The Difference Between Linoleum and Vinyl

Q. What’s the difference between linoleum and vinyl?

A. Both linoleum and vinyl are flooring materials that have many common characteristics but there are also a number of vital differences in both of them depending upon the production of the materials, and their long-term use.

Material Differences Between Linoleum and Vinyl

Linoleum: It is a flooring material hugely made from linseed oil, a naturally occurring substance extracted from flax seeds. Linoleum also gets mixed with other natural and renewable materials like wood flour, cork dust, and rosin.

Vinyl: It is a man-made product manufactured using petroleum, a non-renewable resource. In order to produce Vinyl, large amounts of energy are required to extract chlorine, one of its vital components. Some companies have innovated ways to manufacture chlorine-free vinyl.

Installation Differences Between Linoleum and Vinyl

Linoleum: It requires a very careful cutting but the tiles are quite easy to install. Linoleum is more prone to moisture damage, and requires a surface sealer after installation. The seams in tile installing should be as thin as possible to avoid water penetration.

Vinyl: It is an easy installation that is a do-it-yourself. Tiles can be easily placed one beside to other while the sheet materials require some careful cuttings. Since vinyl is waterproof, it doesn’t require surface sealing.

Cost Differences Between Linoleum and Vinyl

Linoleum: It can cost between $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot.

Vinyl: It can cost between $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.

Design Differences Between Linoleum and Vinyl

Linoleum: The patterns and hues in this type of material are not just printed on the surface, but are present on the entire piece. This can cause limitations in the design abilities of the linoleum.

Vinyl: There are lot of options in colors and patterns when it comes to vinyl. On the downside, the printed layer on the vinyl tends to wear down with time.

Cleaning Differences Between Linoleum and Vinyl

Linoleum: It is easy to maintain and requires a just a periodic vacuum or sweep. Stains can be removed using a mild detergent.

Vinyl: It is the floor that is the easiest to clean without having to worry about any discoloration because of its resistance to moisture.