, they are connected to each other. The resulting seam is cut off if necessary. So that it does not stand out strongly against the general background, along the fresh and soft seam, pressing, it is carried out several times with a roller.
Plus - simplicity and affordability.
Minuses:
- The joints do not look aesthetically pleasing;
- They are brittle and do not last long;
- Modern types of coatings do not melt well under the influence of a soldering iron.
Details on how to glue linoleum using hot welding can be found in the video below.
Cold welding
This is a modern technology that is ideal for those who have no experience in such work, but want to independently and efficiently process the joints at home. Adhesion of the edges by cold welding is carried out using a specialized glue.
This processing has a number of positive aspects:
- There is no need to hire professional workers and buy special equipment;
- A fairly economical option that does not require large cash costs;
- The seams are neat and almost invisible.
Gluing kit:
- wide paper tape;
- knife (not clerical!);
- ruler;
- glue (cold welding).
Household welding is divided into three types - "A", "C" and "T":
- Type "A" is well suited for gluing new, only laid linoleum. The consistency of the glue is quite liquid, it allows you to even more reliably hide the seams and ensure a snug fit. It literally melts the edges and holds them tightly;
- Type "C" is focused on the old coating. Here the glue is much thicker, the consistency is similar to jelly. This determines its ability to fill large gaps. With its help, the old coating is repaired, cracks, such seams do not get dirty. Finished seams are about 4 mm wide;
- Type "T" is intended for polyester materials. Working with this composition requires knowledge and skills. It is highly toxic.
The glue comes in tubes and is sold in hardware stores. At the end of the bottle there is a needle-tip, which should be thin enough to penetrate deeply into the seam.
Before gluing the linoleum, you should spread it out and leave it to straighten for about a week. During this time, it will smooth out and adapt to the shape of the floor. After that, the excess parts are cut off and fixed along the plinth. The floor is pre-washed and, if necessary, primed. To make the seam even less noticeable, the sheets are overlapped one on top of the other. A cover without a pattern will need about 4 centimeters, and the presence of a pattern will require adjustment.
Cold overlap welding technique:
- The upper part is bent, the tape is glued in the middle and along the lower part. The same strip is attached to the top;
- A ruler is placed in the middle and cut along the line with a knife up to the floor;
- The trimmed parts are removed, so a tight connection is obtained, protected with tape;
- Now, in the middle, the place of the cut is filled with welding (the spout is immersed in half), the glue protrudes slightly;
- After 15 minutes, the composition dries, after which you can remove the tape.
Cold welding technique without overlapping:
- The edges are cut as smoothly as possible. If a drawing is present, then it is also adjusted;
- A wide paper tape is glued. It is needed to protect the material and highlight the bonding area. In the course of the seam, the scotch tape is cut;
- Guided by the tape, glue is applied to the seam. It is important not to let it fall on an unprotected surface. It is impossible to clean the coating from it;
- After 15 minutes, the tape is smoothly removed. After 2 hours, you can safely walk on the floor.
- The technique is intended for a new coating. When gluing the old one, all points are observed, but the scotch tape can not be glued, since the linoleum has already "lay down" and does not need additional fixation.
Repairing Torn Linoleum:
- We thoroughly clean and degrease cracks or defects, stick adhesive tape;
- We cut through the gap, opening access only to the damaged area;
- Fill with glue (type "C") and wait for it to dry completely;
- Remove scotch tape and excess glue.
If damage has occurred on a fresh canvas, for example, when rearranging furniture, then we take type "A" glue.
Pros:
- Ease of use;
- Suitable for home use;
Here are some helpful tips from the pros:
- The nose of the tube with glue should go deeply inside the seam;
- The layer is applied along the entire length, protruding above it by no more than 4 mm;
- It is convenient to quickly remove drops from the surface with a rag;
- The excess should be removed after complete drying so that the glue does not move away from the edges;
- It is better to hold the tube of glue with both hands;
- Glue is a corrosive chemical, therefore it is necessary to observe safety measures and work only with rubber gloves and a respirator;
- During operation, ventilation is required, after airing the room.
The disadvantage of this method is the impossibility of using it on floorings with insulation or a soft base. The joints come out uneven and inaccurate, and the seam is visible to the naked eye and greatly spoils the appearance of the floor.
Double-sided tape
The easiest but unreliable way. This is because none, even the best adhesive tape, is designed for a long-term load and over time its adhesive capacity weakens. In order to glue it, only a flat floor without bumps is suitable. Based on this, it is better to prime the entire surface before work with a special strengthening soil.
