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Advertising supplement provided by Domco Tarkett Commercial

Sheet Categories

Inlaid sheet flooring combines inlaid vinyl chips in a matrix that is usually attached to a felt (or vinyl, or fiberglass) backing, frequently with a protective topcoat. With inlaid sheet flooring, the color or pattern is an integral part of the wear layer. It is specified as an ASTM F-1303 Type II flooring.

Cushioned sheet flooring is overlain by a printed foam layer that creates a textured surface that can replicate, for instance, a brick design. The imprint on the foam layer is accomplished through what is known as “chemical embossing.” Its application is mostly in residential and light commercial projects like doctor or dentist offices. Cushioned products, because they are generally very soft, may not wear as well as other products and because of the foam layer, may not meet fire code requirements for large commercial projects.

Increased vinyl content in Vinyl Enhanced Tile provides the superior durability and easy maintenance needed in environments such as public libraries.

“Homogeneous” sheet flooring is characterized by a consistent color and pattern throughout the thickness of the flooring. It has what is known as a solid wear layer. The wear layer equals the total thickness of the product. Homogeneous flooring must have a binder (vinyl) content of at least 50 percent.

“Heterogeneous” sheet flooring is a laminated product, most often topped by a clear wear layer, frequently simulating wood, stone, or other natural materials. It may be cushioned to enhance sound absorption and/or underfoot comfort.

Performance-backed sheet flooring is another laminated product, either homogeneous or heterogeneous in manufacture with a backing of closed-cell PVC foam from 40 mils to a half-in. in thickness for use in applications where increased shock absorption, sound control or warmth are factors.

Slip-retardant sheet flooring, either heat-welded or flash-coved, offers a seamlessness not available with tile. It also, typically, has a higher resistance to staining than tile. Some manufacturers offer a higher degree of stain resistance. These products are usually urethane-enhanced.

Static-control sheet flooring offers the same dissipative characteristics as SDT flooring, but is more sanitary. Common applications are hospital operating rooms and clean rooms.