Quartz vinyl floor tiles - rules for selection and installation

Quartz vinyl tiles are a popular finishing material that has high strength characteristics and is used for flooring. Typically, the products presented are intended for a narrow scope of use, but they are beginning to be actively used for furnishing houses and apartments. In this article we will consider these trends, the main technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of such material.

We provide tiling services in an apartment, house or commercial premises.

Quartz vinyl floor tiles

Production technology

Quartz vinyl tiles are the optimal finishing material for floors. This is due to several nuances that relate to the versatility of the masonry, high quality and breadth of design execution. Quartz sand is used for the production of specialized products. Depending on the model and features, the sand content can reach 60-80%. The remaining 20-40% is occupied by various impurities, which impart strength, various physical properties, or set the unique style of the finished product.

There are 2 types of tiles on the modern market: interlocking and adhesive. The first option is less demanding on the evenness of the base, the second is distinguished by the breadth of design execution. The main physical parameters include strength, resistance to water, fire, and so on. The presented product is also distinguished by its flexibility, which is achieved through the addition of various types of plasticizers. This greatly simplifies the installation procedure.

Quartz vinyl tiles can be interlocking and adhesive

Stabilizers help increase resistance to high temperatures and UV rays. But various pigments allow you to give a unique color or unusual tone to a product. Some additives help transform the texture, so imitating a variety of textures is not too difficult.

To create the top layer, a wide variety of compounds are used, for example, polyurethane, metallized polish, and so on. All this guarantees a beautiful presentation in appearance while maintaining high stability of the base. As for other layers, they are responsible for increasing strength and providing the necessary level of heat and noise insulation. Depending on the manufacturer, quartz vinyl tiles consist of 6 layers (sometimes of five).

This tile consists of several layers, which is necessary for its strength, beautiful appearance, and resistance to UV rays.

1. The first layer is made of PVC, which provides increased stability of the floor covering, as well as the necessary level of adhesion to the floor. Various adhesive bases are used for masonry.
2. A second layer of fiberglass is placed on top of the PVC. The presented material is used to reinforce the surface and increase the level of durability.
3. The next layer is created directly from quartz vinyl. It provides the required strength and the required appearance.
4. Next, the decorative layer discussed above is applied. The presented element sets the texture, color and gives the required form factor.
5. To protect the design, a thin, transparent layer is required. For this, a wide variety of materials such as varnishes are used. Some variations are resistant to direct sunlight.
6. The polyurethane layer helps ensure resistance to chemicals. The latter also increases the service life of the floor covering.

Structure of quartz vinyl tiles

If the technology is done correctly, the production process is streamlined, in fact the client receives an ideal product that is distinguished by good durability, strength and sufficient beauty. An important nuance is the versatility of interlocking quartz vinyl tiles, since it does not require laying a specialized substrate.

Kinds

Tiles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, colors and combinations. All these differences are necessary to satisfy the desires of customers. But the main difference between quartz vinyl tiles is the method of their installation. There are three options for installing tiles:

• installation using special glue;
• installation using locking connections on the product;
• self-adhesive option, therefore, to install in this way, it is necessary to remove the film on the wrong side of the product and glue the tile to the base.

Tiles are divided into classes based on abrasion. To install tiles at home, it is recommended to use materials from class 31 to class 33. This will allow the tile to retain its appearance for a long time - at least 10-15 years. For the hallway, as well as in educational institutions or offices, it is recommended to use a product of class 34. Such tiles can withstand significant types of loads, therefore they have a long service life.

Main varieties

Quartz vinyl tiles are divided into several groups according to a wide variety of characteristics. The first and main gradation is considered according to the type of installation. Based on the presented characteristics, 4 types of fixation are distinguished.

1. Self-adhesive base. The most common type, which involves applying a special adhesive base to the back of the tile. To prevent the glue from drying out, it is covered with a special film.
2. With mechanical lock. The presented option is somewhat reminiscent of laminate. The presented product is characterized by quick and simple installation; it is possible to repair without completely deforming the floor covering.
3. The basis for working with glue.
   This option is considered basic and is often used when saving money is needed. The specialist himself selects the layer and adjusts the smoothness of the surface using glue and a special tool. Quartz vinyl tiles with a mechanical lock resemble laminate
4. Free-standing tiles. The presented option does not require any coupling element. The products are tightly mounted to each other without glue, locks, etc.

The presented gradation is not the only one. There are other varieties, for example, according to wear resistance class.

There are several classes of quartz vinyl tiles based on wear resistance

A compliment from the Polov salon!

