Which is cheaper: laminate or linoleum, which is better to choose and what are the styling features. Options for budget flooring. Which, according to the expert, is better - laminate or linoleum? More environmentally friendly laminate or linoleum in the apartment

Laminate and linoleum are the most common types of flooring. Over the past decade, interior designers and buyers have chosen laminate flooring as it is believed to better mimic wood flooring. However, the linoleum production technology also does not stand still, and in terms of aesthetic and operational qualities, linoleum is no longer inferior to its eternal rival.

Comparison principles which is better - laminate or linoleum?

Before us, as consumers, the eternal question arises: which is better - laminate or linoleum? The choice is not easy. Let's think logically.

We will be looking at the application of these floor coverings in a living space. It is customary to use laminate in living rooms and bedrooms, linoleum in the kitchen, balcony. And only the hallway is the place where these materials are used in equal proportions.

As a result, we compare which is better laminate or linoleum for an apartment, in a hallway, 23 grade material. A room with high traffic and pollution levels.

Laminate VS Linoleu: which is better?

Criteria for evaluation:

1. Appearance
2. Ease of installation
3. Coating strength
4. Sound absorbing properties
5. Thermal conductivity and heat retention
6. Environmental friendliness
7. Ease of care
8. Life time
9. Ease of repair

So, the initial score is 0-0.

Which is better in appearance?

In terms of the number of colors, textures and patterns, linoleum is superior to laminate. When using linoleum, you can achieve various visual effects and solve non-standard interior design problems. Imitation of granite chips, natural stone or colored geometric shapes in linoleum is better.

The choice of textures and colors for the laminate is less. But it is believed that it looks "richer" and more comfortable, and is suitable for any style of interior. The imitation of natural wood and parquet in the laminate looks better.

The second nuance is the joints. In a small room with a simple geometry, linoleum is laid in a single sheet, but with a large area or bends, it is put joint to joint, which can be very noticeable and spoil the whole impression. In this sense, the laminate really looks more advantageous, but we cannot give it a victory point due to the nature of the installation (more on this below, and you will understand why).

What looks better laminate or linoleum - everyone decides for himself. Who likes what. There is a draw - 1: 1. But for the number of texture variations, we give linoleum 1 extra point.

What is cheaper laminate or linoleum?

The range of these floor coverings is available in different price categories. Naturally, the cheapest representatives of linoleum and laminate flooring lose to their expensive counterparts. But since we compare coatings with approximately the same characteristics, the picture is as follows: the average price of household linoleum is per square meter, the laminate will cost per square meter.

Add in the cost of the backing, which is required for the laminate and not required for linoleum.

The winner is obvious - 1 point for linoleum!

Which is easier to stack?

Ideally, both materials require an extremely flat floor, and in this case, their installation will not be difficult even for a novice builder. Both coverings will have to be cut if there are protrusions, but this problem is easily solved.

For uneven surfaces and slightly sloping surfaces, variations are possible. If the small depressions successfully hide both coatings, then the bulges will be problematic. In the case of the laminate, when laying, since the grooves may not coincide, and in linoleum, after some time, all these bumps will be very noticeable and even the appearance of cracks and tears is possible. For linoleum, slopes are not dangerous, and the laminate will have to be laid taking into account the direction of the slope.

Of course, it will not do without pitfalls. If the laminate is laid too tightly, then over time it will begin to creak and noticeable gaps will appear. This can also happen when the temperature and humidity in the room change. When leaving gaps between the wall and the first line of the laminate, a wide plinth will be required (some experts recommend not to put cabinets on the laminate in order to allow the laminate to "walk" a little). In this regard, linoleum has no such problems.

Summing up in this nomination, we believe that each coating has styling features, therefore we do not take them into account. In terms of ease of installation, laminate and linoleum are equal and each is awarded a point.

Which coating is stronger?

In terms of resistance to external loads, the laminate wins. It is almost impossible to accidentally scratch it, it is not afraid of the claws of pets, heels. Linoleum of the class in question is less stoic: it deforms under the weight of bulky furniture, the top layer can be damaged by sharp hairpins, dog paws, and can also melt under the influence of a hot object (for example, if a lighted cigarette falls or a hot pot is placed on it. It is unlikely, but there is still a chance).

