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A quick search on the internet for linoleum, or lino flooring, throws back tons of results on vinyl flooring. So, you may wonder whether they're the same thing. They’re not.
Linoleum was popular until vinyl came along, and they seem to be identical. However, a key difference is that the latter consists of synthetic materials, while the former is all-natural.And with more people seeking to go green these days, linoleum may be making a significant comeback among homeowners. Keep reading to find out all you should know about linoleum flooring.
Linoleum is a resilient material used over the years as a natural flooring alternative. It’s made of linseed oil (a derivative of flaxseed), wood flour from cork or pine, limestone and cork dust, jute backing, and natural pigments. And unlike vinyl flooring, linoleum doesn't have multiple layers.
Yes. In recent times, Lino has become a popular flooring choice among homeowners looking for an eco-friendly option that will stand the test of time. Also, it’s budget-friendly and has a wide range of designs, patterns, and colours which makes it incredibly versatile.
There are three types of lino floors. Although they’ve got the same qualities, the difference is in the cost, application, and method of installation. Before settling for one, it’s important to consult a professional who’d assist you based on your budget and specific needs.
Sheet lino is the most common type of linoleum flooring with a width of 6 to 12 feet. The rolls are large and continuous and fit to the subfloor with minimal seams.
Lino tiles are 12" x 12" and thicker than linoleum sheets. Because they're installed individually, there's room for design creativity.
Unlike lino sheets and tile, floating or clickable lino floors aren't glued down to the subfloor. Rather, the individual planks interlock, creating a stable and secure surface.
Linoleum provides several benefits to homeowners. We've summarised them in the table below:
| Lino Advantages | Explanation |
| Environment-friendly | Linoleum is made from natural materials, which makes it recyclable at the end of its life. |
| Durable and resilient | It lasts long and endures high foot traffic. |
| Cost-effective | Compared to high-end vinyl and other natural flooring materials, linoleum flooring offers a more affordable option. |
| Low maintenance | The floor requires regular sweeping and occasional mopping. |
Although Lino has several benefits, it also has some drawbacks, such as:
| Lino Disadvantages | Explanation |
| Prone to dents | Heavy furniture and constant activity of heeled footwear can create dents on lino floors. |
| Discolouration | Over time, lino loses its beautiful colours, especially when exposed to UV rays. |
| Susceptible to water damage | If water is left to stand on linoleum flooring, it may damage it over time. |
Linoleum floors have found applicability in various settings due to their versatile nature. You can use them in the following places:
Linoleum floors for residential buildings are designed to meet homeowners' needs. They come in different grades, allowing you to choose one that suits your budget. Also, the design options are numerous, offering an opportunity to choose or customise styles based on your personal preferences.
Additionally, Lino withstands wear and tear, making it ideal for home areas that receive many guests. These include hallways, kitchens, and living rooms. And if a family member is prone to allergies, linoleum flooring is a safe option since it's resistant to dust.
Linoleum is a practical flooring material for commercial spaces and settings with high traffic due to its durability, eco-friendly, and low maintenance properties. You can find it in tiles and sheet forms to accommodate a variety of designs.
Linoleum floors are available in various textures, designs, and colours, which interact to influence the way each type looks and feels. You can find smooth and embossed finishes, mosaic patterns, and all kinds of colours, including those that mimic natural hardwood and stones.
The available colours for linoleum flooring are extensive. However, the common colour choices include the following:
Applying finishes to linoleum enhances its appearance and functionality. So, before you choose a type of finish, you should be sure of where you're installing the flooring and what you intend to do in that space. Below are some lino floor finishes:
A wide range of designs is available for linoleum floors, and you can customise them to create a personal form of art in your space. The common types are:
There's no best linoleum floor because each has its advantages and disadvantages. However, it depends on various factors such as your budget, the specific application, your design preference, the foot traffic, and whether you prefer DIY or professional installation.
Although you'll mostly find vinyl floors on sale, most of the top flooring brands offer linoleum floors too. We've made the following list to streamline your search and boost your shopping experience:
Linoleum floors cost between £10 to £30 per square metre. However, it depends on the supplier, your location, and the type of lino flooring you want to buy. It’s important to get multiple quotes before settling for one supplier.
Yes, you can find affordable lino floor options on the market. Several factors contribute to the price, including the brand and nature of the material.
Newer brands tend to offer at a cheaper rate to gain customers' loyalty since they compete with well-known brands. And if the supplier offers discounts or runs clearance sales, you’re in luck.