Free delivery throughout Russia by PEK transport company or glue as a gift when ordering more than five packages of some types of vinyl flooring (look for the corresponding tags on the products in the catalog)*.

* — “Free delivery” and “Glue as a gift” promotions cannot be combined within one order. Check with managers for details!

Dimensions and form factor

Typically, quartz vinyl tiles can be found in three forms.

1. In the form of a square with standard dimensions from 30 to 60 centimeters. Such tiles are laid end-to-end, which ensures the unity of the site.
2. Rectangular shape, available in a wide variety of sizes. The choice is determined by the characteristics of the premises; the most popular form factor is considered to be 60 by 30, 90 by 15. An acceptable option in terms of installation is considered to be one with a slight offset.
3. Imitation of laminate. The products are supplied in the form of large tiles, each measuring 122 by 18 centimeters. The most universal method of laying is considered to be offset by a third or half. As for thickness, it can reach up to 5.5 millimeters.

There are quartz vinyl tiles for laminate - they come in the form of large tiles

Cutting flexible slabs during installation

A convenient blade knife is a traditional construction tool for changing the length and shape of flexible lamellas, including quartz vinyl tiles. It is cut on the front side, preferably along a metal ruler, then broken and the cut is completed on the reverse side. Look at the substrate, sometimes there is an arrow indicating the direction of installation.

It is impossible to do without cutting - the rows, according to the technology, are laid offset. When reaching the wall, you always end up with an excess length of one piece. To do this, tiles with identified defects (at the edges and corners) are often used; they are used when cutting under communications and under the baseboard.

Any layer can be started with a single piece or trim, then laid in a strip, reaching the next wall. If there are heating pipes or other openings for communications, you will have to draw a template and mark and cut the quartz vinyl lamella according to it.

Important! Sometimes you have to saw down wooden interior parts, gypsum plasterboard partitions or door frames so that the tiles fit better. The cut template must be checked from all sides so as not to cut twice.

The wood or “stone” pattern does not require adjustment. Be careful to ensure that no two identically patterned slabs with the same textured pattern match – the lamella can be unfolded or a piece with a slightly different design can be inserted.

Advantages and disadvantages

As noted at the beginning of the article, the consumable material in question is of high quality, practicality and versatility. However, initially products of this type were used only in industrial enterprises. This means that, in addition to the advantages, there are also disadvantages, which we will discuss further. This will ensure an understanding of the features and the absence of risks of negative phenomena.

The first positive factor is the duration of operation. In domestic premises, the floor covering practically does not wear out. This is due to the fact that the product is able to withstand high traffic, not only people, but also vehicles. If the tile is damaged, it can be easily repaired or replaced with another one. To do this, you do not need to involve specialists or look for specialized tools.

The second significant advantage is resistance to moisture and high air humidity. It is important to note that quality and durability depend on the installation method and the correct execution of the assigned tasks. Quartz does not burn, and in a fire or when heated, no toxic or life-threatening substances are released. Therefore, the application is relevant for homes and premises where there are risks of fire.

This material is not at all afraid of water, so it is well suited for wet areas

The third significant addition and advantage is increased noise insulation. This helps save on additional finishing. The absorption power is 19 dB, which guarantees ideal living conditions for both you and your neighbors.

The fourth advantage is the variety of design. Products are presented on the market in wide variations in shape, color, and so on. Selecting products to match the overall design is not difficult, so you can always find an exclusive solution using ordinary material. It is important to note that the cost of the material is acceptable, and taking into account the long-term prospects of operation, it is literally priceless.

Quartz vinyl tiles have several disadvantages, which it is advisable to familiarize yourself with in advance. The first and main unpleasant moment is a more thorough elaboration of the surface. In addition, experts recommend using an additional layer of waterproofing, which will increase heat conservation and sound insulation.

This material has a low price, while having a wide variety and high quality.

The best option for leveling the floor is considered to be pouring a screed. This takes a lot of time, taking into account the complete hardening of the coating, but such a procedure significantly extends the service life.

Tips for installing vinyl flooring

The process of laying vinyl flooring is quite simple, but it has some nuances. So, to get a high-quality result, you need to listen to the advice of experts:

• When laying vinyl flooring with interlocking joints in rooms with high humidity, it is recommended to seal the joints between panels using cold welding.
• You can use a backing under the tiles with a locking joint to enhance the thermal insulation properties.
• To remove residual adhesive from the surface of the coating, you need to use an alcohol solution.
• If traces of dried glue remain on the surface of the coating, they can be removed with a solvent.
• To create an original pattern, you can combine different shapes and colors of panels.
• In the absence of a hygrometer, the humidity of the rough foundation can be determined using a two or three-liter jar. To do this, turn it upside down, placing it on the floor screed, and leave it for 12 hours. If, after this time, condensation has formed on the walls of the can, you need to wait a little longer with laying the vinyl tiles. Since laying the coating on a damp floor, mold and mildew may appear on it.

