Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Which is Better?（一）
Jun 17, 2024
What is Linoleum Flooring?
Linoleum flooring is made from all-natural materials, including linseed oil, rosin, broken down wood, and others. This is one of linoleum's highest selling points – it's all-natural without emitting any harmful chemicals.
What is linoleum flooring best known for? Resiliency – the floor is flexible and has some "give" to it. That makes it possible to install linoleum in areas where harder flooring options like tile and natural hardwood would not do well. Plus, it can last up to 40 years.
Linoleum might be best known for its sheet form, but it's also available in tiles and planks. Sheets have to be glued down and virtually always require a professional to get the job done. On the other hand, linoleum tiles and planks feature interlocking tongue-and-groove edges, allowing you to float the linoleum over the subfloor without any glue, just like vinyl planks and tiles.
Having been around since the 1800s, linoleum is one of the oldest and most classic flooring options on the market. But in the 1950s, the classic linoleum kitchen (you know, the black-and-white checkered look) started to become less sought-after.
Why? Well, vinyl was new. And cheaper. Thus began the decline in linoleum's popularity and the confusion of whether vinyl and linoleum are the same thing.
Linoleum Flooring Pros
What are the perks of choosing a linoleum floor? Here's what you can enjoy:
Made of natural materials:
Linoleum floors consist of a naturally occurring substance called linseed oil, which is extracted from flax seeds. Linseed oil is then mixed with wood flour, cork dust, and other natural and renewable materials.
Anti-static properties:
Being made of biodegradable material, linoleum floors have low static resistance. This is especially important for commercial properties where static can be harmful to employees or equipment.
Long-lasting: With proper care and maintenance, linoleum floors can last up to 40 years!
Consistent color: Patterns and colors are present throughout the tile or sheet, so the design will show even in worn-down spots. While this may limit some design options, you won't have to worry about the color fading.
Heat insulating: No need to mess with an underlayment, linoleum flooring rolls will trap in the heat all on their own.
Anti-microbial: This material is anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic, a great choice for everyone in the home.
Linoleum Flooring Cons
What are the disadvantages of linoleum flooring? Here are a few things to consider:
Susceptible to water damage: If you're using linoleum in a moisture-prone area, such as a bathroom or kitchen, the floor needs to be sealed periodically. Flooding and even excessive humidity can severely damage linoleum flooring.
Durability: Because linoleum is so soft, it's easier to scratch and gouge. Sharp edges such as high heels or the edges of furniture can damage the surface if you're not careful.
Maintenance: Linoleum must be sealed one or two times per year. If your floor doesn't have a coating, linoleum will also need waxing every two or three years.
Not DIY-friendly: Installing linoleum sheets requires a professional installer. Since it's such a stiff material, installing linoleum is not typically a DIY project.
Yellowing: Linoleum can gradually yellow as it gets older or if it's not cleaned with the proper products, so even though it can last for many years, that age can start to show.
