Posted by Repairing a room with replacing the floor is a task that should be approached with all responsibility. A particularly important part of this work is the selection of flooring. Each type of floor can have its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, in some cases, the choice of material can cause certain difficulties. Especially when it comes to such types of flooring as linoleum and PVC tiles.
What do linoleum and polyvinyl chloride tiles have in common?
The main feature that both types of flooring have in common is that they are created using PVC. However, this was not always the case, because initially, linoleum was a completely natural floor covering created using flax and oils. Subsequently, its name stuck and today it is customary to use it as a well-known roll material made from polyvinyl chloride.
Thus, when creating linoleum and PVC tiles, almost the same materials are used, but at the same time, they also have fundamental differences, which the buyer should pay attention to.
What are the features and advantages of linoleum?
The most widespread today is commercial linoleum, the advantage of which is its high versatility. This material is perfect for use in both residential and commercial spaces. It consists of several layers, the main one of which is a fairly dense polyvinyl chloride base. In addition, such linoleum usually has a layer of fiberglass, which significantly increases its performance characteristics, as well as a decorative layer that determines the appearance of the product.
Also, an integral element of modern linoleum models is a protective layer, which is a durable wear-resistant film. It is this that protects the product from wear and mechanical damage. Very often, semi-commercial linoleum may also have a special bottom layer in the form of a pile, created from foamed PVC or polyester. This flooring is sold in the form of rolls with a thickness of 1 to 5 meters. At the same time, the thickness of the coating itself can vary from 3 to 8 millimeters.
Among the main advantages of linoleum are:
- Affordable price. Linoleum is very competitively priced and is a more affordable flooring option than many of its alternatives, including PVC tile, laminate, or engineered wood.
- Moisture resistance. Linoleum tolerates contact with moisture well and is not afraid of even long-term contact with water, which makes it an excellent solution for rooms that may suffer from high humidity.
- Heat and sound insulation. Linoleum not only looks quite beautiful but also allows you to improve the thermal insulation qualities of the room, protecting it from heat loss. In addition, this type of floor can effectively dampen various noises.
- Variety of design options. Modern linoleum models can accurately imitate various types of floors and materials, including natural parquet, tiles, stone, etc. If necessary, you can choose an option in almost any color, from the darkest to light and unusual tones and shades.
- Easy installation. If necessary, you can lay linoleum yourself, that is, without turning to qualified craftsmen for help. In addition, there are several ways to install it, for example, both with and without special glue.
What are the differences and advantages of PVC tiles?
PVC tiles have almost all the same advantages as linoleum. In some aspects (for example, in terms of water resistance) it is even ahead of it. However, PVC tiles have additional advantages.
Firstly, it has a higher resistance to damage. Secondly, unlike linoleum, it can withstand significant temperature changes. Lastly, when using PVC tiles, it is possible to carry out easy local repairs, to eliminate external defects it is enough to replace only one tile.
The only drawback of polyvinyl chloride tiles is their higher cost compared to linoleum.