How to choose?

The quality of the result obtained is largely determined by the correct selection of products. When choosing tiles, you need to focus on the size, manufacturer, design and level of wear resistance. Dimensions can vary significantly, for example, thickness can vary from 1.6 to 3.2 millimeters. The most popular dimension in terms of width and length is considered to be 30 by 60. It is much easier to work with such products and get a more practical result.

But this practice involves using a simple design, which will not bring complete satisfaction in terms of patterns. For the more advanced, it is better to use triangular and rectangular tiles, but this will require a professional craftsman who has experience in laying. In this case, there is more opportunity in terms of the result obtained. Currently, there are a large number of different variations in color and texture on the market.

Quartz vinyl tiles can be triangular, rectangular, square

An interesting fact is that some craftsmen try to cut the tiles into their component elements. For this, curved technology is used, which is available only at the factory or in specialized companies. This helps create an unusual design result. The cost of such products will be many times higher, but the appearance will look like an exclusive coating.

Features of the material

Please note that before you start laying, you should prepare the floor surface in advance - perform mechanical cleaning of dust and debris, as well as completely dismantle the old covering.

Next comes the process of leveling the floor surface, if necessary. This can be done by using acrylic putty. The main requirement for the surface is that it be perfectly smooth, otherwise all the work will go down the drain. The humidity of the floor on which the tile material will be laid should not exceed 5%.

Pros and cons of quartz vinyl tiles

If we talk about the advantages of innovative floor coverings, the following points should be noted among them:

• High material strength and wear resistance. Long service life, warranty from the manufacturer will be more than 15 years.
• The tile is extremely pleasant to the touch and gives a feeling of comfort/warmth when walking on it.
• At high temperatures (from 40 to 60 degrees) it will not release harmful substances to the body. It is for this reason that it is often used to install heated floors in apartments.
• Non-absorbent and non-slip surface, resistant to moisture. This is an ideal covering for the bathroom, kitchen, swimming pool or toilet.
• Resistance to frost makes it possible to use the tiles outdoors, for example, on a veranda, balcony or path in the garden.
• When walking, there are no extraneous sounds that can sometimes be heard when walking on a ceramic tile floor.
• High inertness to chemicals and low risk of fire make it possible to use quartz vinyl coating for garages.
• There is resistance to chemical damage that can be restored.
• Wide range of materials and textures. You can easily choose a pattern that will imitate natural stone, grass, wood, etc.

And now some disadvantages of quartz vinyl tiles:

• The coating should only be laid on a perfectly flat surface, as otherwise you can get a “wave” effect.
• An increased level of softness of the material, due to which marks or dents from heavy objects may remain on the tiles.
• Among the manufacturers of such finishing materials there are many unknown brands, and you can often find low-quality coatings that will quickly begin to delaminate and fade in places exposed to the sun's rays.
• High price indicator.
• Despite the fact that the material does not emit harmful substances, the tiles consist exclusively of artificial materials.
• There is often a pattern mismatch.
• The weight of the material is 1 m2 weighs about 7 kg.

Now let’s look at what types of material there are.

Varieties and characteristics

If you plan to build on the color palette and texture of the finishing material, then it is divided into two main groups:

1. Floor covering in the form of tiles. Square tiles can be of different sizes - sometimes 0.3 * 0.3 meters, 0.6 * 0.6 meters, and if we are talking about rectangles, then 0.6 * 0.3 meters. The thickness also varies - from 1.5 mm to 5.5 mm.
2. The floor covering is in the form of tiles, which is very similar to laminate. As for the shape, most often manufacturers present only one size option - 1.22 * 0.18 meters, and the thickness of the material can be from 2.5 to 5.5 mm.

If we take into account the installation method, quartz vinyl coatings are divided into the following subtypes:

• A finishing material that can be fixed with an adhesive composition. Adhesive installation is only suitable for square tiles.
• Tiles with locking joints.
• Quartz vinyl tiles with a self-adhesive backing. From the inside you should carefully remove the protective film, under which there will be a layer of glue. Press the material well enough with the adhesive side to the floor, and the tile will be securely fixed in the place you need.

