Laminate or linoleum: which is better to use for finishing the floor

Laminate or linoleum, which is better - this issue is puzzled by many who decided to change the flooring in their house or apartment

What is better in an apartment: linoleum or laminate

What are the main requirements for the quality of modern flooring in an apartment? Of course, the first place is always the strength and ability of the material to withstand various types of mechanical stress. The service life also plays an important role, because when buying an expensive coating, you want to be sure that it will serve the entire period.

Floor covering plays an important role in interior design

Aesthetic appearance is no less important. Indeed, no matter how durable and reliable the coating may be, it may not fit in its style into the overall design of the apartment. Among the interior tasks of flooring, two main ones can be distinguished:

• visual expansion of space;
• creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort in the room.

The only problem is that each manufacturer claims that it is his coating that is better and preferable. So you will most likely have to figure out which one is more suitable for your home.

Laminate or linoleum: which is better to choose, evaluation criteria

How to make the right choice in favor of one or another floor covering during the renovation process? It is necessary to consider all the advantages and disadvantages of each option, and then compare according to the characteristics that are most important to you. So, consider the laminate and linoleum according to this algorithm.

Which is better - laminate or linoleum in an apartment can be determined by comparing floor coverings by their main characteristics

The main characteristics of the laminate

Laminate Is a floor covering that consists of two layers. A polymer layer or decorative paper is used as a base. This gives the final product strength and stability.

Among the advantages of laminate flooring are:

• high level of strength and durability. Such a coating can withstand significant loads, and is also quite difficult to mechanically damage;
• the use of only environmentally friendly materials for the manufacture of laminate makes it completely safe for human health;
• fire resistance, as well as the ability to withstand significant temperature drops, allows the use of this material in residential premises;

• the installation to be carried out is extremely simple. Most of the products are equipped with special locks designed to fasten the panels together;
• It does not require special care. It is enough to wipe the surface with a damp soft cloth;

It is not for nothing that laminate flooring is considered one of the most popular floor coverings of our time.

• with proper care and the absence of too harsh operating conditions, the laminate can last for many years;
• a variety of colors allows you to choose a laminate that suits almost any interior. Various textures and shades imitate natural wood, perfectly replacing it;
• the cost of laminate is not that high when compared to many other floor coverings.

But such a seemingly flawless coating like a laminate has its drawbacks:

• The “relationship” between laminate and water can hardly be called friendly. Moisture has a negative effect on this type of coating, and over time makes it unusable;
• preparation for installing laminate flooring means fully leveling the subfloor. Without this procedure, it makes no sense to lay the coating;
• if errors or inaccuracies were made during the installation, after some time the laminate will let you know about this with a characteristic swelling and squeak;
• only low-quality material can be purchased inexpensively. You will need to spend money on a verified and certified product.

Laminate is very often used as an alternative to natural wood floors

The main characteristics of linoleum

Linoleum is a somewhat older and more familiar material for us. Almost everyone has come across it, and this flooring does not need a special introduction. However, let's take a look at all the pros and cons to compare them with laminate flooring.

Pros of using linoleum:

• unassuming and versatile material that is suitable for use in almost any environment and room;
• on sale there are options for linoleum, made exclusively from natural materials, and therefore absolutely environmentally friendly;
• installation of the coating is so simple that it simply does not make sense to hire specialists for this work. Anyone can easily cope with the task on their own;
• linoleum does not rot and does not collapse even under prolonged exposure to water;
• provides additional sound and heat insulation of the floor;
• as easy to clean as possible. Cleaning of such a coating is made elementary and does not require serious costs;

Linoleum has rightfully won the place of one of the most versatile and popular floor coverings.

• it is highly resistant to damage and practically does not wear off over the years. However, the presence of these properties, as a rule, is directly related to the cost of linoleum;
• linoleum is a very inexpensive floor covering;
• a large selection of modern design solutions: a variety of color, texture and stylistic options.

The disadvantages of linoleum include the following:

• artificial composition of most of the options offered for sale;
• linoleum is subject to severe deformation when exposed to too high temperatures or fire;
• is particularly sensitive to chemicals and fat;
• does not tolerate low temperatures - cracks appear on the coating, which then break;
• in some cases, it cannot withstand the load permissible, for example, for a laminate, as a result of which it is damaged.