It should be noted that laminate flooring can wear out in places of regular use under heavy loads.

Since we are considering a hallway, it is likely that sand will periodically accumulate there, interaction with which is undesirable for both coatings, since micro-scratches may appear in which dust will get stuck and over time it will become visible to the naked eye.

Taking into account the described nuances, 1 point is awarded to the laminate.

Which coating is the best at absorbing noise?

In this category, the undoubted leader is linoleum. This is due to the composition itself and the number of layers in this coating. If the bottom layer is made of felt, then your movements will be barely audible.

Unlike laminate, which by its nature is very "sonorous". Even if you walk barefoot (not to mention shoes with any heel), the neighbors below will know exactly where you are. And if you have children or a small dog in your house, the way they walk will be heard throughout the apartment building. A high-quality substrate will save, but it will cost much more.

Without hesitation, the score goes to linoleum.

Which coating keeps you warm better?

In this matter, we are awarding a draw. First, both of these coatings have approximately the same thermal conductivity. Secondly, a lot depends on the substrate. Thirdly, both laminate and linoleum allow you to install the so-called, but that's another song.

As for which surface is more pleasant to walk on, it is difficult to find a definite answer, since it all depends on personal preferences.

Which interacts best with water?

I must say bluntly - laminate is afraid of water! Under the influence of water, the laminate begins to swell and deform, and the liquid that has penetrated under the laminate substrate will not evaporate quickly, which will cause the appearance of mold, mildew and all other similar delights. If there is a flood, then most likely there will be serious repairs.

Linoleum, on the other hand, is able to retain water on the surface, and in the event of a large "flood" it can be removed, dried and laid back without loss.

Another point to linoleum.

Which coating is more environmentally friendly?

A very modern question. Here you need to look at the manufacturer, his reputation and the additives he uses. It can be said that these floor coverings will be equally safe when manufactured in accordance with the existing standards and approved requirements. At the same time, "Chinese fakes" or materials from an unknown manufacturer can emit vapors hazardous to health.

When buying, pay attention to the quality certificate badges.

A point to each.

What is easier to care for?

There are several nuances here. On the one hand, laminate flooring attracts dust and gets dirty faster, but it does not "absorb" dirt. Dust does not stick to linoleum, with significant pollution (remember that we are considering a hallway) it is much more difficult to wipe it off. Especially, this applies to the black stripes from the boots.

On the other hand, laminate flooring is picky about a lot of moisture and used detergents. Linoleum is less capricious in this respect.

There is no clear leader. Draw again.

What will the laminate or linoleum last longer?

As already noted, the technologies for the production of these materials have significantly improved over the past few years, so it is difficult to determine the clear leader in this category.

The manufacturers of both floor coverings assure that the classes in question will last more than 10 years. The service life will naturally be influenced by the load, extreme situations that we cannot take into account when awarding points.

We analyzed

Buyers choose floor coverings most often based on four basic criteria - cost, beauty, practicality and, paradoxically, fashion. Of the materials of the "economy" and "business" series, the most interesting are laminated parquet and linoleum products in all their variety.

Elastic coatings have been produced for a little less than a century and a half. Over the past decades, the formula of the product and its properties have changed significantly for the better. Today, linoleum is a flexible floor and wall finishing material, produced in the form of roll layers or modular sections (tiles, planks).

In terms of composition, there are two types:

Natural or marmoleum

Marmoleum.

It is made from a jute base, on which a mixture of linseed oil, natural sap, wood flour, pigments and other components is applied. The surface is coated with protective wax or varnish.

The resulting elastic material is characterized by safety for children and adults, wear and moisture resistance, bacteriostatic and slip resistance. The requirements for laying marmoleum are high, but in operation the flooring is durable, easy to maintain and resistant to household chemicals.

Of the minuses, we note the high price, as well as the characteristic smell.

Synthetic or PVC coated

The polymer analogue of marmoleum was developed more than 60 years ago and today most of the collections in many respects are not inferior to natural linoleum, parquet and even porcelain stoneware. PVC material is considered more practical because it is durable, resistant to abrasion, water, aggressive household chemicals, various biofactors, and easy to operate.

