Classroom Marmoleum Flooring Solutions

Classroom Marmoleum Flooring Solutions

Schools are commonly high traffic areas that require hard-wearing and strong floors. We install marmoleum and vinyl flooring that is specifically designed for schools, universities and more, as the floors are thicker than most domestic vinyl floors. This vinyl also has a high degree of slip-resistance, making it a good option for school flooring as it lowers the risk of accidents. In addition to school floor installation and school floor replacement, we also provide existing tile flooring removal and disposal.

When choosing a Marmoleum Flooring Solutions contractor, focus on the following attributes. Marmoleum is a high-quality resilient floor covering, but the quality of the finished installation depends heavily on the preparation and skill of the installer. Forbo itself stresses that subfloor preparation has a major effect on appearance, performance and durability.

Key attributes to look for

1. Marmoleum installation experience
   • Proven experience specifically with Marmoleum/linoleum rather than simply general carpet or vinyl flooring.
   • A portfolio of completed commercial projects.
   • Experience with the particular Marmoleum format required — sheet, modular tiles, Decibel, Ohmex, etc.

Skilled and properly trained installers

• Look for fitters with recognised flooring training and specific linoleum experience.
• Forbo works with FITA on specialist Marmoleum installation training, reflecting the importance of specialist fitting skills.

Excellent subfloor preparation

• This is one of the most important factors.
• The contractor should inspect, clean, level and prepare the substrate properly.
• They should carry out appropriate moisture testing before installation. Forbo specifies that substrates should be clean, smooth, sound and permanently dry.

Attention to seams and detailing

• Good Marmoleum installation requires accurate cutting and tight, neat joints.
• The contractor should understand when to use net-fit seams and when hot welding is appropriate. Forbo notes that welding isn’t required for most installations, but can be appropriate for healthcare and other applications with particular hygiene requirements.

Correct adhesives and installation materials

• They should use adhesives and preparation products appropriate for the specific Marmoleum product and substrate.
• They should be able to explain what adhesive system they’re proposing and why.

Commercial project capability
For schools, offices, healthcare facilities and other commercial premises, look for a contractor experienced in:

• Working around other trades
• Phased installations
• Working outside normal business hours
• Large floor areas
• Minimising disruption
• Meeting project deadlines

Good understanding of site conditions

• A professional installer should check temperature, humidity, substrate condition and moisture before starting.
• Marmoleum materials also need appropriate conditioning before installation.

High-quality finishing
Look for attention to:

• Skirting and coving
• Doorways and thresholds
• Corners
• Stairs
• Expansion/detail joints
• Transitions to other floor coverings
• Clean, consistent seams

Strong references and portfolio
Ask for examples of recent Marmoleum projects, preferably similar to yours. A good contractor should be comfortable providing references from commercial customers.

Clear quotation
The quotation should clearly identify:

• Marmoleum product and colour
• Floor preparation
• Moisture testing
• Adhesives
• Installation
• Welding, if required
• Skirting/coving
• Floor protection
• Waste removal
• VAT
• Any exclusions

Understanding of maintenance
A good contractor shouldn’t simply install the floor and leave. They should explain initial cleaning, ongoing maintenance and how to protect the floor during the early curing period. Forbo provides specific cleaning and maintenance guidance for Marmoleum.

Warranty and after-sales service
Check what guarantee the contractor provides on workmanship, and separately understand the manufacturer’s product warranty. Make sure you know who is responsible if a problem develops.