SHOPPING GUIDE FOR LINOLEUM FLOOR

Cost

The cost of linoleum flooring per square foot

The linoleum floor you usually see comes in 6-foot and 12-foot long rolls, or 12-inch by 12-inch square tiles. It is usually priced in square yards rather than square feet, and the installation fee varies from $2 to $7. On average, the labor cost for installing linoleum flooring is $36 per hour but can also be priced by the project. The additional work may include the removal of old floors, laying the base, measuring, and caulking.

Although linoleum flooring is often mistaken as vinyl, it is made of a different material. Vinyl is made of polyvinyl chloride, which is a type of plastic made from oil. Linoleum is made from natural linseed oil (from flax), pine resin, wood powder, cork granules, and powdered limestone, all compressed on a layer of jute. Its appearance reflects the natural ingredients that in return give the linoleum flooring a subtle look and make it environmental-friendly.

Linoleum’s natural resistance to bacteria makes it an excellent choice for a nursery. However, as hard flooring, it tends to reflect sound rather than absorb it.

Linoleum is Not Waterproof But Has Great Water Resistance

Linoleum is not waterproof, which means it is not the first option for a bathroom or a basement where tends to get damp. It is unlikely for a kitchen to handle water that seeping from the ground, if you can clean the water and reseal the floor every year, then linoleum can meet the requirement for a regular kitchen. And you always have the option to decide on using waterproof vinyl if it is not something working out for you.

Types of Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum Tiles

The average cost for linoleum tiles is $3.50 per square foot, excluding the installation fee.
Pros: They can be clicked together for easy installation on existing flooring without using glue or nails. It is softer and warmer than vinyl. Linoleum tiles of various colors can be arranged into appealing patterns. Zero VOC makes it friendly to the environment. And the tiles are easier to replace.
Cons: The linseeds oil in tiles have a strong smell, which may last several weeks after installation.

Sheet/Roll

Linseed linoleum rolls cost an average of $2 to $2.5 per square foot.
Pros: It is made of renewable material. Water resistance, durability, with minor seams, make it the most affordable linoleum flooring type.
Cons: Once damaged, the entire sheet or roll must be replaced. The smell of linseed oil will last several weeks.

Commercial-Grade Linoleum Flooring

The average cost of commercial-grade linoleum flooring is $3.50 to $5 per square foot.
Pros: It is designed for high traffic area, scratch and dent resistant, made of renewable material, no VOC.
Cons: It cannot be repaired and has linseed oil smell.

Linoleum Flooring Installation

Linoleum flooring installation requires the most experienced DIYers or professional contractors. It needs to be cut preciously with professional tools. Only accurate measurement, proper materials, and professional knowledge can guarantee a successful installation.

The bottom floor does not have to be very strong, but it must be smooth. You must use a special adhesive when installing linoleum. Keep the floor covered with an acrylic sealant coating. Installed floors do not require special cleaning tools.