If we take into account the abrasion of the floor covering, then it was divided into classes. For use in apartments, material of class 31-33 is suitable. For public places with high traffic, you will need tiles with wear resistance class t 34 to 43. In a house, for the hallway, the ideal choice would be a coating of class 34, and the same coating is suitable for a water-heated floor in the house. Yes, the higher the wear resistance class, the better the quality of the coating.

Quartz vinyl floor tiles consist of the following layers:

• The base layer (located at the very bottom) is made of polyvinyl chloride. It helps ensure reliable adhesion of the tiles to the base of the surface.
• Glass fiber (fiber) is a layer that performs the function of reinforcement.
• Formation containing quartz (sand) and vinyl. Helps provide thermal insulation and strength to the material.
• A decorative layer that creates texture. As a rule, this is a drawing that is applied using photo printing.
• The topmost layer is polyurethane and contains aluminum oxide. It will prevent various mechanical damage and make the tile non-slip.

In addition to the basic elements that are included in the layers of tiles, additional components such as plasticizers, dyes, lubricants and stabilizers are allowed. Despite the multi-layer nature, the coating is quite thin. The technology for making tiles was invented by the Japanese, but Korea became the leader in production. If we talk about the scope of application, then quartz vinyl coating can be used in almost any room, the main thing is that the air temperature is not lower than -30 and not more than +60 degrees. If you take into account the fact that quartz vinyl does not contain melamine or phenolic resin, which are harmful to the body, tiles based on this can even be laid on the floor in a child’s room.

How to choose the right one

When choosing a quartz vinyl coating, you should first decide on the class of wear resistance. Some rooms require a grade of 33-34, and sometimes a material with a grade of 43 may be required. If you need to choose tiles yourself, then pay attention to brands that have proven themselves well in the construction market. These include Vinilаm, Finеflооr, Armstrong, Rikеtt Fоорing, Аrt Tile, and among Chinese manufacturers Wоndеfull Vinul Fоооr was able to establish itself well . In addition, when choosing, it is important to pay attention to the method of installing the coating, the color scheme and texture of the material, which helps to translate various unusual design solutions into reality.

Please note that it is important to remember that if you buy suspiciously cheap tile flooring, you may even harm your own health, because it is made from recycled materials.

Main manufacturers

In order for a product to be of high quality, it is often necessary to choose the right manufacturer. This allows you to combine the price tag, the beauty of the result and the quality of the coating. Among the popular manufacturers are the following.

1. Tile is a Korean brand that creates a product with increased wear resistance.
   The products have an affordable price tag, but the texture is not varied. Among other useful properties, one can highlight antifungal impregnation, which allows the product to be used in medical centers. The flooring meets European standards and can be an alternative to many other brands. quartz vinyl tile Tile
2. Decoria is a unique tile that can be used in a wide variety of environments. Increased adhesion suggests use not only for flooring, but also for finishing large areas of walls. It is important to note that the products presented are accompanied by European eco-friendly certificates on the domestic market.
   Quartz vinyl tiles from Decoria are of high quality

   quartz vinyl tile Decoria

3. Vinilam is a popular manufacturer that offers the end consumer a significant range of products.
   It is impossible to find similar products in terms of design from any other brand. In the catalog you can find coatings for any technical room. But for this beauty you will have to give up significant material assets. Vinilam quartz vinyl tiles
4. Alpine is a simple, relatively cheap tile that has a simple installation system. It is important to comply with some conditions that are prescribed in the instructions. The latter is very carefully painted, even photos of the masonry process are given.

   Alpine products are considered the most budget-friendly, but their installation is quite simple

   Alpine quartz vinyl tiles

5. Tarkett - now the presented option is considered the most popular in the form of an excellent combination of price and quality. The products are intended for cladding any premises and are characterized by increased environmental friendliness. A huge selection of textures and color schemes guarantees the selection of flooring to suit any overall design. It is advisable to purchase products with a reserve, since it is difficult to pick up later if there is not enough.
6. Finefloor is a Belgian manufacturer that offers products with increased heat and sound insulation.
   Some users note very pleasant sensations when touching their feet. There is a slight springing effect. In addition, the products are characterized by high wear resistance and versatility of use. Finefloor quartz vinyl tiles

Finefloor is a Belgian manufacturer that offers tiles with increased heat and sound insulation

When choosing, you need to focus on the price tag. For quality products you will have to pay about 15-50 dollars per square meter.

How is the installation quality checked?