Modern linoleum allows you to make the floor a bright element in the interior

A brief comparison of the characteristics of linoleum and laminate

So which is better in the house, laminate or linoleum? Based on the above, let's compare the properties of these materials.

Laminate is able to withstand much more stress than linoleum. It is much more difficult to damage it, and the service life of the laminate with appropriate care is much longer. But in terms of water resistance, it undoubtedly leads linoleum... Unlike laminate, it cannot be scared by any amount of water.

The thermal insulation characteristics of these materials are very similar. They perfectly retain heat, protecting the room from additional cooling. Linoleum is easier to care for than laminate. After all, the ability to use various chemicals can come in handy more than once when it comes to floor areas that are prone to special pollution.

Laminate and high quality linoleum have approximately the same cost

In terms of the complexity of installation, both of these coatings are quite simple to install. The only essential difference is that for installation of laminate preliminary leveling of the base is required. Speaking about the features of the installation, it is also worth noting that the laminate, which is fastened with a lock connection, can always be disassembled to correct a defect, and then reassemble. Of course, in the case of linoleum there is no such option.

Both the one and the other option perfectly "get along" with the underfloor heating system, while having almost the same number of colors and stylistic solutions.

Helpful advice! In the case of installing a floor heating system, pay attention to the composition of the linoleum that you plan to put on top. Only natural material will not emit harmful substances when heated.

Laying laminate flooring is not difficult, you can do it yourself

The cost of laminate and linoleum: which material is more profitable

None of these floor coverings are considered overly expensive. However, their prices can differ significantly both among themselves and within the varieties of their group. Much depends on the manufacturer, the technical characteristics of this particular class of product and the type of coating.

Compared to laminate flooring, linoleum cheaper material. Its minimum price is 1.5-2 times lower than that of the simplest laminate. This is due to the synthetic nature of its origin. Interestingly, comparing the price indicators of average quality coatings, we get a different difference - about 2.5 times. Of course, laminate flooring will be more expensive.

The difference is even more noticeable among expensive materials: the price of vinyl laminate per m2 starts at 1200 rubles. While linoleum of the corresponding quality level will cost you about 450 rubles / m².

Despite the rather large difference in price, it is difficult to say unequivocally which material is more profitable. After all, a lot depends on your wishes, as well as the goals that you pursue.

Especially popular for laminate flooring is a pattern that faithfully reproduces the texture of oak.

Vinyl laminate: advantages over other types

Vinyl laminate has many advantages when compared to other types of similar flooring. This is directly related to its composition and manufacturing method. Let's consider some of its main advantages:

• the service life of vinyl laminate is much longer than that of a conventional one. Some manufacturers give up to 25 years warranty for their products;
• has even greater strength and tolerance to mechanical damage.Practically no loads can leave their mark on it;
• the moisture resistance of this material is so great that it can be installed even in the bathroom;
• vinyl laminate easily tolerates exposure to most chemicals;
• has a high rate of fire resistance;
• pleasantly pleases with an abundance of color and texture solutions. You can also buy vinyl laminate with various patterns;
• the exceptional thermal insulation properties of the vinyl material provide warm and comfortable floors in the house;
• maintenance and installation are carried out in a standard way.

Vinyl laminate organically combines surface aesthetics, practicality and durability

It is difficult to argue that vinyl laminate is completely environmentally friendly and as safe for health as natural wood or tiles. However, without external influence, polyvinyl chloride is inert and does not pose any danger to humans. Therefore, its use is allowed even in various medical and children's educational institutions.

Selection and installation of vinyl laminate

Vinyl laminate is very similar in appearance to the classic one, but it has a slightly different structure. The panels are composed of quartz sand, mesh reinforcement and compressed vinyl. A decorative layer is used as the outer surface, which can be decorated with almost any pattern by photo printing. To extend the life of the image, a protective layer is applied over the image, which consists of polyurethane varnish with the addition of aluminum oxide. The thickness of such a coating does not exceed 4 mm, and in terms of wear resistance it belongs to the 43rd class. Castle vinyl laminate is one of the most popular materials for decoration of apartments.

Depending on the way in which the laminate is attached, the following options can be distinguished:

• self-adhesive laminate;
• castle vinyl laminate.

