What’s the difference between Linoleum and Vinyl Flooring

What Is Linoleum Flooring?

Linoleum flooring has been around for over 150 years and is known for its durability, eco-friendly materials, and classic appeal. Unlike synthetic flooring options, linoleum is made from natural materials, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking for a sustainable flooring solution.

What Is Linoleum Made Of?

Linoleum is composed of:
✔ Linseed oil – The key ingredient that gives linoleum its durability and natural resilience
✔ Wood flour & cork dust – Provide strength and a soft, cushioned feel underfoot
✔ Rosin & limestone – Help bind the material together for added durability
✔ Natural pigments – Give linoleum its color and design options
✔ Jute backing – A woven, biodegradable base layer

Key Features of Linoleum Flooring

✔ Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – Made from renewable materials and fully recyclable
✔ Durable & Long-Lasting – Can last 20–40 years with proper care
✔ Water-Resistant (But Not Waterproof) – Resists moisture but can be damaged by standing water
✔ Naturally Antibacterial & Hypoallergenic – Great for allergy sufferers and commercial spaces
✔ Available in Sheets, Tiles, or Planks – Comes in a variety of styles and installation options

💡 Pro Tip: Linoleum develops a protective patina over time, which helps resist stains and wear. However, it may need occasional sealing or waxing to maintain its appearance.

👉 Thinking about linoleum flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for expert installation and a free consultation!

What Is Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic, water-resistant flooring option that has gained popularity for its affordability, durability, and realistic wood or tile designs. Unlike linoleum, vinyl is fully waterproof, making it a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

What Is Vinyl Flooring Made Of?

Vinyl flooring is composed of multiple layers:
✔ Wear Layer – A protective topcoat that resists scratches, stains, and scuffs
✔ Printed Design Layer – A high-resolution image that mimics wood, stone, or tile
✔ Vinyl Core Layer – A waterproof PVC layer that adds durability and flexibility
✔ Backing Layer – Provides stability and cushioning, sometimes with an attached underlayment

Types of Vinyl Flooring

1️⃣ Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) – Mimics the look of real hardwood with realistic textures and embossing
2️⃣ Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) – Looks like ceramic or stone tile but with a softer, warmer feel underfoot
3️⃣ Sheet Vinyl – Comes in large, seamless rolls, making it highly waterproof and budget-friendly
4️⃣ Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT) – Common in commercial spaces, made from multiple layers of vinyl and limestone

Key Features of Vinyl Flooring

✔ 100% Waterproof – Perfect for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens
✔ Scratch & Stain Resistant – Ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with pets or kids
✔ Easy to Maintain – Requires only regular sweeping and occasional mopping
✔ Variety of Designs – Available in realistic wood, stone, and tile looks
✔ Quick & Easy Installation – Many options use a click-lock or peel-and-stick system for DIY-friendly installation

💡 Pro Tip: While vinyl flooring is highly durable, lower-quality vinyl can dent under heavy furniture or sharp objects. Always choose a thicker wear layer (at least 12 mils) for better durability.

👉 Interested in vinyl flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for professional installation and expert advice!

Key Differences Between Linoleum and Vinyl Flooring

While linoleum and vinyl flooring may seem similar, they have major differences in composition, durability, maintenance, and cost. Below is a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which flooring option is best for your needs.

Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Flooring Type Is Better?

✔ Choose Linoleum If… You want a natural, eco-friendly flooring option with long-lasting durability.
✔ Choose Vinyl If… You need a waterproof, low-maintenance flooring that’s easy to install and available in more realistic wood or stone designs.

💡 Pro Tip: Linoleum is great for green-conscious homeowners, while vinyl is ideal for busy households with pets, kids, or moisture-prone areas.

Pros & Cons of Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a durable, eco-friendly option with a long lifespan, but it does require more maintenance than vinyl. Here’s a breakdown of its advantages and disadvantages:

✅ Pros of Linoleum Flooring

✔ Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – Made from natural materials like linseed oil, wood flour, and jute backing, making it an excellent choice for green-conscious homeowners.

✔ Long-Lasting Durability – When properly maintained, linoleum floors can last 20–40 years, outlasting many types of vinyl flooring.

✔ Naturally Antibacterial & Hypoallergenic – Resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.

✔ Color Runs Through the Material – Unlike vinyl, which has a printed design layer, linoleum’s color goes all the way through the material, meaning it won’t fade or wear away.

