With a number of material available in stores today, homeowners who are planning to either renovate or build a new home will surely have a hard time finding the best material that they will use. Will it suit according to their lifestyle or will it fit into their budget.
For budget-savvy homeowners, one recommended material is to use linoleum flooring. Linoleum flooring is often confused with vinyl flooring but the materials are very different. Here are some tips about why linoleum flooring could be an advantage or a disadvantage to your home.
Linoleum Quality
Advantage: Flexible and Soft
Linoleum is flexible, bounceable, and especially durable because it is made from natural materials. Once properly maintained, this flooring option can last up to 40 years. This flooring option is ideal for the elderly because it is very soft and comfortable to step on.
Disadvantage: Susceptible to Scratches
Linoleum can be easily scratched or torn by dragged furniture or sharp objects like pointed heels because of its softness. Too much humidity can make corners to curl and the flooring’s natural materials make it vulnerable to moisture damage.
Linoleum Appearance
Advantage: Colors, Patterns, and Installation Choices
Linoleum dye is permeated through the flooring so it’s better at holding color and pattern which is dissimilar to vinyl and laminate flooring. With a broad variety of colors and patterns available, linoleum is very versatile. You can be creative and create unique mosaics with tile linoleum as it is very easy to cut to exact specifications.
Disadvantage: Vulnerable in Light
Linoleum will take on a subtle yellowish hue once exposed to light.
Maintenance
Advantage: Low Maintenance
Linoleum has minimal maintenance requirements and easy to install. With periodic sweeping and occasional mopping, it can last its full expectation.
Disadvantage: Higher Maintenance
It may need regular polishing and buffing if in case you’ve bought unsealed linoleum. Linoleum age by yellowing will be visible in no time if not maintained properly.
Environment-Friendly
Advantage: Renewable, Biodegradable, and Clean
For environment conscious homeowners, linoleum is a good flooring option. Thanks to its linseed oil from flax composition, it utilizes a renewable resource. Unlike vinyl flooring, linoleum is also biodegradable, non-toxic, and formaldehyde-free and when disposed of, it will just decompose. In addition, linoleum doesn’t emit volatile organic compounds so it won’t result in indoor air pollution.
Disadvantage: Installation Odor
Linoleum flooring presents linseed fumes for about a week to a month upon installation. Although odors won’t cause harm, it may frustrate for some smell sensitive people.
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