Linoleum Flooring - The Pros And Cons (Everything You Need To Know)

When it comes to flooring options, homeowners often consider linoleum as a durable and long-lasting choice. Its versatility also makes it suitable for various rooms in the house. Despite being sometimes confused with vinyl flooring, linoleum has its own unique characteristics. To determine if it’s the right option for you, consider the following pros and cons of linoleum flooring.

What Is Linoleum Flooring?

Linoleum flooring is composed of a blend of sustainable natural materials, though the specific ingredients may differ depending on the manufacturer. Typically, it consists of a combination of linseed oil, cork powder, jute, wood flours, and tree resin. Unlike vinyl flooring, linoleum features a design that is integrated throughout the material, rather than in separate layers.

Linoleum Flooring Lifespan

Linoleum flooring has a long lifespan, which is a major draw for homeowners. With proper maintenance, it can last for 20 to 40 years or more. However, it’s important to note that linoleum flooring will naturally age over time and may appear worn or faded, eventually requiring replacement. While some homeowners appreciate the vintage look of aged linoleum, others may not, so it’s important to consider this in your decision-making process.

Pros

Linoleum flooring is a durable option that can withstand wear and tear, lasting over 40 years with proper maintenance.
It’s a cost-effective flooring option, making it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.
With a vast array of colors, patterns, and styles, linoleum flooring is a versatile option for any room in the house.
Linoleum is water-resistant, making it an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
It’s an eco-friendly flooring option as it’s made with renewable materials and biodegradable.
Linoleum does not emit harmful VOCs, making it a healthier choice for homes.
It’s scratch-resistant and can mask signs of wear and tear better than vinyl flooring.
Linoleum flooring requires minimal upkeep, only needing occasional sweeping and mopping.

Cons

Linoleum is susceptible to dents from furniture legs, particularly in areas with heavy furniture.
Professional installation is required for linoleum flooring, which can be costly.
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause linoleum to darken or yellow over time.
Some types of linoleum are prone to moisture damage, especially when exposed to standing water.
New and freshly waxed linoleum can be slippery and increase the risk of slips and falls.

Linoleum Flooring Installation

Linoleum flooring installation is not a DIY project and usually requires the expertise of a professional. Due to the challenges in handling and cutting linoleum sheets, installation involves a glue-down bond and welding the seams together.

However, modern linoleum flooring offers an alternative option for DIY enthusiasts in the form of linoleum tiles and planks. These tiles and planks utilize a click-lock method that allows them to float over the subfloor without any adhesive and can easily click together like a set of Legos.

Design Options

Linoleum flooring offers a unique design option where the color and pattern are embedded throughout the material’s thickness. This guarantees that the design won’t fade away with time. With advanced printing technologies, linoleum manufacturers can create vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and even natural-looking designs, providing endless design possibilities while maintaining the utility and durability of linoleum flooring.

The current linoleum flooring designs are nothing like the retro looks from 50 years ago. While the classic designs are still available, modern linoleum flooring offers a vast range of colors, patterns, and natural-looking styles that cater to different aesthetic preferences.

Maintenance and Care

Linoleum flooring is known for its low-maintenance profile, making it a popular choice for homeowners. With occasional sweeping and mopping, it can stay in good condition for years. For removing stains, a mild detergent or linoleum cleaning solution can be used without causing any damage to the surface.

However, compared to vinyl, linoleum needs a bit more maintenance to keep it in top shape. As it is a softer material, it can get easily gouged or scratched, and so requires periodic sealing to prevent any moisture damage or staining.

Cost

When compared to vinyl flooring, linoleum is a pricier option and requires professional installation, which adds to the overall cost. Generally, sheet linoleum costs around $2 to $2.50 per square foot, while linoleum tiles can range between $3.50 to $5 per square foot installed. However, luxury and designer styles may come at a higher price point.

Top Brands

If you’re looking for linoleum flooring, it’s important to work with a reputable manufacturer who can help you find the right materials for your project. There are several brands to choose from, including:

Forbo: Forbo is a Swiss-based company that offers a wide range of linoleum flooring options in various colors, patterns, and styles. They are known for their high-quality products and eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
Armstrong: Armstrong is an American company that offers a variety of linoleum flooring options, including sheet and tile formats. Their linoleum floors are known for their durability and easy maintenance.
Tarkett: Tarkett is a French-based company that offers linoleum flooring options in various colors and styles. They are known for their innovative designs and sustainability efforts.
Marmoleum: Marmoleum is a linoleum brand owned by Forbo. Their linoleum floors are made from natural materials and come in a variety of patterns and colors.
Gerflor: Gerflor is a French-based company that offers linoleum flooring options in various colors and patterns. They are known for their easy-to-install linoleum tiles and planks.

When considering a brand, be sure to research their products, manufacturing processes, and customer reviews to ensure you choose the right linoleum flooring for your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, linoleum flooring is a durable and versatile option that can last for decades with proper care. While it may require professional installation and is more expensive than vinyl flooring, its renewable materials and biodegradability make it an eco-friendly choice. With a wide array of colors, patterns, and styles, linoleum can fit any design aesthetic.

While it is susceptible to dents and scratches, it requires minimal maintenance and is water-resistant, making it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. Overall, linoleum flooring can be a wise investment for homeowners seeking long-term durability and style in their flooring choice.

Source: Forbes