At Ashley Fine Floors, our experts are happy to help home, and property owners find the best flooring fit for their space. One of the topics we frequently discuss with customers is the difference between sheet vinyl and linoleum tiles, which, while similar, have many key attributes that help distinguish between the two. To help alleviate any confusion, check out our quick list of facts below!
Composition
Vinyl
Vinyl is manufactured using petroleum and other chemicals to create a pre-finished product.
Linoleum
Linoleum is made from biodegradable, eco-friendly materials including cork, tree resin, and wood. This may be the preferred option for customers looking for an environmentally conscious product.
Installation
Vinyl
Vinyl is easy to install, and due to its water resistant nature, requires no sealing or waxing. Simply peel and stick, or snap together! (Certain types of sheet vinyl may require more precise measurements than others)
Linoleum
Linoleum is also easy to install. However it does typically require a water sealant to be applied and for the seals between tiles to be thin, to prevent water from seeping through the cracks.
Maintenance
Vinyl
Vinyl is easy to maintain, requiring minimal sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming to keep its lustre.
Linoleum
Linoleum requires more upkeep compared to vinyl, but is still relatively easy to clean. When mopping, be careful to avoid harsh cleaners, as the surface can be sensitive to chemicals. Microfibre cloths and warm water are your best bet for basic cleaning.
Durability
Vinyl
Vinyl is a resilient material, with an average lifespan of anywhere between 10-20 years depending on traffic levels etc. Despite its durability, vinyl may not be the best fit for commercial properties, or spaces that need to handle heavy foot traffic.
Linoleum
The lifespan of linoleum products can be considerably longer than vinyl, average between 20-40 years. Highly durable, it may be suitable for certain commercial or industrial applications, and can withstand higher strain than its vinyl counterparts.
Both linoleum and vinyl provide property owners with a stylish, reliable option to outfit their space. To learn more about these two products, contact a member of our team today!