Installation control must be constant and occur both during direct installation and after completion of work:

attach a two-meter straight strip to the coating and move it in all directions. Look carefully to see if there is any clearance between the floor and the control bar. The permissible gap is 4 mm.

Check the curvature of the seams using a marking cord: stretch it along the joints and determine the places of greatest deviation of the line of joints of adjacent tiles from the cord with a ruler. The acceptable value is 1 mm.

Also, use a ruler to measure all tile joints: their width should be no more than 1 mm.

The quality of adhesion of the decorative coating to the base can be checked by lightly tapping on the surface of the lamellas and determining by the characteristic dull sound where the tiles lag behind the floor.

The result of a visual inspection of the cladding should be the absence of stains on decorative elements, unfilled seams or distortions in the design.

Decorative products made from quartz vinyl are universal in use and are suitable not only for covering the subfloor, but also as an alternative to wallpaper. Since the polymer material can withstand exposure to negative temperatures, its installation is permissible even outside the building, on the street.

Determining the optimal thickness

As noted earlier, the floor covering can have different thicknesses. In an apartment, it is better to use products that do not exceed 2.5 millimeters. The optimal solution is considered to be an option with wear resistance of 33-43. This is associated with justified savings, because industrial enterprises will not have the same loads as in shopping centers.

Pay attention to such a factor as weight. The greater the thickness, the greater the load on the floor slabs. This is a significant factor that is important to consider. It is recommended not to use consumables of large thickness, which will avoid creating additional load on the floor.

It is better not to choose too thick tiles for laying in an apartment

It is possible to lay tiles correctly provided that the floor is properly prepared. It is important to make it level to ensure efficiency and quality of installation. As for abrasion, there are several classifications in this direction. When selecting products, try to select an option that falls into the “T” category. Similar products are available on the domestic market, and without increasing the thickness, they have higher quality characteristics in terms of resistance to wear, including chemical wear.

Flammability indicators deserve special consideration. In this case, it is advisable to buy products that are marked G2 and D2. This indicates an acceptable level of fire resistance and smoke generation. The presented parameters are perfect for home use. As for the external design, you will have to trust the design only through your sixth sense. It all comes down to individual preferences. You may like multi-colored products or ones that imitate natural stone.

There is a wide range of quartz vinyl tiles on the market, decorated in various designs - you can choose the most suitable option for you

Key technology for laying tiles

When mechanical connections are available, there is no need to leave gaps. The grooves are cut only for the tiles of the first row near the wall surface. Do not resort to tapping with a hammer to avoid damage. It will be enough to simply lightly tap the tile with your palm after laying the material.

If there is an adhesive lock, installation is carried out from the corner part. At the same time, it is necessary to monitor it. So that the tiles lie exactly along the line, without any displacement. If an error is detected, the tiles are moved apart and the error is corrected before the glue dries.

Main features of installation work for quartz vinyl tiles in the form of “laminate” sheets

To carry out renovation work in the hallway or on the street, wide tiles, which are similar to laminate, are often used. To install it, you must choose one of two methods: lock or glue. As for the first, here the fixation is carried out using an adhesive composition. In the second option, as in the case of laminate, special grooves and locks are used. Most installers prefer the second solution, as it is characterized by increased speed of work, as well as the ability to dismantle it if necessary.

If glue is used, then it is important to purchase a more modern and unique adhesive composition that will cope with the tasks. Typically, preference in this direction is given to acrylic or rubber. Often recommendations regarding the choice of glue are offered on the instruction box. This greatly simplifies many nuances and problems.

Laminate tiles can be laid with glue, but there are also options with a lock

Instructions

Regardless of the method, the following work must be done.

1. Carry out preparatory work that involves removing the old coating and leveling the base. There should be no gaps left on the surface; a new screed is often required.
2. Once the surface is prepared, you need to decide how the tiles will be positioned. To do this, the starting point is determined and the line is specified.
3. Then glue is applied to the floor surface and masonry is carried out. It is important to roll the roller over the surface several times to smooth out the coating. As for the locks, there is no need for additional elaboration of each element.

Before laying tiles you need to prepare the surface

As for cutting corners, everything should be done in advance. All excess glue should be removed before it dries. Otherwise, the appearance will be ruined. When performing masonry, it is advisable to comply with humidity requirements. Some experts recommend working at humidity levels of up to 6 percent. The remaining recommendations are written directly on the instructions that come with the tile.

Preparatory work for installation in the apartment

Preparing the base

The initial stage of work is to level the base and ensure the necessary strength and stability of the floor, which is done by pouring a screed (concrete) or a self-leveling mixture.