There are many quality floor coverings on the construction market today. They differ in characteristics and styling features. Linoleum still maintains a leading position. If the room is non-standard or rather large, you have to dock pieces of material. At the same time, home craftsmen are faced with the problem of creating beautiful and durable joints. Before such work, you should figure out how to glue the linoleum end-to-end.
Connection methods
To figure out how to dock pieces of flooring, you should familiarize yourself with the basic methods of such work. Often the following methods are used to join the edges of linoleum:
As you can see, all these methods have certain features. However, most often when repairing floors in houses and apartments, the cold welding method is used. You can figure out how to glue linoleum at home if you know the technology of work.
Features of cold welding of linoleum
To join the seams of linoleum end-to-end with cold welding, you will need to use a special adhesive. It has certain properties due to which the bonded material begins to dissolve. When the glue hardens, the joint disappears - a solid surface remains. There are several types of glue that can be used to bond linoleum. It is worth figuring out how you can glue linoleum at the joints:
For work, you should prepare:
- A ruler - it should be metal and quite long.
- Construction knife.
- Large width masking tape.
- Double sided tape.
The floor surface is cleaned before installing the linoleum. It is better to align and repair it. In the case of soft linoleum, the material must be leveled without fail. For this purpose, linoleum is left unfolded in the room being repaired for 3 days.
If it is necessary to dock the edge of the sheet, problems should not arise. To form even edges of the cut piece, overlap the sheets. The marking line is made using a metal ruler. It is necessary to draw along it with a knife without removing the ruler. In this case, the edges should fit perfectly. The trimmed panels are placed in a permanent place and fixed to the base of the floor with double-sided tape.
Procedure
The adhesive composition "Cold welding" begins to react with PVC products, therefore, you should not allow the glue to get on the linoleum itself outside the junction. To eliminate this situation, you should stick masking tape on the surface of the pieces to be joined. Then, using a construction knife, a furrow is made along the joint. In the cut, you need to pour the adhesive composition. After a little time, the masking tape is removed. You can make sure that the joint has become invisible.
Advice! When the glue dries, the remaining beads of the composition are cut off with a knife. With high-quality cold welding of linoleum, the seams will not be visible.
For floor coverings that are 3 mm thick, a 60 ml tube of adhesive is sufficient. It is enough for 30 running meters. This value changes depending on how well the work is done.
In order for the pieces of linoleum to adhere to each other as tightly as possible, the recommendations of experienced builders should be followed when performing cold welding. It is important to take care of a few subtleties of the process. It is important to follow the technology exactly. It consists of the following stages:
Such features of the technology of cold welding of linoleum should be kept in mind when performing work.
Features of floor repair by cold welding
If you are not planning to replace the old linoleum, and it already has tears and cracks, you should choose cold welding as a method for repairing the flooring. This work is easy to do with your own hands.
It is better to choose type C glue for linoleum. This is due to its thick consistency. Such a composition is more suitable for joining linoleum joints than type A glue. It can even seal large joints with it. The procedure for sealing cracks in old linoleum is the same as in the case of joining new pieces.
Removing excess adhesive
When the masking tape is removed, you may notice the remains of dried glue on the linoleum. The composition may come out during application. You should not try to quickly eliminate these surpluses. This can lead to delamination of the composition from the coating. In this case, the quality of the weld will deteriorate. In addition, there is a possibility that wet glue will get dirty when using dirty tools. In addition, a composition that is completely dry is easier to cut.
Attention! fresh cold weld has low spring properties. When pulling and cutting the compound, a slight indentation may remain. For this reason, the surplus is eliminated twice.
Cold welding is a simple process that anyone can handle. The main thing is to follow the advice of professionals and carry out all work in accordance with the technology.
For successful bonding of linoleum using Cold Welding glue, special attention should be paid to a few practical tips based on the experience of many professionals. Thanks to them, you can avoid simple but unpleasant mistakes:
Such tips will help you to effectively and quickly dock new linoleum or repair the old one. This method of joining the floor covering is the most effective and simplest. Thanks to him, various coatings for household use are connected. It won't take much time to master the method. To perform such work, you do not need to have special skills or use professional tools. The simplicity of the work allows you not to involve other people in the repair.
conclusions
Many stores sell cold welding glue. Usually the composition is available in a 100 ml tube. This volume is enough for laying a floor in a large living room. The cost of the composition is quite low, therefore the cold welding method itself can be called economical.
