Is sheet vinyl the same as linoleum? Many people seem to believe it is. They will often refer to their vinyl flooring as linoleum. These products are used much the same way. To the unfamiliar linoleum and vinyl may look the same but to be redundant, is sheet vinyl the same as linoleum? The answer is no, but why?
The Difference Explained in Basic Terms
Regardless of how they may look, sheet vinyl and linoleum are not the same product. The difference between these two products can best be described in basic terms.
- Sheet vinyl is vinyl composition resilient product.
- Linoleum is a natural product. Composed of linseed oil, cork and resins, applied to a burlap, felt or canvas back.
Sheet Vinyl and Linoleum are Resilient Floorings
- Both linoleum an sheet vinyl are resilient flooring’s.
- They both make a versatile floor.
- Either can be installed in any room of a house.
- Both used for many commercial type installations.
With resilient you have a huge variety of colors and patterns to select from, and this is particularly true with sheet vinyl. Some floors have a high-gloss that gives more of a wet look and others have a satin type finish. With some floors especially tile, you can custom design a particular look.
Resilient flooring is also available at many price points. It has been the author’s experience that the quality of the resilient can change considerably between the lower and upper price ranges and this is particularly true with sheet vinyl. If you want a floor covering that is going to last a long time it pays to invest in a higher grade product.
While linoleum is generally more expensive than vinyl. For those that want an earth friendly product, linoleum is often a good choice. The products used in linoleum are primarily renewable resources.
So now that you have your answers to “Is sheet vinyl the same as linoleum?” it is time for you to select a product that will work best for you. There are many excellent retail floor covering stores in almost every local. The experts are there to help you if you will only ask!