The tiles can be fixed on a wooden surface: sheets of plywood, moisture-resistant chipboards or oriented strand boards, followed by applying a primer mixture to them.

The prepared base, regardless of the surface material, is checked for humidity, the level of which should be no more than 5%. If the indicator is higher, additional drying will be required.

Marking

Marking begins with determining the center of the room: the desired point is at the intersection of diagonals coming from opposite corners of the room.

Then you should draw two lines perpendicular to each other and parallel to the walls through the midpoint: the result is a grid of 4 equal rectangles.

The cladding of the open part of the room should consist of solid elements; cut tiles are less noticeable in wall areas. Installation begins from the center, gradually filling the corners.

Quartz vinyl lamellas with a locking connection are laid along the wall, from a corner distant from the entrance.

Expert advice

Some aspects come only with experience, so correct and effective masonry requires the use of the following tips and recommendations.

1. The ideal drying time for the primer is 1-6 hours, after which it is necessary to carry out direct installation.
2. If the tile involves drawing a pattern, then the procedure should be performed from the center. In some cases, you can start from the doorway.
3. Cutting tiles to avoid obstacles is done with a regular knife. It is important to understand that the cutout must be made according to the actual dimensions. As for the shaped holes, for this it is better to use a special pattern, which should be at hand by the master.

   If necessary, quartz vinyl tiles can be cut with a regular stationery knife

4. It is advisable not to carry out work immediately after purchasing the flooring. It is advisable to wait 48 hours for the material to “adapt.” Products should not be removed from packaging.
5. It is believed that a concrete base is a poor base for the tiles in question. But this can be easily eliminated by using special substrates.
6. Before carrying out the work you will need a special tool. This includes a regular pencil, a notched spatula for the adhesive mass, a sharp knife, and a special roller for smoothing.

It is better not to start laying immediately after purchasing the tiles - the material should “rest”

Note! The product practically does not expand in damp areas. This means there is no need to leave gaps between the tiles and the walls. Thus, the products are excellent for the implementation of flooring in all rooms of a modern apartment.

Another tip concerns heated floors. If the latter are installed, it is advisable to carry out installation after 10 days of operation of the system, which will allow the surface to warm up and ensure the necessary conditions for laying. The temperature must be at least 18 degrees. After the tiles are laid, you need to keep the heat at the appropriate level for three days. After this, heating can be used at any convenient time.

warm floor

If the tiles are laid on top of a heated floor, it is necessary that the same temperature (at least 18 degrees Celsius) be maintained for at least three days

Laying loose material

Where the intersection of the axial guides is marked is the starting point for laying. The connection density is maintained.

If necessary, you can use glue if:

• The coating will have to experience quite heavy loads;
• The base was not leveled enough;
• It was not possible to completely remove the dusty environment;
• Excessively dry surface.

How to lay quartz vinyl tiles yourself: detailed instructions

Lock tile

Let's figure out how to properly lay interlocking quartz vinyl tiles.

Important! Interlocking tiles are not fixed to the floor in any way (with glue, screws, etc.) and are laid in a floating manner. This, of course, greatly simplifies installation. Fixation is only necessary when laying on the ceiling or walls.

Step 1. First you need to prepare the surface - remove the old coating, remove all debris and dirt. If there are small holes, it is better to fill them.

Step 2. It is better to lay such tiles from the corner on the right side towards you (if you are facing the wall). The material should be laid from right to left, with the grooves facing you. It is permissible to leave a gap of 3-5 mm between the wall and the tile. After the first row is formed, you can proceed to the second.

How to lay interlocking quartz vinyl tiles

By the way! You can resort to the “brickwork” principle, i.e. lay the tiles not entirely next to each other, but in parts, having previously cut them using a stationery knife. It will look more beautiful.

Step 3 . The tiles of the second row are inserted into the tiles of the first row, and for greater strength you can lightly pad them with the palm of your hand. A hammer or mallet cannot be used.

One tile must fit into another

Actually, that's all. As you can see, the installation of such tiles is very simple, and even a beginner can handle it.

Adhesive tiles

Installation of such quartz vinyl tiles is a little more difficult, but it is also possible to cope with it.

Step 1. Prepare the base, as in the previous case - it should be free of debris.

Step 2. It is worth drawing a center line, for example, in the center of the room or at the edge. This will simplify the process of laying tiles. It is along this line that you need to start placing the material. To do this, apply glue to the base with a spatula, leave it for 15-30 minutes to dry, and then place the tile on top of it.