Linoleum joints, which are processed with glue, turn into a single coating quite quickly. It is important to observe safety during work. This is due to the presence of aggressive substances in the glue. It is necessary to exclude the entry of vapors of the composition into the respiratory tract. In case of contact with glue, the skin should be thoroughly washed with water. After that, it is required to provide the worker with urgent medical assistance.
Given such tips and tricks, you can dock linoleum in a large room on your own pretty quickly. In this way, the cracks in the old coating are also closed. The convenience and accessibility of the method has made it popular among home craftsmen.
To understand how to glue linoleum with cold welding, you should additionally watch the video:
Linoleum is a material that has occupied a leading position in the construction market among finishing floor coverings for many years. It has its merits and demerits. One of the disadvantages of linoleum can be considered the presence of seams, when you have to dock it between rooms or connect separate strips to each other when covering large areas. However, this disadvantage is easy to deal with. There is a special technique - cold welding for linoleum. It will allow you to close the joints between individual cuts of material without the use of metal sills.
Before we talk about how to connect the joints between individual pieces of linoleum, a few words should be said about the material itself. This type of floor finish is used both in residential premises and in offices or in production. The thing is that linoleum has a lot of positive features - it is easy to install, is not afraid of the effects of water, is quite durable, does not slip and, in general, does not cause problems throughout the entire operational period. Also, linoleum has a lot of variations in colors, textures, it can be simple or insulated.
Another advantage of linoleum is that the material is sold by the meter and can have different widths, which allows you to choose the optimal dimensions for each room. However, it is almost impossible to lay material in all rooms without cuts. Also, sometimes in large rooms it is necessary to join separate pieces of material. As a result, seams are formed, which are either closed with a metal sill, which is not always appropriate, or can be left as is, or the edges of the linoleum strip are nailed down with small studs. But it is recommended to use welding to connect individual pieces.
Welding of pieces of linoleum can be done using cold or hot technology, but in both cases this work, although simple, still requires attention, accuracy and adherence to special rules. In general, welding is the creation of a seam / joint between individual sheets of material. Thanks to the work done, it is possible to obtain a large one-piece piece of linoleum. This is especially important in places of active movement of people or constant mechanical impact on the coating.
Hot welding of seams of linoleum
The hot welding process is based on the temperature effect on linoleum. This type of welding is usually used inside industrial premises, where the floors are subjected to strong mechanical stress, as well as where there is a high traffic of people and the floors wear out very quickly. Also, using the hot technique, rather long joints are closed up.
Hot welding is carried out using a special torch (hot air gun), which is capable of heating the material up to 400 degrees and melting it. A special filler cord is inserted into the gap between the material cuts, which also heats up. In structure, it resembles linoleum itself. After cooling, two separate pieces of linoleum are very reliably glued (soldered) together. Then the formed "scar" is lightly sanded.
On a note! If there is no special burner at hand for connecting individual pieces of linoleum, then builders use a powerful electric soldering iron. However, in this case, it will not be possible to achieve an ideal result - the seam will be crooked.
Also, to carry out work using the hot welding method, you will need scissors with a crescent-shaped blade. With their help, excess adhesive component will be removed. Regular scissors will not work here.
For hot welding of linoleum, a special device is used - a hot air gun
Advantages of the hot welding method:
- the ability to get a durable and completely sealed seam;
- high reliability of the method.
The disadvantages of the hot welding technique include the fact that it can only be used while laying a dense, rigid type of linoleum. Low-quality and soft linoleum will simply melt and deteriorate. It is also necessary to have certain working skills in order to avoid mistakes and not spoil the coating. In general, if all the work was done correctly and accurately, then the gap between the individual canvases of linoleum will not be noticeable to the eyes.
In the photo, removing excess from linoleum
Cold welding of this flooring material is much simpler than hot welding. It does not require the master to have special skills or to acquire certain equipment, and therefore is most suitable for performing work on his own during repairs in an apartment.
Cold welding of linoleum is carried out using a special glue that acts on the principle of a solvent. It "corrodes" the edges of linoleum canvases, and after drying, firmly connects them to each other. The result of the work is a thin seam, which is practically invisible, unless you specifically look for it. The connection is quite strong and reliable.
Cold welding of linoleum - stages of work
Attention! The glue used for cold welding technology is quite toxic, so you need to work with it carefully.
