PVC versus linoleum

PVC vs. Linoleum

Although the linoleum and PVC look similar, there are major differences between these two types of floorings. Here they are:

Structure

PVC and linoleum are similar, that’s why they are hard to distinguish. PVC is made of synthetic materials while linoleum contains only natural materials.

Durability

Both the linoleum and PVC have high resistance to usage and can represent an alternative solution for sand stone in kitchens, bathrooms, halls, warehouses, commercial spaces etc. The moisture is not a destructive factor for these floorings.

The durability depends very much on the quality of the installation, that’s why it is essential to apply the material on a perfect plane surface while the connections between the strips and walls have to be made using warm welding.

Design

The linoleum offers joyful colors and is biodegradable, so it can be a very good choice regarding the environment. You can choose between any ideas of design in both cases, but the color range is higher than for linoleum, with multiple design possibilities.

The vinyl can be made to look like other materials such as faience, wood or mosaic models.

Installation and maintenance

Both PVC and linoleum are installed by adhesion using a special adhesive. The main advantage of PVC is that, usually, it is easier to install than linoleum due to the fact that it is more flexible. The most vinyl plates have to be prepared only with adhesive and then can be installed on the flooring surface, compared with linoleum which has to be precisely cut and then carefully installed to prevent air bubbles. To be sure of the quality of the installation and also of the resistance of the material, you have to ensure that the difference of flatness of the support layer is within the accepted limits.

The cleaning and maintenance are easy, with water and a normal cleaning agent.

Costs

Linoleum is a product that combines the pleasant design with the care towards the environment, being made of 100% natural materials. It doesn’t allow the bacteria accumulation, being a very good thermic and sound insulator.

PVC is also resistant in time and is available in a large range of colors and design.

The maintenance costs are very low, modern PVC having usage layers that confers high resistance in time and eliminating the necessity to use periodical surface treatments such polish.

PVC also contains antibacterial and antifungal treatments that don’t allow the accumulation of microorganisms.