Thanks to various production technologies, homogeneous (single-layer) and heterogeneous (multi-layer) products of all price categories, from "economy" to "premium", are produced. But the most important advantage can be called a huge number of decors in all kinds of shades, including a new or aged wood, natural and artificial stone, glossy ceramics or matte granite, textiles and much more.

The disadvantages of PVC coating are chemical odor (which quickly disappears), as well as high requirements for the base.

Both types of elastic flooring materials are available in four series:

Thus, linoleum finishing materials can be safely called universal, presentable and easy to use. At the same time, marmoleum will cost 2-7 times more expensive than a synthetic analogue.

Laminate - pros and cons

Thin laminated parquet was patented as a floor covering in the late 1970s. This material was developed as a budget analogue of solid wood flooring and parquet boards. Today, laminate flooring is positioned as a practical and durable floor finish for every wallet.

Unlike linoleum, laminated flooring is hard, but multilayer. Consists of (top to bottom):

The covering is made in all, from 21 to 43. Thanks to this, laminated parquet is easy to choose for any type of room. The average service life, subject to correct installation, is 10-20 years. The advantages of the material also include aesthetics, durability, maintainability, ease of maintenance and practicality. The covering can be laid on the floor in the kitchen or bedroom, office or shop, restaurant or school. But many consider the main advantage of the laying method - "floating" locking, without the use of glue, screws and other types of fixation.

Disadvantages of laminate flooring (HDF-series): swelling upon prolonged contact with water, accumulation of a static charge on the surface, a specific smell (which disappears in 1-2 weeks), the need for soundproofing, as well as high requirements for the base during installation. The latter is especially important, because the comfort and service life of the flooring depends on it.

What to choose

Let's make a reservation right away - we compare products of only well-known brands that strictly monitor the quality of their products and constantly certify them - Forbo, Grabo, Juteks, Pergo, Haro, Krono Group, etc.

For clarity, let's draw up a comparative table for the main characteristics.

Thanks to the table, it can be seen that an elastic coating is cheaper and more practical, but at the same time, laminated parquet, due to its rigid structure, better imitates wood. Expert opinion:

Often buyers are interested in what warmer... According to this indicator, it is not entirely correct to compare coatings - different thicknesses, many subspecies of products that differ significantly from each other. A striking example is marmoleum and PVC linoleum or HDF laminate and PVC laminate.

If we take averaged values, then the thermal conductivity coefficient of laminated parquet is 0.15-0.33 W / (m * K), the linoleum indicator is 0.17-0.38 W / (m * K). The difference, at first glance, is obvious, but a lot also depends on the density of the coating, section, type of base and other parameters. For example, a good, calendered linoleum of a semi-commercial series has almost the same thermal conductivity as a 32-grade HDF laminate with a thickness of 8 mm - about 0.16-0.17 W / (m * K). As a rule, sellers do not have detailed information. To get accurate indicators, ask the store for a product passport (supplied in the kit for each batch of goods) or look on the manufacturer's website.

Often, buyers try to figure out what more environmentally friendly... At first glance, the question is controversial. Manufacturers of laminated parquet claim that their products are 90-95% wood. But at the same time they are silent that the remaining percentages are melamine, phenol-formaldehyde, urea-formaldehyde and other rather poisonous compounds used as binders, surface protection and other things. At the same time, natural marmoleum is approved practically all over the world for installation in children's, school and medical institutions as the most environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic and bacteriostatic material. In the same way, PVC coating from the series "antibacterial", "sanitary" is approved for use. What is more harmful and more dangerous in the end?

In fact, everything is simple. A long-established certification system will help you resolve this dilemma. When conducting tests, Russian certifying organizations check the compliance of laminate and linoleum with all mandatory standards, including the presence of toxic substances in the composition, the level of their release into the air (maximum permissible concentrations - MPC), etc. Linoleum from Tarkett or Forbo, as well as laminate from BerryAlloc or Kaindl undergoes all types of research with equal success and receives a full package of documents confirming the safety of products: a sanitary and hygienic certificate, a certificate of conformity, and fire safety.