✔ Comfortable Underfoot – Softer and more cushioned than tile or hardwood, making it comfortable to stand on for long periods.

❌ Cons of Linoleum Flooring

🚫 Not Fully Waterproof – While linoleum is water-resistant, excessive moisture can cause it to warp or discolor, making it a poor choice for bathrooms or basements.

🚫 Requires More Maintenance – Needs occasional sealing or waxing to prevent stains and moisture damage, unlike vinyl, which requires little upkeep.

🚫 Installation Can Be Tricky – Most linoleum flooring is glued down, making professional installation recommended.

🚫 Limited Design Variety – While available in various colors and patterns, linoleum lacks the realistic wood and stone designs found in vinyl flooring.

💡 Pro Tip: If choosing linoleum, be sure to seal the surface periodically to protect against water damage and stains.

👉 Considering linoleum flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for expert installation and a free consultation today!

Pros & Cons of Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is one of the most versatile and low-maintenance flooring options available today. It’s 100% waterproof and comes in a wide variety of styles, but it’s not as eco-friendly as linoleum. Here’s a look at the benefits and drawbacks:

✅ Pros of Vinyl Flooring

✔ 100% Waterproof – Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and high-moisture areas where linoleum wouldn’t be ideal.

✔ Extremely Low Maintenance – No sealing or waxing required—just regular sweeping and occasional mopping to keep it looking great.

✔ Realistic Wood & Stone Designs – The high-resolution printed layer gives vinyl a more natural, modern look compared to linoleum.

✔ Easy Installation – Many vinyl options, including click-lock and peel-and-stick, allow for fast, DIY-friendly installation.

✔ Budget-Friendly – Vinyl flooring typically ranges from $2–$8 per sq. ft., making it a more affordable option compared to many other flooring materials.

✔ Durable & Scratch-Resistant – A thick wear layer protects against scratches, stains, and scuffs, making it great for homes with pets and kids.

❌ Cons of Vinyl Flooring

🚫 Not as Eco-Friendly – Made from synthetic materials (PVC), which are not biodegradable and less environmentally friendly than linoleum.

🚫 Lower-Quality Vinyl Can Dent – While high-quality vinyl is very durable, cheaper options can dent under heavy furniture or sharp objects.

🚫 Shorter Lifespan Than Linoleum – Vinyl flooring generally lasts 10–25 years, depending on the quality, while linoleum can last 20–40 years with proper care.

🚫 May Contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) – Some vinyl products can off-gas chemicals after installation, but low-VOC and phthalate-free options are available.

💡 Pro Tip: For the most durable vinyl, choose Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) with a wear layer of at least 12 mils.

👉 Considering vinyl flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for expert installation and a free consultation today!

Which Flooring Is Best for You?

Now that we’ve compared linoleum and vinyl flooring, how do you decide which one is right for your space? The answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, and where the flooring will be installed.

Choose Linoleum If…

✔ You want an eco-friendly, natural flooring option
✔ You need long-lasting durability (20–40 years with proper care)
✔ You’re okay with occasional sealing or waxing for maintenance
✔ You prefer a softer, more cushioned feel underfoot
✔ You don’t need 100% waterproof flooring (not ideal for bathrooms or basements)

Choose Vinyl Flooring If…

✔ You need a 100% waterproof floor (great for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements)
✔ You want a realistic wood, stone, or tile look
✔ You prefer a low-maintenance, no-wax flooring option
✔ You need an easy DIY installation with click-lock or peel-and-stick options
✔ You’re looking for a more budget-friendly flooring option

💡 Pro Tip: If sustainability is your top priority, linoleum is the better choice. If waterproofing and easy maintenance are more important, vinyl is the way to go.

👉 Still not sure which flooring is right for you? Our team at Milwaukee Flooring Company can help you find the perfect option for your home or business. Schedule a free consultation today!

Final Thoughts – Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Which One Should You Choose?

Both linoleum and vinyl flooring have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

✔ Linoleum is great for eco-conscious homeowners who want long-lasting, natural flooring.
✔ Vinyl is perfect for those who need waterproof, low-maintenance, and stylish flooring with modern designs.

If you’re still unsure which flooring is best for your space, let Milwaukee Flooring Company help! Our team provides expert advice, professional installation, and free in-home consultations to make your decision easy.

👉 Click “Get an Estimate“ or call us today to schedule your free consultation!