Resilient flooring is a classification of floors with qualities that make it 'bounce back.' Typically, a resilient floor will resist stains and water and is comfortable to stand on for long periods of time. Resilient floors are often seen in institutional structures such as schools and hospitals.
Rubber
The most expensive type of resilient flooring is rubber. However, all rubber floors are black, and so it is used in limited applications. Manufacturers of rubber floors will often provide the option of lock-in pieces to provide the consumer optional temporary placement.
Cork
A comparable material to rubber is cork. With a variety of colors and patterns, cork is a great option for homeowners.
Vinyl or Linoleum
The most common materials used for resilient flooring are vinyl or linoleum. Both products come in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes. Linoleum, a natural option made of linseed oil ('lin'-oleum), tree resin, cork dust and pigments, comes in sheets and tiles. Vinyl floors are very versatile and available in a wide range of applications. A popular vinyl option is the plank, which simulates expensive hardwood floors.
Sometimes, in a workplace, you will see a combination of flooring. For example, in a hair salon, while the floor is a resilient vinyl or linoleum, the workstations usually have additional padding for the hairdressers provided by areas of rubber resilient flooring mats laid on top.
Source: www.DoItYourself.com
