Although they share the same characteristics, vinyl and linoleum flooring are different in many aspects. They both have their distinct pros and cons that you need to be aware of before making a buying decision.

What Is Vinyl Flooring and What Are Its Benefits?

Vinyl or often referred to as lino flooring is an extremely durable flooring solution made from synthetic material – PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This widely used type of flooring can come in a range of options including plans, tiles and sheets, giving you the opportunity to choose the right type of flooring for your application.

Lino flooring is not new on the market. It has been used for many years but it became more popular in the ’60s. Thanks to its constant development, high-end look, durability, ease of maintenance, decorative design and affordability, vinyl flooring is the first choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Although considered quite durable, this doesn’t mean vinyl floors are rough and uncomfortable when stepping on them. On the contrary, vinyl has the ability to maintain softness underfoot which is another reason for its wide use and popularity. Depending on the type you choose, some of them can also be waterproof thanks to their special core layer, which is mainly present in vinyl tiles and planks.

Since vinyl floors are constantly evolving, today’s types of vinyl sheets can have a realistic natural wood, stone and decorative look. On top of that, these flooring solutions allow for DIY installation thanks to their fibreglass backing.

How to Clean Vinyl Floors?

The ease of cleaning is just one of the many reasons why so many people decide to install vinyl instead of the linoleum floor. All you need to do to keep this floor clean is sweep and vacuum it regularly. Mopping vinyl is also easy, as you will only need a cleaning detergent (any cleaning detergent without having to worry about discolouration) and a mop. Thanks to its resistance to moisture, mould and mildew, this flooring solution can be mopped and cleaned as frequently as you needed.

What Is Linoleum Flooring and What Are Its Benefits?

Made only from natural materials like linseed, broken down wood and rosin , linoleum is another popular type of residential and commercial flooring. Being made of all-natural components, this is a flooring solution that won’t emit any harmful chemicals. It is also resilient and flexible, giving you the opportunity to lay it even on areas where harder flooring options like tiles and natural hardwood are not recommended. Although it doesn’t have a lifetime guarantee, if taken good care of, linoleum floors can last up to 40 years.

In the past, linoleum flooring was mainly available in sheet form, however, over the years, it has evolved, and now you can also choose from the large selection of linoleum tiles and planks. Unlike vinyl which allows for DIY installation, linoleum floors require only professional installation because they need to be glued down. However, the newest types of linoleum planks and tiles feature interlocking edges, allowing you to install them without any glue just like vinyl tiles and planks.

Being made of biodegradable materials, linoleum floors have low static resistance. This is of vital importance for commercial facilities as static can be harmful to employees. Just like vinyl, linoleum can also provide you with cushioning effect, reducing the chances of feeling foot fatigue.

Being used since the 1800s, linoleum is one of the oldest types of flooring options. However, in the 1950s this flooring solution became less sought-after, due to the emergence of vinyl flooring. Unfortunately, the reason why so many residential and commercial properties have turned to the use of vinyl is that linoleum is susceptible to water damage. This means that linoleum is not recommended for use in kitchens and bathrooms since these are areas prone to moisture. If installed in such areas, linoleum floors will need to be sealed periodically. Excessive humidity can also cause severe damage to linoleum flooring.

When compared to vinyl, linoleum is softer (which some of you consider as an advantage). However, this softness makes linoleum prone to scratches and gouge. It’s is simply unacceptable walking on linoleum flooring with high heels or placing furniture with sharper edges.

Another disadvantage of linoleum flooring is that it requires higher maintenance. Unlike vinyl, which needs a good mopping from time to time, linoleum flooring needs to be sealed once or twice per year. And in case it doesn’t have a coating, linoleum will also need waxing every two to three years.