Installation of interlocking vinyl laminate

In the first case, the difference is that the coating has a special smart tape that protrudes from under the base and is an adhesive tape. In the second case, the usual Click connection is used, which is presented in almost all classic laminates. A little later, we will consider whether it is possible to lay vinyl-based laminate on linoleum, or is it better to give preference to a traditional substrate.

The cost of such a flooring is quite high, so it is not always affordable, but the service life is quite worth it for this modest disadvantage of vinyl laminate. If you nevertheless decide to install this particular type of coating, then the video of laying vinyl laminate will be an excellent assistant for you in your work.

Quartz Vinyl Laminate

A relatively new, but already quite popular, quartz-vinyl material. What makes it different from everyone else? First of all - a three-layer structure, which provides an improvement in almost all technical characteristics of the coating.

Quartz-vinyl laminate is ranked as 43rd grade, and its cost is quite high compared to other types of coatings. And this is not surprising, because between the two outer layers of each element there is also the so-called filling of quartz chips. This manufacturing technology provides maximum strength and stability of the material, but at the same time affects its price.

Vinyl laminate combines the most important properties of a floor covering: the beauty of the wood pattern, durability, moisture resistance, ease of installation

In addition, you will have to pay for another pleasant addition - the treatment of the outer layer of the coating with a disinfecting compound. This is done by ionization with silver, which leads to a significant increase in price, and at the same time, provides maximum protection for the laminate. According to research by specialists, the number of bacteria living on the surface that has been treated in this way is reduced by 2 times.

How to Install Quartz Vinyl Laminate

One of the most important arguments in favor of using this type of coverage is the ability to mount it on any type of perfect base. Whether it's tile, old linoleum, or concrete flooring, you can easily place your quartz vinyl laminate on top of it.

Related article:

DIY step-by-step instructions for laying laminate flooring. Tips for laying a new floor in an apartment for a beginner. Materials, foundation preparation, laying rules: step-by-step photos of work, video.

The algorithm assumes the following actions:

• thoroughly clean the old coating from any kind of dust and dirt;
• process all irregularities and defects with putty;
• conduct laying laminate.

Quartz vinyl laminate has phenomenal toughness and durability

Helpful advice! Leave the new coating in the room for at least 2 days before starting the installation process. This will allow it to adapt to humidity and air temperature.

Quartz-vinyl interlocking laminate is laid in three standard stages:

1. Joining of laminate panels at the required angle.
2. Fastening elements together with locks.
3. Rolling the laminate with a special rubber roller.

Laying quartz-vinyl laminate is usually started from the corner of the room. Using a knife, the elements are separated from each other and a special glue is applied to the inside. Is it possible to lay a laminate on linoleum in this case? No, this is too demanding and expensive material to save on the basis for it.

Quartz vinyl laminate - a durable material for flooring

After reading reviews about quartz-vinyl laminate flooring, you will be convinced that this coating is worth its price. After all, the combination of ease of installation and excellent technical characteristics gives this material an indisputable advantage over many others, including linoleum.

Helpful advice! You can buy quartz-vinyl laminate in almost any building supermarket. However, do not overly trust the words of consultants. Be sure to pay attention to the labeling and the presence of a certificate for the product.

Is it possible to lay laminate on linoleum

The first and natural reaction to the question of whether it is possible to lay laminate on old linoleum is a sincere surprise. Why do you need to do this at all? After all, all the recommendations as one speak about the complete dismantling of the old coating and leveling the floor. However, sometimes old linoleum is left as substrates, which is designed to absorb sounds and create additional thermal insulation. However, it should be borne in mind that this is possible only if the linoleum meets all the requirements and standards, as well as not very large age (up to 15 years from the date of production).

Laying the laminate is simple enough that one person can easily perform the installation without relevant experience.

Using this method, you can significantly save on the purchase of cork or any other substrate. Linoleum itself will perform all these necessary functions, creating an additional "barrier" between you and your neighbors. In addition, heat loss will be significantly reduced.

How to lay laminate flooring on linoleum: can you do it yourself?

In order for the laminate, laid with your own hands on top of the old linoleum, to serve you with quality throughout its operational life, you need to heed the following tips:

• on the surface of the floor with laid linoleum there should be no irregularities with a diameter of more than 2 mm. This applies to pits, bulges and all kinds of drops;
• before laying the laminate, it is necessary to prepare the base - thoroughly wash the linoleum and let it dry completely;
• an additional layer of heat and sound insulating material can be laid between the layers of coatings;
• when choosing an insulating layer, make sure that its thickness is more than 2 mm. You need to place the material across the direction in which you will later lay the boards.