If there is too much glue and it comes out between the tiles, you should remove it immediately - this will be more difficult to do in the future. Please note that the tiles should be laid tightly at once and preferably in the form of “brickwork”, i.e. with an offset of half or a third.

You can start laying from the wall, or you can start from the middle of the room

Step 3. When you reach the wall, you can cut the tile to fit using a utility knife.

All is ready! It is better not to walk on such flooring for about a day, but to arrange the furniture within 48 hours. After this time, you can confidently carry out your usual activities indoors.

Preparing the base before laying tiles

The floor surface must be properly prepared before installation work begins. In addition, you will need to make markings.

As for the tile material, it should not only be unpacked, but also made into piles. They will have to undergo a short acclimatization indoors for 24 hours.

• The floor surface for installation is leveled, strengthened and dried. Before laying, check the cleanliness and complete absence of characteristic damage, namely, cracks or sagging, chips or pits.
• Typically, in practice, a screed is made of cement and sand if the base itself is made of concrete. If the base is wooden, then in this case you will need sheets. It is good to use either plywood or chipboard. Then putty is used to go over both the mounting holes and the seam areas.

The humidity of the surface to be laid should not exceed five percent. If installation is carried out using the adhesive method, the surface will additionally need to be primed.

Reviews about quartz vinyl tiles

You can find the most contradictory reviews on various forums. And this is no coincidence. Some specialists simply do not know how to work with such material, others buy too cheap products, and still others succeed. We invite you to read some of the reviews below.

Inga, Moscow:

“The tiles were laid a year ago, we had time to appreciate all the advantages and disadvantages over the course of different seasons. In the summer the tiles are pleasing, they have no flaws, but in the winter they are disappointing. You simply cannot walk on this flooring barefoot. Just socks and slippers, or better yet, all together.”

Many people who have used quartz vinyl tiles in their homes are satisfied with this flooring

Nikita, Yaroslavl:

“While renovating the house, I decided to listen to the advice and make the floor from quartz vinyl and put PVC tiles on the walls. I was not disappointed, since no problems have been observed for the past 5 years.”

Ivan, Voronezh:

“I’ve been eyeing this type of tile for a long time, but was often put off by the installation technology. Lock variations are often supplied to the market with poor quality, but with glue you need a good craftsman. As a result, I purchased quartz vinyl tiles with locks, since laziness won. The laying was really carried out quickly and without any problems. Let's see what will happen next".

Nikolay, Belgorod

“I saw quartz vinyl tiles from friends in Moscow and decided to implement them at home. But my wife and I read on the forum that there are contraindications regarding the harmfulness of this floor covering. There is no real evidence, but it is still better to abandon the idea. As for the price, we were completely satisfied with it.”

Many people are attracted by the low cost of such material, which, however, is not synonymous with low quality

It is important to note that the reviewed reviews only partially allow us to understand at least something about the product. But the following positions are fully visible: firstly, the tiles are supplied to the market much cheaper than their analogues, secondly, they are easier to carry out installation work, thirdly, there is a significant margin of safety, which guarantees long service life.

Consumer Reviews

If you do a little analysis of the reviews from buyers and builders who work with such coatings, you can clearly conclude that the material attracts buyers even despite its high cost. This is due to the fact that the tile will not crack or break even if a heavy object falls on it. In addition, consumers have already appreciated the fact that due to the large range of textures simulating different materials, you can choose many unusual and interesting options for yourself, for example, for finishing the floor surface to look like slate, granite, marble or even natural wood.

It happens that some people have certain difficulties when laying tiles, but all this ultimately pays off with a large number of other positive qualities of the coating. The most popular shapes are rectangle and square. A floor made from such a finishing material will give the owner of an apartment or house a reliable coating for many years that can withstand temperature changes and is not afraid of high levels of humidity. It will be enough to take proper care of it.

Price

We invite you to consider the approximate cost of such material.

Cost of quartz vinyl tiles

As can be seen from the examples presented, the cost of quartz vinyl tiles can vary greatly - from about 800 rubles to 2-3 thousand. Of course, the table shows only an approximate price - a more accurate one depends on the design of the tile, its thickness, and the specific manufacturer. It is also possible that in offline stores you will encounter a markup on the material.

Floor care

The material in question has another significant advantage that was not mentioned earlier - ease of maintenance. The floor covering can be washed using any “chemicals”, and you can also use a vacuum cleaner, broom, and so on. The product is not afraid of scratches, so caustic stains can be easily removed using a metal sponge. If somehow you managed to damage the surface, then you can easily replace it with a new one.