There is one more important point. Some large manufacturers understand that it is easy to intimidate buyers with various myths that are not entirely clean on hand come up with marketers and PR masters. Therefore, additional certification of products is ordered on a voluntary basis. For example, Tarket has the right to label its linoleum with the Russian sign “Leaf of Life”, and the German laminate from HDM has been assigned a similar environmental identifier “Blue Angel” (Der Blaue Engel).

Thus, it does not matter what color or thickness of the covering in the apartment is planned to be laid. Choose quality products that comply with Russian and international safety standards.

Advice! If you need repairmen, there is a very convenient service for their selection. Just send in the form below a detailed description of the work that needs to be performed and you will receive offers with prices from construction teams and firms by mail. You can see reviews of each of them and photos with examples of work. It is FREE and non-binding.

When planning to remodel the floor in an apartment, homeowners are thinking about what kind of covering to put on the floor. Of course, solid board or natural parquet is a luxurious and presentable option, however, not everyone has a decent amount in their pocket for this.

Therefore, most often people choose more budget options - laminate or linoleum. There are reasons for laminate flooring, but linoleum also has many advantages. In the article, we will consider the features of each of these materials and find out which one is best for an apartment.

What is good about laminate

Laminate flooring can often be found on sale with the label - "natural coating". This is due to the fact that the composition of the laminate includes natural cellulose fibers, however, this material, of course, is not completely natural. A real artificial polymer resin binds the fibers together. It turns out to be a kind of hybrid of natural and chemical materials.

pros

Laminate is a multilayer material, based on ordinary MDF or HDF. Its great advantage is that a transparent polymer resin is applied to the coating on one side (outer), which protects the vulnerable wood layers of the material from moisture penetration. But the coating will not withstand a large amount of water.

On the photo is a laminate for an apartment

If you purchase a high-strength laminate (it is marked with the numbers 34), then such a material is very strong and can withstand significant loads. His price, of course, will be quite expensive, but such a laminate can last at least 30 years without losing its external decorative qualities and operational properties.

This coating is very aesthetically pleasing. Looks like natural wood or solid board, gives the room a noble appearance, fits perfectly into any design.

The variety of laminate flooring allows you to choose the material for almost any design. This floor covering can be of different colors, patterns, can imitate any type of wood, even stone and leather.

On the video - which is cheaper for an apartment: laminate or linoleum:

Minuses

Laminate flooring should not be washed with large amounts of water, it is highly not recommended to spill liquid on it. Water can swell and deform laminate flooring. It only tolerates light cleaning with a damp cloth well. Due to moisture intolerance, laminate flooring will be impractical to use in those areas of the apartment where the likelihood of humidity is increased - in the kitchen, bathroom, hallway. Water can destroy the coating so that the planks will completely deform, lose their appearance and become unusable.

Is it worth laying linoleum

Rubber linoleum is characterized by increased elasticity, due to which it is easy to install and operate, however, due to its high toxicity, it is not suitable for domestic use. In our apartments we use PVC linoleum, or PVC for short.

pros

This flooring is cheaper than laminate - this factor can sometimes be important.

The moisture resistance of linoleum makes it an indispensable coating for kitchens, hallways and bathrooms. Linoleum is very practical, it is not afraid of spilled liquid, frequent wet cleaning, while it does not lose its external and technical characteristics. Linoleum is even able to hold back the water pressure for some time in emergency situations.

In the photo - rubber linoleum

Among all the variety of types of linoleum, you can even find a natural, so-called, marmolinoleum. This type of material has a jute base, and the drawing on it will be made using natural dyes. This option is worth keeping in mind if you want a natural material that has the practical characteristics of linoleum.

The material has several of its varieties, which differ significantly in operational and aesthetic characteristics.

So, household linoleum has low wear resistance and not too high decorative qualities, but it is the cheapest floor covering.

But the commercial version, although it costs much more, however, has such high technical and aesthetic characteristics that it can serve without problems for several decades.