Advantages and disadvantages
The popularity of cold welding is easy to explain. The method has many advantages. Advantages of the cold welding technique:
- the result of the work is practically invisible to the naked eye;
- no need to purchase special equipment - you just need to buy special glue, masking tape;
- the work is done quite quickly;
- low cost - one tube of cold welding is enough for sealing large seams, it is much more profitable than buying so many metal sills.
There are practically no drawbacks to cold welding, except that it will not work with multilayer linoleum - the joint will be striking. It is also not recommended to use the cold welding method if insulation was laid under the linoleum.
Types of adhesives for cold welding of linoleum
Different types of adhesives can be used as an adhesive component for cold welding of linoleum. There are three main ones - A, C, T. They differ from each other in consistency, and the appropriate glue should be chosen based on the size of the gap.
Table. Types of glue for cold welding of linoleum.
| Glue type | Characteristic |
|---|---|
| This is a liquid adhesive containing a fairly large amount of solvent. It is used if the gaps between two linoleum canvases are very narrow (no more than 1 mm). The glue easily penetrates the joints, joins the fragments into a single whole. The most important thing is that the strips of linoleum are well docked and lie flat. It is ideal if the factory edges are joined together. The result of the work is invisible seams. |
| A sufficiently thick compound that is used to seal joints with a gap of about 2 mm or more. The composition contains much less solvent, but more PVC. The thick mass fills the seam, hardens - a reliable and strong connection is obtained. Even if the edges of the linoleum canvases are not even enough, this glue will cope with the task. The adhesive is suitable for repairing old linoleum. |
| This type of glue is rarely used, especially by beginners. However, experienced builders may prefer it. The composition is used to join pieces of multi-component linoleum. It is made on the basis of polyvinyl chloride and polyester. The joint is durable, elastic. |
Type A glue is most often used for home repairs. Other types are used less often, especially the latter.
Cold welding technology
Welding of any type of linoleum is carried out only after the material has been laid on the floor. Before this, the rough base is leveled, cleaned of debris, washed and dried if necessary. Only after that, the linoleum, previously measured and cut in accordance with the size of the room, spreads to the surface. Before fixing it with plinths or another method, the linoleum is kept in the room for some time, leveled. In this case, the canvases are laid with an overlap of about 3-4 cm.
Attention! If there is a complex pattern on the linoleum, then it is important to take this aspect into account when joining. That is, adjusting the pattern, especially when laying the material with an overlap, should be very accurate, carefully measuring everything. In case of violation of the geometry of the picture, it will no longer be possible to correct the situation. The only way out is to buy a new canvas.
Step 1. The first step is to overlap the linoleum canvases in the room, as mentioned above. To obtain an ideal joint, the following method is used: using a ruler and a clerical knife, two canvases are cut at once. The cut line should be about the middle of the overlap. That is, if the width of the overlap is 4 cm, the cut line will follow a line 2 cm away from the edge.
Step 2. The incision is made along a previously marked line along a long ruler laid along it. It presses tightly to the surface, and the cut is most conveniently done with a sharp clerical knife. Also, instead of a ruler, an even cut of linoleum, a metal bar, etc. can be used.
Step 3. Cuttings from the lower and upper canvases are removed. It turns out an even joint.
Step 4. Linoleum canvases are folded back. If the material is not fixed on the entire surface of the floor, then its edges along the cuts are glued using double-sided tape. It is best to invite a friend to help here, since it is not very convenient to glue the edges of linoleum on your own. First of all, the adhesive tape is glued to the subfloor, and then the protective film is removed from it and linoleum is glued on top.
Step 5. The joint is rolled with a small roller. This procedure will make it possible to press the linoleum well against the tape and the floor.
Step 6. After that, the junction of two pieces of linoleum is processed with a soft damp cloth, and then dried. The area where the adhesive will be applied must be clean and dry.
Step 7. The joint is glued with masking tape. It adheres well to the surface.
Step 8. A strip of masking tape is also rolled with the narrow roller used previously. With the correct procedure, the cold welding adhesive will not get on the surface of the linoleum and will not damage it.
Step 9. The masking tape is cut along the joint line between the linoleum canvases. This is necessary in order to be able to apply glue to the joint.
Step 10. The tube with cold welding is shaken before starting work. The tip of the tube is well cleaned before use.
Step 11. The adhesive composition is applied as follows: the tip of the tube is inserted into the joint between the linoleum canvases and pressed with the fingers of one hand. The fingers of the other hand apply pressure to the tube. The tube is led along the joint.
