What is the difference between laminate and linoleum
When renovating floors in houses and apartments, the homeowner is faced with a simple question: which flooring is better, laminate or linoleum? In fact, this question only seems simple, because both materials have their own advantages and disadvantages, which are closely related to their characteristic features.
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The main differences between laminate and linoleum
What is the difference between laminate and linoleum? Among the advantages of laminate, at least two can be distinguished, which are due to its solid structure. Firstly, it is beautiful, its texture matches the texture of natural wood of any species. Secondly, its solid structure makes it possible to hide minor unevenness of the surface on which it is laid.
Among its obvious disadvantages are the following:
- swelling from large amounts of water;
- low degree of sound insulation;
- complexity of installation;
- higher price.
(IMPORTANT) Wet cleaning of laminated flooring should be done using a minimum amount of water, otherwise it will simply swell and its appearance will be ruined. Since laminate is still a board, even the slightest knock on it, for example, steps in slippers, will be heard by the neighbors below.
Why is laminate better than linoleum?
According to many of our craftsmen, installing laminated floors is not particularly difficult for them, but, nevertheless, this work requires special knowledge. The price of laminate is quite high and, usually, exceeds the price of linoleum by one and a half, two times, but its quality is also higher.
What is the difference between linoleum and laminate? Linoleum is used quite often in our country. The reason for this is a number of its advantages, such as:
- high degree of sound insulation;
- it does not get wet and can be washed with plenty of water;
- durability;
- relatively low price.
However, laminate is much more aesthetically pleasing in appearance.
Which material is more environmentally friendly?
When choosing one or another coating, you can, in general, not give preference to either of them, but use both at once, only in different areas. In the kitchen, where water often pours onto the floor, it is better to lay linoleum, and in the living rooms, lay laminate. Both materials are environmentally friendly.
