Vinyl Floor & Linoleum Floor Installation & Repair

Linoleum vs. Vinyl

Linoleum flooring was invented in 1860 and was first used to cover ship decks. In 1863 it was patented for use in other applications, including home flooring. From the late 19th century until the 1950s linoleum was one of the most popular home flooring choices for several reasons: it was affordable, practical, non-flammable and low maintenance. Especially if compared to the two other flooring options: hardwood and tiles. In the 1940s vinyl flooring began to be marketed in scale as a home flooring option and its popularity quickly soared, surpassing just about all the other available options. Today vinyl is second only to carpet as the most popular flooring option in the US. While they may look similar there are many differences between vinyl and linoleum that can make or break your home décor.

·Composition

Linoleum is completely made with natural and renewable materials while vinyl is made using toxic chemicals.

·Sustainability

Linoleum made a comeback in recent years as an eco-friendly flooring option because it is all-natural, made from renewable and biodegradable materials, while vinyl is made with chemicals that often have high VOC emissions and are not biodegradable.

·Price

Linoleum tends to be more expensive than vinyl.

·Durability

Linoleum is more durable than vinyl. Linoleum manufacturers often back their products with 25-year warranties, but the flooring actually lasts an average of 50 years.

·Water Resistance

Linoleum is susceptible to water damage, especially if improperly installed, while vinyl is impervious to water.

·Installation.

Both linoleum and vinyl will need a completely even and smooth surface to be laid on. If installed over wood floors, uneven subfloors, or rugged concrete underlayment will be needed. Both materials are installed using glue to keep the sheets in place and free of bubbles and ripples. Some types of vinyl tiles are peel and stick, self-adhesive tiles. Vinyl and linoleum can be laid on top of pre-existing vinyl and linoleum floors. While there are DIY options sold in the hardware store, it is always better to have it professionally installed.

·Maintenance

Both linoleum and vinyl can be well maintained in a similar fashion. Regular sweeping and mopping will, in most cases. Homeowners should use just water or products that are specifically designed to mop these floors, avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners. Vinyl is impervious to water but linoleum is prone to moisture damage, so spills should be wiped immediately and the floor should be allowed to dry as soon as possible.

Do Linoleum and Vinyl contain asbestos?

Linoleum itself does not contain asbestos. However, some types of linoleum manufactured before the 1980s had light-colored core or a dark, asphalt-based backer which did contain asbestos. The same is true for vinyl flooring. Modern linoleum and vinyl flooring, however, are asbestos-free. If your home has vintage linoleum or vinyl floor it is very important to have it tested for asbestos before you attempt to remove, refinish, or lay any other type of flooring over it. Asbestos is harmful when disturbed and needs to be properly removed and disposed of by professionals.