Attention! It is important to ensure that the composition that is in the tube does not get on the linoleum unprotected with masking tape.
Step 12. After 10-15 minutes, the tape is carefully removed. It is important not to stain unprotected linoleum with glue. The tape is removed at an acute angle. The result of the work is an almost invisible narrow seam. You can move around the linoleum without fear about two hours after the work.
This is how the work is done with type A glue. But you can also work with the type C composition in the same way, except that masking tape is not used. And the appearance of the joint will be more noticeable.
It is important to keep your health in mind when working with welding. Glue vapors are poisonous, and therefore the room must be well ventilated.
Video - Cold welding technology
Cold welding prices for longoleum
cold welding for linoleum
In order for the work to go as quickly as possible, and the result was of high quality, you should listen to some advice from experienced specialists.
- If glue has dripped onto the surface of unprotected linoleum, then you need to wait until the drop is dry and remove it with a knife. It is not recommended to rub the glue, as there is a risk of ruining the drawing.
- Cold welding can also be used for repair work on old linoleum.
- It is better to work with protective gloves to avoid contact of glue on the skin.
- You cannot apply glue without a needle tip to the tube.
- Excess glue is always removed when dry with a sharp knife.
Cold welding of linoleum can be done independently without the help of specialists. The main thing is to comply with all requirements and be attentive to this simple but painstaking work.
Attractive appearance, ease of maintenance, durability, low cost make felt linoleum a popular floor covering. Laying the material is easy when using a solid sheet. If several components are used for the flooring, it becomes necessary to process the seams. In this case, cold welding for linoleum comes to the rescue, allowing you to create a strong, invisible joint.
To create a quality flooring requires good experience, knowledge of technological fundamentals, a competent approach to business, accuracy. When laying linoleum, there are often hitches, non-standard situations where making the right decision is required. In particular, when joining different pieces of coating, visible discrepancies may appear. Cold welding glue for linoleum helps to hide the seams, to create the appearance of a solid sheet. There are two ways of bonding - cold and hot. To obtain high-quality joints, you need to take into account the type of product, use it in accordance with the rules and recommendations.
There are several ways to align sheets
Hot welding
The high-temperature connection of the parts of the coating is carried out using special tools - an apparatus and a cord for welding linoleum. This kind of work is meticulous and is carried out only by experienced professionals. Hot welding of linoleum is widely used to create flooring in public spaces, where the floor is exposed to high mechanical stress. This method provides a strong adhesion, at the same time it is characterized by a high cost.
This one is quite expensive and costly Cold welding
Another method of processing seams, which does not use high temperatures, is widely used in everyday life. Such welding of linoleum involves joining the canvas with a specially designed glue. The binder is a solvent that can liquefy the material for some time. The edges are then bonded and the solvent evaporates leaving a neat, high-strength bond.
The adhesive is easy to use The end result of cold bonding is in no way inferior in quality to the thermal treatment of the coating. At the same time, there is no need to buy an expensive linoleum welding machine. For this reason, it is recommended to use the cold method, in which it is possible to obtain an intricate seam, even with the complexity of its shape and configuration.
How much does cold welding cost for linoleum? The price of the composition varies from 150 to 550 rubles. The main disadvantage of cold bonding is the content of volatile compounds in the glue, which are harmful to human health. When processing seams, it is required to ventilate the room well.
Be sure to ventilate the room
The coating is connected by several types of compounds. Consider which cold welding is best for linoleum? Binders differ in consistency, level of toxicity, and can be recommended for a particular type of web. Individual parts of the coating are welded:
- A-glue, intended for bonding the edges of "freshly laid" pieces of material;
- C-glue, used if the material has already had time to lie down in the room;
- T-glue, which is less widespread due to increased toxicity, difficulty in work.
There are several varieties of the mixture Cold welding adhesive type A
This type of compound is the most common used for cold bonding of soft material. The composition is intended for joining the edges of a new coating that has not been used before. Type A glue is characterized by a liquid consistency. Because of this, the seam is thin, invisible to the naked eye. With high-quality work, a tight fit of the material to the base, the presence of a seam is detected only by touch.
This one is applied to a new canvas. Such liquid welding for linoleum is well suited for bonding floors with miniature patterns, intricate patterns. Careful selection of the contour allows you to create an invisible connection. The flooring gets its impeccable appearance. Smooth edges are required for cold bonding. It is good if you want to lay new linoleum, evenly cut at the factory. If the cutting is done by hand, the edge of the canvas may be sloppy. For uneven edges, it is better to use a thicker glue C.
