EN 669:1997

Overview

EN 669:1997 - adopted nationally as SIST EN 669:1999 - is a CEN standard that specifies a test method for assessing the dimensional stability of linoleum tiles when exposed to changes in atmospheric humidity. The standard applies to resilient floor coverings and defines how to determine size changes of linoleum tiles caused by moisture variations in the air. It is referenced in the ICS category 97.150 Non‑textile floor coverings.

Key topics

The standard focuses on practical, reproducible laboratory procedures rather than design limits. Core technical topics and requirements include:

• Scope and application: defines that the method applies to linoleum tiles used as resilient floor coverings.
• Sample preparation: description of specimen selection and conditioning before testing (general requirement for consistent, representative samples).
• Humidity conditioning cycles: procedures to expose samples to controlled changes in atmospheric humidity (the standard specifies the method rather than prescriptive environmental values in this summary).
• Dimensional measurement: requirements for measuring tile dimensions before and after humidity exposure and calculating dimensional change.
• Reporting: information that should be recorded and reported so results are repeatable and comparable (test conditions, specimen identification, measured changes).

Note: This summary avoids inventing specific numeric test conditions or acceptance criteria not provided in the source document.

Applications

EN 669 is intended to provide a standardized, comparable way to assess how linoleum tiles respond to humidity changes. Practical uses include:

• Quality control during manufacturing to detect batch variability related to dimensional stability.
• Product development for material formulation and backing options that reduce moisture‑related movement.
• Compliance testing for manufacturers who need documented, standardized test results for technical datasheets or certification.
• Specification and procurement for architects, building engineers, and clients who require evidence of material stability in environments with varying humidity (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens, public buildings).
• Independent test laboratories offering standardized reports to suppliers and specifiers.

Who uses this

• Flooring manufacturers and R&D teams
• Independent testing laboratories and certification bodies
• Architects, specifiers, and building consultants
• Procurement and quality assurance teams in construction and facility management

Related standards

EN 669 complements other standards for resilient floor coverings and linoleum that address mechanical, physical and environmental performance (e.g., abrasion, reaction to heat, and general product specifications). Users typically apply EN 669 alongside broader product standards and national regulations to build a complete conformity and performance profile.

Keywords: EN 669, linoleum tiles, dimensional stability, humidity testing, resilient floor coverings, CEN standard, test method, quality control.