But what reviews exist about cork underlayment under linoleum, you can find out

Minuses

The main disadvantage of PVC linoleum, which is used for apartments, is its low aesthetic properties. Few dare to lay linoleum in living rooms - it greatly "cheapens" the overall appearance of the room. This is one of the most serious disadvantages of the coating.

Due to the fact that linoleum is a completely synthetic material on an adhesive basis, the coating has a solid texture, practically does not allow air to pass through, therefore, the room does not "breathe", ventilation and air circulation are disturbed in it. It is for this reason that linoleum is recommended only for those rooms where people are not constantly. These are premises that have a purely practical purpose - a bathroom, a kitchen, a hallway.

On the video - which is better for the kitchen: laminate or linoleum:

Linoleum can "sit down" over time, that is, after a few years you may be surprised to notice that the coating no longer reaches the walls, but moves away from them. Dirt can get clogged in these gaps, as a result, the overall aesthetics and appearance of the room are lost.

Comparison of materials

Insulating properties

When choosing a floor covering in our cool latitudes, an important nuance is how much a particular material is able to protect an apartment from the cold in winter. This property of both linoleum and laminate depends on how thick the material is. If you want to choose warm linoleum, then pay attention to its variety with a felt base or with a fabric one. And the warmest laminate will be the one that has a thickened substrate.

It should be noted that linoleum, due to its soft texture, has excellent sound-absorbing characteristics - you can literally walk silently on it. But the laminate does not have sound-absorbing properties - booming footsteps will be heard throughout the apartment. However, if the laminate has a high-quality and thick substrate, then this problem can be easily solved.

Environmental friendliness

It should be noted that both of these materials do not emit toxic substances. This alone makes them completely environmentally friendly floor coverings. However, when linoleum burns, it can emit harmful vapors, which makes it difficult to dispose of.

Of course, homeowners themselves are rarely involved in the disposal of flooring, so this factor can be considered insignificant. But the roll material does not pass air very well, making it difficult for it to circulate in the room. Therefore, in terms of environmental friendliness, laminate wins.

Transportation

In terms of transportation, laminate is much more convenient than linoleum - its small blocks can be compactly packed, in contrast to bulky linoleum rolls. Sometimes linoleum has such a significant width that it is difficult even to transport it in an elevator - you have to lift it to the desired floor on your own.

Mounting

In this regard, both materials are quite simple, however, laying laminate flooring requires more knowledge and skills than linoleum flooring. For linoleum, sometimes just a couple of hands, special glue and a good eye are enough - and the coating will be laid evenly.

And the laminate has to be assembled and adjusted like puzzles, so you have to try a little more. On the other hand, in order to lay linoleum, you will need to level the floor, but for a laminate, this is not necessary.

If necessary, several damaged laminate planks can be replaced with new ones - such a number will not work with linoleum - if the material is damaged, it will be necessary to completely re-cover the entire coating in the room.

Linoleum is a softer material, therefore, less wear-resistant - stains and scratches easily remain on it, it is afraid of mechanical damage.

Moisture resistance

In this regard, linoleum is much ahead of the laminate, since water is not a problem for it. Where the laminate is twisted and deformed, linoleum will hold out steadfastly without losing its appearance and technical properties.

Appearance

Rolled materials for external presentability are inferior to hard floor coverings. Therefore, in terms of aesthetic characteristics, laminate flooring wins. Although linoleum is capable of skillfully imitating various types of wood, colors, patterns, textures and shades, it is immediately clear that this is an imitation, and not a real, say, oak floor.

Floor covering of different rooms

Let's figure out what to prefer as a floor covering for various rooms in the house.

Living room

In this central room of the apartment, of course, laminate will look better, as a more presentable floor covering. Modest and practical linoleum does not "fit" here too.

On the photo - laminate in the living room

The living room should make an impression - guests gather here and meetings are held, therefore, by its appearance, this room should demonstrate the material wealth and taste of the owners. Laminate flooring better meets this condition.

Bedroom

For this room, it is also better to choose a laminate, since the bedroom is not of great practical importance - there will not be a lot of dirt, moisture, and you will not need to constantly clean it up. Laminate flooring will better emphasize the beauty and relaxation of the bedroom, especially if a light-colored material is chosen.