After reading all the positions in terms of technical parameters and reviews, you will not have a mixed impression. Practice shows that the presented selection is in the same line with other analogues. So you actually get a practical result.

Caring for quartz vinyl tiles is very easy

Required Tools

Every job requires certain tools. Every tiler should have everything they need. Therefore, in this article we want to tell you in more detail what a novice craftsman needs to purchase who will be laying quartz vinyl tiles.

To do this you will need the following tools:

• Roulette;
• Square;
• Rope;
• Primer;
• Putty;
• Cement;
• Glue;
• Putty knife;
• Mallet;
• Construction knife;
• Roller;
• Rag.

This is everything you need for work.

Very often, craftsmen use acrylic glue for laying tiles. This product does not have a specific smell. It has a high-quality combination of materials.

What is better to choose: linoleum or tiles

Currently, linoleum is considered one of the most popular coatings, which is used in various institutions, offices, and also in apartments. Consumables are presented in a wide variety, and are also distinguished by reasonable prices, ease of installation and maintenance. If you compare quartz vinyl tiles and linoleum, you get the following.

Based on such a comparative table, we can draw a conclusion about a more acceptable and practical solution.

If we compare such tiles and linoleum, we can conclude that quartz vinyl tiles have more advantages

What is the tile made of?

Quartz vinyl tile is a multilayer material based on the following components:

1. It is based on a layer of polyvinyl chloride , due to which the material adheres securely to the floor;
2. Fiberglass , which acts as a reinforcing element;
3. Quartz and vinyl serve as the main layer . Thanks to these materials, the tiles are not only durable, but also have heat-insulating properties;
4. The upper base of the tile is covered with decorative materials , onto which various designs are applied;
5. To protect the tiles from mechanical stress, the top finishing layer consists of polyurethane with aluminum oxide . This material also makes the tiles non-slip.

The composition also contains many other materials that are absolutely natural and environmentally friendly. The birthplace of quartz vinyl tile production is Japan.

Design ideas

The modern market offers a wide selection of textures and colors, which expands the possibilities for flights of fancy. In some cases, you can mix several directions and styles, or you can implement everything to match the walls. In residential premises, the coating is usually selected according to the decoration of the walls. They often like to use imitation marble or natural stone.

In larger rooms, including living rooms, wood-effect tiles should be used. A lighter variation, including white marble or natural stone, is suitable for the kitchen. If the design is implemented in classic or modern style, then “wood” is also used here. For a children's room, it is better to use the skills of specialists and create an unusual design. Visual expansion into the room and a good atmosphere are created by milky and beige tiles. Currently, products in yellow, pink, orange and other colors, which are distinguished by their brightness and richness, are often used to cover the floor.

Wood-look quartz vinyl tiles will look good in living rooms

Some designers recommend approaching everything outside the box, using gradation of rooms into color zones. This is perfectly implemented in studio apartments. In any case, when decorating a house using the tiles in question, you will need knowledge of the basics of creating an interior. This includes issues of visual expansion, gradation into zones, and so on.

As for specific styles, loft, hi-tech and Scandinavian style are considered the most popular in this area. In the first case, a stone-shaped canvas is used, in the second, matte tiles with a single color, in the latter, the dominance of white shades is assumed. In some cases, you can try mixing styles.

Details of the question. Installation

Before you start laying the coating, it is worth preparing a set of tools, which will include accessories such as a pencil, building level, tape measure, sponge, marking cord, roller, sharp knife, spatula and metal square.

The stages of laying tiles are as follows:

• Before starting the process, you should let the material rest for a while in the room where you plan to use it.
• Marking. This is done using a standard coated cord - the surface should be divided into four identical parts.
• Next, apply the adhesive and let it dry for 30 minutes. The composition should be applied with a special notched trowel, and installation should begin from the entrance to the room and move towards the center.
• Control over the laying of quartz vinyl tiles should be carried out using the four lines drawn earlier.
• Laying and fixing the tiles is carried out using a pressure roller to remove excess glue and air bubbles.
• For tiles with a pattern, there are indicators from the manufacturers on the back side to help you understand the order of laying.
• Place the material tightly, square to square.
• When the work is finished, you should use a sponge soaked in ethyl alcohol to remove any remaining adhesive.

Interestingly, after installation, you can immediately walk on the new floor, but you can place pieces of furniture on it only after a couple of days. It is also best to wash the floor from dust after 5 days.