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This may be silly, but what's the difference in linoleum and vinyl flooring?
Here is an official definition:
Although linoleum has been used as a generic term to refer to vinyl and linoleum floors, it is important to distinguish between the two, as there are significant differences. While both are sanitary, easy to maintain and are available in sheet floors and tiles, the main difference is that linoleum is natural and vinyl is synthetic.
Linoleum is made from linseed oil, which is derived from flax, and other natural, renewable resources such as rosin, wood, cork powder and pigments. As a result, linoleum is biodegradable, and an environmentally friendlier choice. It is naturally anti-bacterial so there are no chemical anti-bacterial agents required during manufacturing or maintenance.
Harmful emissions
Vinyl flooring contributes to poor indoor air quality, releasing dangerous volatile organic compound (VOC) offgassing. In contrast, when installed with low-emission adhesive, linoleum does not emit these harmful chemicals. Indeed, concerns over indoor air quality have increased linoleum's popularity. However, linoleum does emit linseed oil fumes, which some people are extremely sensitive to. It is best to check your reactions to linoleum before purchasing it.
Linoleum is more durable
Linoleum is more durable and lasts much longer than vinyl flooring. Whereas a linoleum floor can last 30 to 40+ years, the maximum life expectancy for a vinyl floor is about 15 years. Linoleum is more resistant to burning; a vinyl floor can be burned by a match or other hot or lit object.
This may be silly, but what's the difference in linoleum and vinyl flooring?
Here is an official definition:
Although linoleum has been used as a generic term to refer to vinyl and linoleum floors, it is important to distinguish between the two, as there are significant differences. While both are sanitary, easy to maintain and are available in sheet floors and tiles, the main difference is that linoleum is natural and vinyl is synthetic.
Linoleum is made from linseed oil, which is derived from flax, and other natural, renewable resources such as rosin, wood, cork powder and pigments. As a result, linoleum is biodegradable, and an environmentally friendlier choice. It is naturally anti-bacterial so there are no chemical anti-bacterial agents required during manufacturing or maintenance.
Harmful emissions
Vinyl flooring contributes to poor indoor air quality, releasing dangerous volatile organic compound (VOC) offgassing. In contrast, when installed with low-emission adhesive, linoleum does not emit these harmful chemicals. Indeed, concerns over indoor air quality have increased linoleum's popularity. However, linoleum does emit linseed oil fumes, which some people are extremely sensitive to. It is best to check your reactions to linoleum before purchasing it.
Linoleum is more durable
Linoleum is more durable and lasts much longer than vinyl flooring. Whereas a linoleum floor can last 30 to 40+ years, the maximum life expectancy for a vinyl floor is about 15 years. Linoleum is more resistant to burning; a vinyl floor can be burned by a match or other hot or lit object.