On the photo - laminate in the bedroom

Kitchen

In the photo, linoleum in the kitchen

Since the kitchen is a place where stains, splashes and other sources of contamination are unavoidable, you need a floor covering that will keep the room tidy. And here is what parameters should be paid attention to, the information from the article will help to understand.

Bathroom

As for this room, linoleum is best suited here, since water leaks and constant splashes during hygiene procedures are not excluded in the bathroom. Laminate flooring may not withstand the high humidity of this room.

On the photo - linoleum in the bathroom

Hallway

For the hallway, linoleum is better suited, since street dampness and dirt first of all get here. The most practical way to protect your floor from leaks is with a material that is simple and easy to maintain. But how to glue linoleum to the floor and what is the price of glue for linoleum on a wooden floor, you can find out from this

On the photo - linoleum in the hallway

But whether it can be used and how it can be done correctly, the information from the article will help to understand.

What characteristics of Tarkett semi-commercial linoleum exist, you can find out if you read this

Summarizing

We examined the main characteristics of laminate and linoleum. As you can see, both materials have their pros and cons. And each of them is suitable for individual areas in the house. Therefore, the best choice would be to use your material for different rooms. But linoleum and laminate in this case must be selected in such a way that they are as similar as possible in design and color - this will create the appearance of a single coating.

When choosing a floor covering, of course, you want to prefer something more reliable, durable, natural and pleasant. But the price of natural stone, cork, as well as parquet flooring inspires the consumer to find a more economical alternative. This is especially true for those owners who are planning only short-term cosmetic transformations. In these situations, you can compare two options for materials, namely linoleum and laminate. It would be better to consider these two floor coverings given several factors that are most important to the modern consumer, such as cost and shelf life.

The most important selection criteria

If you are faced with the task of deciding which is better - laminate or linoleum in an apartment, then you need to pay attention to the price of the material, external indicators, ease of installation, as well as safety. It is important to consider that you will most likely do the laying of the material yourself, so that the budget floor does not turn out to be more expensive through the use of professional help. It is also important to pay attention to how each of the types of material tolerates exposure to water, since you will periodically have to do wet cleaning. Soundproofing, as well as heat engineering characteristics are also important qualities.

Comparison of materials by external characteristics

If you are thinking about what is better - laminate or linoleum in an apartment, then you need to pay attention to the aesthetic indicators of both coatings. Due to the fact that the described finishing materials have a rather low price, they are both popular with consumers. In the store, the buyer is presented with numerous options that have all kinds of colors and textures. You can choose both linoleum and laminate in imitation of natural materials such as granite, wood, marble and even leather. In this struggle, it is impossible to determine the winner by the outward sign, since linoleum and laminate flooring today are produced in very attractive design solutions.

Comparison of materials by cost

If you still haven't decided which is better - linoleum or laminate, consumer reviews are worth considering. Initially, the preponderance in terms of price is on the side of the PVC coating, which refers to linoleum. It is worth noting that his expensive natural prototype loses in this race. Laminated flooring will be 2.5 times more expensive than PVC material. This indicates that linoleum in all respects is much cheaper than laminate. If we compare the average price indicators, then linoleum, of course, will be cheaper.

Comparison of safety materials

If you are faced with the question of which is better - linoleum or laminate, reviews on this parameter should be studied. The issue of safety is of great interest to consumers, it is divided into several criteria, one of which is environmental friendliness. Both materials are synthetic. Despite the fact that the laminate contains lumber in the amount of 80 percent, their connection is carried out by an artificial method, where polymer binders are used, as well as chemical components. If we consider budget linoleum, then it can be classified as vinyl flooring. It is made as a laminate in terms of the balance of the ecological situation, however, it will be quite simple to dispose of laminate coverings, which cannot be said about linoleum.

Consumers often pay attention to this when they think about whether laminate or linoleum is best for the bedroom. The latter version of the material does not decompose on its own, and when exposed to fire, it begins to smoke. He has the ability to develop allergies in humans. In both cases, before buying, you need to familiarize yourself with the certificate, which should indicate the possibility of using the coating for the arrangement of residential premises and public institutions. These documents must indicate the amount of formaldehyde. Experts say that this indicator should be close to zero. As a last resort, this number should be negligible. If the product does not have a certificate, then it is advisable to refuse to purchase it.