Adhesive type C
The binder composition of type C is characterized by an increased viscosity, a thicker consistency compared to the previous agent. This adhesive contains less solvent, more PVC. The composition is used in the event that the previously laid canvas has dispersed, forming gaps up to 4 mm. Glue C, poured into the seam, fills the void, gives a strong connection after drying.
Suitable for curtains with uneven edges Such cold welding for felt-based linoleum allows you to restore the integrity of the coating, eliminate defects that have arisen during the operation of the floor. It is also suitable for laying fabrics with uneven edges. Cold welding is carried out without the use of tape, because the thick composition does not spread. The probability of accidental melting of a material is zero.
Type T
Cold welding of linoleum seams using T glue is less common due to the complexity of its application. The correct use of the product is possible with a thorough professional training. Making a quality seam requires special skills. Glue T is characterized by high toxicity; it is used for bonding segments of polyvinyl chloride linoleum based on polyester.
Toxic and difficult to use
To create a reliable connection, in addition to a set for welding linoleum, it is required to carry out work in a certain sequence. Compliance with the instructions helps to achieve an excellent result, makes the seam neat, almost invisible. Before applying cold welding, the joint must be carefully prepared. The edges of the coating are cleaned with a vacuum cleaner, excess moisture is removed. The creation of a high-quality joint is possible only on a dry surface.
Seam formation
The cold bonding of the edges of the felt covering begins with laying the material, neatly trimming the edge. The thickness of the seam should be kept to a minimum to allow for an inconspicuous seam. To align the edges, you need to overlap the linoleum. Then a preliminary line is drawn with a pencil. The material is then cut with a sharp knife. This way of aligning the edges allows you to maximize the alignment of the edges, to avoid the formation of gaps.
The main thing is to make very even seams. Then you need to fix both parts of the covering on the subfloor. The material is not prone to deformation, so the fastening should not be solid. Double-sided tape is suitable for fixing. The adhesive tape is applied from below so that the cover adheres to the base. In addition, you need to protect the adjacent areas of the material with adhesive tape. Otherwise, glue may get there, which can spoil the appearance of the coating.
Glue application
How to glue linoleum with cold welding? The bonding fluid is applied to the inside of the joint so as not to touch the outside of the material. The composition should not fall into places not intended for connection. Have a tampon or napkin on hand to remove any adhesive if accidentally spilled onto the floor.
The glue must not fall by There is no need to process this or that section of the seam for a long time. It is enough just to lead a tube along the joint, slowly injecting the composition inside. In this case, it is necessary to control the movement of the needle through which the glue is fed. The distribution of the composition should not be overly economical. The adhesive can protrude up to 4 mm above the floor surface.
The applied composition dries up in 2 hours. During this time, the bonding fluid can protrude and solidify, thereby creating an unevenness. At the end of the work, remove the masking tape, remove the glue that has come out. It is important to do this after the joint has dried to avoid damage. In addition, the dry compound is much easier to clean.
Before cold welding linoleum, consider the following:
- Thorough cleaning of the seam before joining increases the likelihood of creating a high-quality joint. This is especially important when repairing used coatings;
- The adhesive contains a solvent that is toxic and harmful to the skin. For this reason, work must be carried out in a well-ventilated area, protecting yourself with gloves, a respirator;
- When applying glue, the sharp tip must be pressed into the seam, adjusting the amount of liquid squeezed out. Excess, protruding on the surface, is cut off after the compound has completely dried.
There are many subtleties of work
The process of cold bonding a felt covering is better and easier if you take into account some useful tips:
- When buying linoleum, you need to take into account that for gluing and leveling the canvas, you will need an overlap of sheets of about 6 cm. This is required to create the most even edge that ensures a high-quality joint;
- The glue should be dispensed from the tube through the needle tip. This device fills the gap between the edges as much as possible, avoiding an erroneous application of the composition;
- If you accidentally spill adhesive on the coating, do not immediately try to wipe it off. It is required to wait until the glue is completely dry, then remove the frozen composition with a clerical knife.
Remove any glue residues from the seams Cold welding of the coating is an affordable and effective method of bonding linoleum that does not require a special set of tools, a cord. In this way, both new and used floor coverings can be glued. Compliance with the instructions, taking into account the nuances of the work leads to the creation of a high-quality connection.