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Posted on: 08-24-2022 by Floor Covering Media

During a discussion about flooring solutions, some of us experience difficulty when attempting to distinguish key differences between linoleum and vinyl. Each of these surfaces have differences in appearance, care & cleaning, durability & maintenance, cost, lifespan, sizes, resale value, comfort & sound; as well as environmental considerations. It might be helpful for you to learn something valuable about each of the materials before making a commitment.

Linoleum was invented around 1860. While linoleum is made from all natural, biodegradable materials such as linseed oil, pine rosin, limestone, cork powder, wood dust and jute, synthetic versions of linoleum are available as sheet or tile. Linoleum flooring ranges in price per square foot; but tile linoleum's more affordable ($3-$5) than sheet linoleum ($5-$7). Linoleum last at least two decades before it must be replaced. It is a rigid material; so, cutting it is not as easy, as vinyl. But it's this rigidity that makes linoleum flooring more durable than vinyl flooring. Linoleum flooring is resistant to moisture, but not as more moisture resistant as vinyl flooring. It must be sealed every few years to maintain it's moisture resistance. Natural linoleum flooring is more heat resistant vinyl flooring and it does not contain VOC's.

Vinyl flooring wasn't invented until the 1920's. Vinyl flooring is mostly made of PolyVinyl Chloride resin. Vinyl tile, not much unlike linoleum, ranges in price per square foot; but it is less affordable ($3.50) than sheet vinyl ($0.50-$2). Vinyl (tile or sheet) should be expected to have a lifespan of 10-20 years. Vinyl is flexible, which makes installation easier. Vinyl's waterproof. Vinyl is resistant to mold and mildew. It is also available in more colors and patterns.

Linoleum and vinyl are easy to clean and ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Though vinyl may be better suited for bathroom installations than linoleum; because linoleum requires resealing and it's not as moisture resistant as vinyl.

On the other hand, linoleum may be a better choice for the kitchen because it's heat resistant. If you're on a tight budget, vinyl may be your selection. However, if you are considering the long term costs, linoleum may cost more money up front; though save you money over the decades. If you're installing the flooring yourself, vinyl would be easier than linoleum. Installing linoleum is not as easy as vinyl. However, over time, linoleum is more durable than vinyl.

Commercial linoleum shoppers should remember to consider liquid linoleum, which is poured directly over the substrate. Liquid linoleum could prove to be an ideal surface solution in hospitals. Curious readers can learn more about the origins and applications of linoleum and vinyl, as well as the best brands.

While this is very interesting and valuable information, the decision is yours. We have provided a few links to suppliers of linoleum and vinyl flooring, which may be useful deciding on the supplier ideally suited for your flooring project.