Risk of injury

If you are thinking about what to lay on the floor - laminate or linoleum, then you must also pay attention to the ability of each material to ensure that a person may be in danger during its operation. So, there is a risk of injury when moving on the surface. In order to eliminate such an unpleasant property, the manufacturer gives the surface of the coating a relief, which, at the same time, increases the realism of the simulated structure.

If a cheap laminate flooring turns out to be flooded with oil or water, you can slip on it, however, it must be borne in mind that such a topcoat does not withstand exposure to oil or water, so this case can only be classified as a conversation. It should also be taken into account that both types of materials described are classified as combustible. That is why, finding out which material is more environmentally friendly and safer, there is no way to identify a winner in this area.

Styling features

If you are thinking before purchasing - laminate or linoleum, what to choose, then you must take into account that deviations in the control of the rough base should not exceed 2 millimeters, as for the laminated and PVC coating. Otherwise, linoleum may deform, tear in poor-quality areas, and as for the laminate, its locking system may require a complete replacement.

The underlay must be placed under both coatings, however, such manipulations are not necessary for laying linoleum. Moreover, the reverse side of the coating is equipped with a layer of expanded polystyrene or felt. Based on this, as well as taking into account your own experience, you can choose the coating that is right for you.

Economic benefits

Considering linoleum or laminate flooring for purchase, the pros and cons of each coating must certainly be studied. It is important to compare the technological features. Thus, if you want to complete the work in a shorter time and spend less effort, then it is preferable to choose large-sized linoleum. After all, it will be much easier, because the laminated boards need to be adjusted in size and connected to each other. But experts say that laying the laminate is not such a difficult and time-consuming task, it will only be necessary to follow the instructions and follow the rules. However, this will still take more time, which is why you should think about what to choose - laminate or linoleum.

Which is better, an expert opinion will help you understand. Experts say that linoleum can be fixed to the surface with glue or with double-sided adhesive tape. This can be considered an additional cost item. Laminate floors are rarely equipped by joining elements with glue. When laying the laminate using a technology called floating, it is not attached to the base. Whereas if the linoleum is laid on glue, then it will no longer be possible to correct the errors. After installation, laminate flooring can be disassembled and re-laid. It is not necessary to do this in the same place, it is permissible to use the boards in any other room. Quite often, consumers think about what to choose - linoleum or laminate when they want to install a heating system in their home. Both coatings are compatible with underfloor heating, whether electric or water-based. In the struggle according to this criterion, none of the coatings breaks out to the first positions.

Shelf life

If you do not know what to choose - linoleum or laminate, then you can pay attention to one more criterion, which is expressed in the duration of the service life. In this matter, the primacy can be given to linoleum. The owners will not have to think about replacing it for 10 years, some manufacturers guarantee the possibility of using such a floor for 30 years.

If you buy a cheap laminate, it will last for about 5 years, and then it will begin to lose its quality characteristics and appearance. Such coverage quite often attracts those buyers who are used to changing the environment every three years. If you choose a laminate floor, which is one of the expensive options, then its shelf life will be 10 years. If you take good care of such a floor, then its quality characteristics will be better compared to cheap linoleum.

Practical component

Thinking about what to choose - laminate or linoleum, you also need to pay attention to the features of the operation of each coating. It is impossible to wash the laminate, for example, as well as fill it with water, as it can warp. After exposure to water, you will have to part with such a coating. The maximum that you can afford with this floor is processing with a well-wrung out rag. But such a coating will not withstand the impact of heavy objects at all. However, an acrylic or melamine finish will prevent dents, cigarette burns, and scratches. Care with the use of chemical and abrasive products for the laminated coating is not allowed. If you are thinking about what to choose - laminate or linoleum, you must take into account that the latter option can be cleaned by deck. This is true if the installation was done with a solid carpet.