Thinner flooring materials are cheaper and useful for areas with less foot traffic. But cheap lino floors don’t offer a wide range of colours and complex designs. So, if you don’t mind installing a basic lino floor, you may go for the cheap material.
Yes, you can buy lino flooring at an expensive price. First, thicker lino floors are relatively costly because they can accommodate high foot traffic.
And if you’re buying from a top brand, you shouldn’t expect it to come cheap. That’s because you’re not just paying for quality but also the company’s reputation. Such suppliers have been in business for a long time and offer warranties.
Lastly, big home improvement stores tend to sell flooring materials at a higher cost compared to small ones. Also, if you reside in places where the cost of living is generally high, like Kent, you may spend more on lino flooring.
Lino floor installation costs between £15 to £25 per square metre. The different types of linoleum demand different installation methods, which costs different amounts.
Although lino flooring may not increase or reduce your property’s value so much, its eco-friendly nature gives it an edge over synthetic floors like vinyl. But it all comes down to the perception of potential buyers. Some people may associate linoleum with cheap flooring. Hence, they prefer natural hardwood and stones.
Installing linoleum flooring involves some steps. However, they may differ slightly depending on the type of lino flooring you’re installing. Below is a general guide on lino floor installation:
Each type of linoleum flooring has its own installation technique.
No, linoleum doesn’t require an underlay most times. But you can use one if you want an extra layer of moisture barrier, the subfloor isn’t levelled, or if the manufacturer recommends it.
Yes, you should hire a professional to install linoleum because they’ve got the experience, skills, and tools for the job. Also, they’ll complete the project faster, saving you time to do other personal and work activities.
Professionals offer a warranty, which means they’d be held responsible if something goes wrong after installation. Something you won’t have when you go for the DIY route.
Maintaining linoleum flooring helps to keep it in good condition for a long time. Since the material requires low maintenance, the process is straightforward.
Cleaning linoleum floors involve regular sweeping and damp mopping. Below is a step-by-step guide:
A floor made of linoleum can be fixed or repaired depending on the extent of the damage. If it's stained, apply a lino floor cleaner and scrub it gently. For minor scratches, you can get a repair kit to conceal them. Also, if the edges have become loose, applying fresh adhesive will secure it to the subfloor.
Linoleum flooring can last between 20 to 40 years or more. The lifespan may differ depending on how well it's maintained. Other factors that influence the longevity of the floor include foot traffic, temperature of the room, quality of the linoleum, and condition of the subfloor.
Lino flooring works well in both residential and commercial settings due to its versatile nature. Also, it's durable if well-maintained, enabling it to withstand wear and tear for a long time. Since it's made with natural materials, it appeals to the conscience of eco-friendly homeowners. And you'll benefit from the antimicrobial properties of linseed oil.
Yes. Lino flooring is made from natural, renewable materials that reduce the impact of the production process on the environment. Also, at the end of its life, it's biodegradable and won't add up to the amount of waste in landfills.
Yes, linoleum is a good flooring option for several reasons. But you should note that the quality of the material, installation, and maintenance play a vital role in its overall performance. In this section, we'll discuss what lino flooring is good for.
Yes. Pet owners should consider using lino floors because they're soft and comfortable for pet paws. Also, the antimicrobial properties of linoleum score a point for those who prioritise hygiene. Although the floor is easy to clean, you should consider using sheet lino since pet accidents can seep into seams and dissolve the glue.
Yes. Similar to pets, lino flooring is good for kids. It is hypoallergenic, which is an important feature for kids who are allergic to dust and other allergens.
Additionally, it doesn't emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which means cleaner air for nurseries and children's bedrooms. Since Lino comes in a wide range of colours and designs, you can fill up the room with eye-catching colours and patterns.
Yes, you can install lino flooring in places with high foot traffic. It's durable and resilient, which makes it a great choice for hallways, entryways, and living rooms.
Yes, you can use linoleum in wet places like the bathroom. However, you should understand that the material is water-resistant, not waterproof. Also, not all lino floors are intended for wet areas, as it may void the warranty. So, you should check the manufacturer's instructions before installing the lino floor.
Yes, water can penetrate linoleum floors if it's in excess. Lino isn't impervious to water, which explains why cleaning it requires damp mopping and drying instead of using a wet mop.
Lino flooring is a significant investment as it can stay with you for up to 40 years. Unlike other flooring types, you may need to hire a professional for proper installation, which could impact the total cost. So before making a buying decision, you should weigh all the pros and cons.