Laminate manufacturers have done everything to ensure that its installation does not cause much trouble.

Helpful advice! Before starting work, check that the linoleum is securely attached to the floor surface. Otherwise, it will be difficult to correct such shortcomings after laying the laminate, and sometimes even impossible.

In the light of this information, the following conclusion can be drawn: you can put laminate on linoleum. However, you should definitely take into account the condition of the old flooring. In some cases, it would be wiser to completely dismantle it and level the floor with a screed.

Helpful advice! Before laying the laminate on the old flooring, look under the linoleum. Have a variety of fungi, mold and other unwanted microorganisms appeared under it?

As a traditional substrates it is customary to use PVC flooring under the laminate. The fastening of plastic panels is very easy and allows you to get an even and solid base for laying laminate... If we talk about which is better - laminate or PVC tiles as the final coating, then the laminate will win an indisputable victory. At least because of its expensive and aesthetic appearance.

Laminate - a practical solution to a difficult question when choosing a floor covering

Linoleum under the laminate: photo examples

We have already figured out the question of whether it is possible to put a laminate on linoleum. However, this is not the only thing that can unite these two completely different, at first glance, materials. To buy linoleum for a laminate means to combine the most suitable quality characteristics for you with the design of the coating you like.

Often the difficulty lies in the fact that there is simply no way to waste time endlessly searching for a suitable shade. Online stores are in a hurry to help modern buyers. Photos and prices of linoleum for laminate are presented in catalogs in huge quantities. What is the principle for choosing a floor covering?

Three simple tips from experts will help you decide on the shade and texture:

Advice 1. The color of linoleum in the photo does not always coincide with the shade of the real product. And from this situation there are only two ways out - to go and see the option you like before buying, or to come to terms with the fact that plus / minus the product will differ by half a tone.

High-quality linoleum under the laminate can replace a more expensive and capricious coating

Advice 2. The characteristics and price of linoleum for a laminate completely depend on its type. Therefore, it will be useful to additionally ask about all the features of this type of coverage. Consider in which room and for what operational period you want to purchase linoleum.

Advice 3. The ideal option is to see samples before purchasing. Of course, making a purchase from an online store is unlikely, but only this way can allow you to get the most accurate idea of ​​what your floor will look like in the next few years.

Helpful advice! To check the quality of the sample, fold it in half and then inspect it carefully. The appearance of any kind of cracks is evidence of poor quality products.

Choosing linoleum for a laminate, you can not only save on material, but also make it easier to lay the coating and further care for it

Laminate or linoleum: summing up

And yet, what to give preference to: linoleum or laminate? What is better in the kitchen and what to put in the room? Having considered many factors for and against both materials, as well as several varieties of laminate that differ in their properties, let's try to summarize.

The question of the scarcity of color or textured solutions is not relevant for any of the materials.The options are endless and you can easily find exactly the shade and pattern that you like the most.

If we talk about the economy and the effect of the coating on human health, then the laminate flooring wins the indisputable victory. And although both of these materials can hardly be called exemplary, the laminate still has a detrimental effect to a lesser extent.

The laminate has a fairly extensive list of advantages that distinguish it from other floor coverings

One of the most controversial points is the service life of the material. It is difficult to give an unambiguous answer here, since everything depends on the quality of the coating used, as well as on the conditions of its operation. Although linoleum is traditionally considered to be a very durable material, some types of laminate can last longer.

Certain difficulties can arise at the stage of caring for the laminate. Its fear of moisture, as well as all kinds of chemicals, makes it difficult to apply in both the kitchen and the bathroom. But in this question linoleum benefits from its simplicity. A continuous canvas without joints and transitions calmly reacts to moisture and cleaning with detergents.

In terms of heat and sound insulation, these two materials provide comparatively the same protection, which largely depends on the thickness of the layer.

The advantages and disadvantages of laminate flooring force buyers to carefully weigh the pros and cons of installing this flooring

One way or another, what kind of coverage to prefer in your own apartment - only you can decide. Rely on your own taste and preferences, follow the advice of experts. Additionally, you can read the reviews - which is better, laminate or linoleum. Perhaps the experience of other people will be useful for you.