SOME CALL IT LINOLEUM, AND SOME CALL IT VINYL: “WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THEM, AND WHICH IS BEST FOR ME?”
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If you’re looking to have flooring installed in a potentially wet area such as a kitchen or bathroom, you need to consider linoleum and vinyl options. These two terms are often used interchangeably, though these materials are not the same. Linoleum and vinyl are both considered Resilient Flooring which means that it can retain its shape. These Resilient options are forgiving under foot, and may not suffer a permanent dent when objects are dropped on them. Linoleum is more often found in commercial settings, while vinyl is found in numerous residential and commercial applications. Both materials are available in sheet and tile forms, so they come in many looks!
Linoleum is made from all natural and biodegradable materials. In addition to linseed oil, it includes pine rosin, limestone, cork flour, wood flour, jute as the backing, and coloring pigments. Its color goes through to the backing, so scratches don’t readily show. Homeowners increasingly are selecting it as a green material that is relatively inexpensive. Linoleum requires only basic routine care such as sweeping and mopping with a product-specific pH-neutral cleaner, but the flooring must be treated with a sealer periodically.
Vinyl flooring is available in a wide variety of color and pattern options. Low-end vinyl flooring is quite inexpensive, but luxury vinyl flooring (LVT) and Waterproof Planks (WPC & SPC) are a higher-quality version of the product. Vinyl’s color and patterns are printed, which allows for a tremendous variety and keeps costs affordable. Vinyl flooring requires no special care. In most cases, a mild cleaner is recommended by the manufacturer.