Linoleum Flooring Pros And Cons [Comprehensive Guide]

Are you looking for linoleum flooring pros and cons? We have got you covered with this detailed guide where we have discussed complete advantages & disadvantages about it.

Linoleum flooring is a type of flooring that has been around for some time now, so it’s not as new and exciting as some other types of floors.

Instead, linoleum flooring offers many benefits and advantages, giving you an overall value and quality higher than the one you would get from most other types of floors that are similar.

Linoleum flooring is made from a combination of oxidized linseed oil, gums and resins, and other substances. Linoleum is sometimes confused with vinyl flooring.

Linoleum, on the other hand, is a whole different. If you are planning this flooring for your home, this guide is perfect for you where we will explain in detail about the linoleum flooring pros and cons before you take the step.

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What Is Linoleum Flooring?

Linoleum flooring is a type of flooring that is made from a combination of oxidized linseed oil, gums, and resins. Linoleum is a long-lasting, low-maintenance flooring that has been in use since the 18th century.

It’s a great way to add a natural touch to your flooring. Linoleum is an environmentally friendly, low-maintenance solution.

You can install it yourself, and there is no need for expensive cleaners or special products to keep your floors looking great.

It’s a fantastic carpet option that comes in a variety of designs and sizes. There are a variety of colors to select from, based on your personal preference.

It’s one of the most long-lasting materials available, making it an excellent flooring choice for high-traffic areas. So let us dive into the linoleum flooring pros and cons below.

Linoleum Flooring Of Pros And Cons

Linoleum has a variety of benefits that make it an excellent choice for commercial and residential use. However, there are also a few drawbacks associated with linoleum flooring.

The good news is that the pros outweigh the cons. We have outlined the most common pros, and cons for this type of flooring below that will help you determine if it’s the right flooring choice for you.

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Pros Of Linoleum Flooring (Advantages)

Below you can check out some of the most common advantages associated with linoleum flooring.

Durable And Resistant To Wear And Tear

If you install linoleum flooring in your home, you won’t have to worry about replacing it for years. Linoleum is one of the most durable options out there.

It’s highly resistant to water, stains, and other types of damage that can happen over time. So if you want a long-lasting type of flooring that is both stylish and affordable, you’ll definitely want to check out linoleum.

It’s a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas. You won’t have to worry about damaging your linoleum flooring. It’s resistant to scratches, dings, and other types of damage that can happen over time.

This means you won’t have to worry about any unsightly stains on your floors. Linoleum flooring has a life of up to 40 years (if properly maintained) and outlasts other flooring choices by far.

Keep Reading: What Is Vinyl Flooring Explained

Affordable Installation

Linoleum flooring is also an affordable option. You can purchase linoleum for your home in a roll or sheet format. If you choose the roll format, you’ll have to have it installed by a professional.

The sheet variety is completely DIY-friendly and easy to install yourself. It’s also very cost-effective. If you are on a budget when it comes to your flooring, then you’ll find that linoleum is one of the most affordable options.

It’s an excellent choice for homes and businesses on a limited budget. Its tiles may be cut to any size or shape, and you can even make your own personalized mosaic with them.

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Variety Of Styles, Colors & Patterns Options

Linoleum is available in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns. You can choose from tiles or sheets depending on your preferences.

There are also a variety of designs, including classic flooring with an asphalt pattern, larger vinyl sheets with intricate designs, and classic linoleum planks that resemble wood floors.

There are a number of color options, but most linoleum flooring comes in neutral tones like black and white. Linoleum is available in both matte or glossy finishes depending on your preference.

You can also find it with embossed textures for added grip. You’ll be able to find linoleum in almost any color or pattern you want.

It’s a truly versatile flooring choice that comes with everything from classic looks to ultra-modern designs, as well as various textures and patterns for extra appeal.

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Water Resistant

If you have a busy household that is prone to spills and accidents, then you’ll appreciate linoleum’s water-resistant properties. It offers the same type of resistance as synthetic rubber.

So if someone in your home happens to spill a beverage or drop food on the floor, you won’t have much trouble cleaning up after it.

You can wash it off with a simple mop and bucket of water. It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas where you’ll be exposing your floors to all types of damage.

It is also an excellent option for the kitchen and bathroom, where water and potential spills will be an issue. So if you want a durable type of flooring that you can easily clean, then linoleum may be the perfect choice for your home.

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Biodegradable & Renewable

One of linoleum’s most appealing features is that it is biodegradable and renewable. This means that it can be recycled, but more importantly, the materials used to produce linoleum are also biodegradable.

So if you install linoleum flooring in your home, then you won’t have to worry about any severe environmental issues down the road. It’s also made from natural materials.

Whereas many types of flooring are manufactured using non-renewable materials that can’t be recycled, linoleum is a truly eco-friendly option that you can feel good about installing in your home.

It decays when taken out of the house floor or destroyed. Linoleum flooring is also non-toxic and formaldehyde-free due to the fact that the chemicals employed are not harmful.

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Does Not Emit VOCs

Very few types of flooring can compete with linoleum when it comes to not emitting VOCs. If you have a family, then you probably know how important air quality is in your home.