Such cleaning can also be carried out in the case of a coating, which is made up of separate seams welded canvases. If the seams were not welded, then this method of care must be forgotten, since the substrate will be soaked and become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. It is quite easy to burn through such a coating, which cannot be said about the heat-resistant variety of the brand. Linoleum easily tolerates blows, but the heels and thin legs of furniture, as well as the sharp claws of pets, will be fatal for it. Thinking about which is better - laminate or linoleum in terms of practicality, it is worth awarding victory to the vinyl-based material, as it lasts longer.

Sound insulation and thermal performance

If you still have not decided for yourself which is better - laminate or linoleum, then you also need to pay attention to sound and thermal insulation. The insulating properties of both materials are poor. These indicators directly depend on the thickness of the laminated boards and on the presence of a substrate on the back of the linoleum.

If we talk about vinyl and chipboard bases, then they do not interfere with the passage of noise and heat. These tasks for them should be performed by felt, a composite layer, as well as expanded polystyrene. Due to the fact that the laminate is laid using a floating technology and is not fixed to the rough base, the use of a substrate acts as a necessary step. Otherwise, it will clatter underfoot.

Choosing laminate or linoleum, which is better for the kitchen, you need to think in advance. If we talk about soft linoleum, then it does not respond so loudly with noise when walking. But if it was laid on a cement floor without the use of thermal insulation lining, then the coating will be very cold. In this matter, none of the materials can also be awarded primacy.

Application area

Many consumers do not know what to choose - laminate or linoleum. What's better? An expert opinion can help you decide. Experts say that it is definitely worth considering the appearance of the coating. For example, laminate flooring looks somewhat noble compared to linoleum, but it is more capricious and sensitive to moisture. This indicates that it is less commonly used in kitchens and sanitary facilities. It is most often used where there is a periodic need for repair (this applies to hallways, children's rooms, bedrooms and living rooms). But linoleum does not care about all the problems. You can wipe it off from dirt as much as you like, using any means (except abrasive) for this. The vinyl flooring fits anywhere, however, it is quite rare to find consumers who want to lay linoleum in children's rooms, living rooms, and also bedrooms. Quite often, its installation is carried out in bathrooms or hallways. As a conclusion, we can say with confidence that none of the materials is complete without restrictions, therefore, in this matter, it will not be possible to award priority to anyone.

Transportation features

If you are thinking about what is better to lay - laminate or linoleum, then initially you also need to pay attention to the features of transportation. It will be quite simple to deliver exactly the laminate to the place, which is neatly packed by the manufacturer in separate bundles. You can even carry the material in the trunk of your car, but an elevator will help you to get to your apartment.

In this matter, with linoleum, everything is more complicated. If the kitchen needs repair, laminate or linoleum can be laid on the floor. However, before that you need to choose one material. It should be noted that it will be quite difficult to cope with linoleum upon delivery, since it is sold in dimensional rolls. The larger the area of ​​the room, the more the material will weigh, and the roll will be too bulky to drag it into the elevator. It will be necessary to spend additional money on delivery and services of movers. In the matter of ease of transportation, it is the laminate flooring for your home that wins.

Finally

If you are thinking of what material to lay - laminate or linoleum in an apartment, then you need to consider all the parameters of each coating. If we take into account the above circumstances, then linoleum wins in this race with a score of 3: 1. But the durability and practicality of the vinyl coating will not convince the consumer that it is necessary to use it, and not the noble-looking laminate, which is based on the material of the woodworking industry.

Quite often, not all are important points for the consumer, but only a few criteria, which are expressed in cost and appearance. Buyers pay attention to whether the material is environmentally friendly. But not many people know how to make sure the seller's words are true. Quite often, certificates and other documentation are simply hidden from the consumer. In no case should you put up with this if you are concerned about the health of your loved ones.

Many people think that laminate flooring is not comfortable enough for a living space, since it is quite difficult to navigate through it, for example, in house slippers on a rubber solid base, without creating a lot of noise. This can be a real problem for families with small children. That is why, before purchasing, you must especially carefully consider all the criteria for choosing a floor covering that are most important for you, taking into account the interests of all household members, financial capabilities, interior features, etc.