With kids and pets running around everywhere, the air in your home tends to get pretty dirty. In fact, studies show that homes contained higher amounts of pollutants than the outdoor air in some instances.

If you install linoleum flooring in your home, then you won’t have to worry about the VOCs that are commonly found in other types of flooring outgassing into your living space.

It also has Non-VOC certification, and it is entirely free of these potentially toxic chemicals, which means it’s a safer type of flooring for your family to be around.

As an added bonus, linoleum also includes antimicrobial agents that prevent the growth of mold and bacteria on its surface. You might also like to read our guide on killing mold on porous surfaces.

Soft & Flexible Rolls

Linoleum rolls are available in soft, spongy, and flexible options. With flexible rolls, there’s also less waste than with some other types of flooring because they allow for easier cutting and installation.

If you have a large room or even multiple rooms in your home, then this is an added bonus because you won’t have to worry about putting unused rolls of flooring in storage somewhere.

Flexible linoleum rolls are also easy to work with and can be installed quickly, which means that installation costs will remain low.

It’s pretty soft and flexible, with no discomfort or stiffness, even after hours of wear. It has a beautiful sheen that shines brightly for long as it is properly cared for.

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Low Maintenance

Even though it might seem like a chore, keeping your floors clean is an important part of maintaining the overall appearance and appeal of your home.

If you have pets or children, then this task can become pretty time-consuming. You’ll be much happier if you choose the flooring that requires minimal care for maximum results.

You can also get a sealed flooring option. Linoleum is easier to care for than many other types of flooring. It is a fantastic option for busy families & high traffic areas because the dirt and grime don’t accumulate as quickly on its surface if cleaned properly.

Vacuuming and sweeping with a broom on a regular basis will keep the flooring in excellent condition.

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Cons Of Linoleum Flooring (Disadvantages)

However, there are a few disadvantages to installing linoleum flooring in your home that we have mentioned below.

Requires Professional Installation

If you choose, linoleum flooring will require professional installation. This means that you’ll have to hire someone to put it down for you, which can quickly drive up the cost.

If you aren’t skilled in the area of flooring installation, then this is a major downside to consider. You can offset these costs by looking for linoleum rolls that are pre-cut and come with adhesive backing (linoleum tiles), ensuring a more straightforward installation process.

Prone To Sunlight Damage

Linoleum is very durable, but it can still fade or yellow when exposed to UV rays over time. If you like the idea of having your flooring match the color of your white cabinets in the kitchen, then this might be a disappointing factor.

Sunlight will cause linoleum to darken without some form of protection. Therefore, if you have any flooring that is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, then you should use some sort of protective coating or cover it up completely.

If you aren’t concerned about maintaining the original color, then this may not be an issue for you.

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Vulnerable To Moisture Damage

If you have an area of your home that tends to be moist or soggy, then this could adversely affect the condition of the linoleum in that location.

Water is particularly harmful to any flooring product because it can damage and ruin its appearance. Linoleum is susceptible to moisture damage owing to its composition.

When your floor expands as a result of increased humidity, it might curl and crack. In some cases, the damage will be permanent.

Needs Buffing & Polishing

The finish of your linoleum flooring will become duller over time due to regular wear and tear. This will truly be evident if you have hardwood underneath the linoleum, which provides an effective contrast.

You can’t remove this discoloration or yellowing, but it can be prevented through proper maintenance. Over time, dust and dirt will accumulate on top of the linoleum, causing it to lose its luster.

It will diminish the appearance and feel of your home. You need to use a polishing or buffing method that is designed for linoleum flooring if you want to make it shiny & lustrous again. If you don’t, then your flooring will never reach its full potential.

Costing Of Linoleum Flooring

The cost of linoleum flooring is dependent on many factors and can vary considerably. Linoleum tiles are more expensive than rolls, owing to the fact that they are pre-cut for easier installation.

It comes in a variety of widths and lengths. The thickness of the linoleum will also be a factor when it comes to cost. The more foot traffic you have in a particular area, the thicker the linoleum will need to be in order to remain durable and resist wear and tear.

The linoleum sheet cost can be around $2 to $2.50 per square foot, and the cost of linoleum tiles can vary from about $3.50 to $5 per square foot.

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Life Expectancy

If you can find high-quality linoleum, then it should last for around 20 to 40 years or even more (with proper care), which is why it’s such a great long-term investment in interior design.

This definitely makes it a more intelligent investment in comparison with other types of flooring that may need to be changed relatively frequently over time.

It also doesn’t take much maintenance to keep it looking new and attractive throughout its lifespan, unlike some other types of flooring that might not be so easy to care for or maintain.

Linoleum, like other flooring types, will age with time and acquire an older appearance until it must be replaced. The life expectancy of linoleum flooring is around 20-30 years based on average wear.

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Final Verdict

Linoleum flooring is a popular option for many homeowners because it offers a variety of benefits. However, there are a few cons that need to be considered before making a decision.

In this article, we’ve outlined the linoleum flooring pros and cons so that you can make an informed choice about whether it’s the right fit for your home.

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