Linoleum is making a strong comeback in home renovation projects. Long forgotten in favor of synthetic materials like vinyl, this natural flooring is now regaining its former glory. But what are the real benefits of linoleum in 2025?
Eco-friendly, durable, and surprisingly modern, linoleum is attracting more and more homeowners keen to combine comfort, aesthetics, and environmental friendliness. Yet, it remains misunderstood and is often confused with other types of flooring.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn what linoleum actually is, its strengths, limitations, and the best places to install it in your home. Whether you're planning a kitchen, living room, or bedroom renovation, this article will help you determine if linoleum is the right choice for your needs.
- What exactly is linoleum?
- Why choose linoleum flooring?
- The Limits of Linoleum: What You Need to Know Before Buying
- Where to install linoleum in your home?
- Conclusion: Linoleum, a smart choice for a durable floor
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Linoleum
What exactly is linoleum?
Often confused with vinyl due to its similar appearance, linoleum is actually a completely different material, both in its composition and long-term performance. Unlike vinyl, which is a 100% synthetic product derived from petroleum, linoleum is made from natural, renewable raw materials.
A 100% natural material, really?
Yes. Linoleum is composed primarily of linseed oil (hence its name), wood flour, natural resin, cork powder, mineral pigments, and burlap as a backing. This mixture is compressed and then heated to create a dense, flexible, and durable surface.
This composition makes it one of the most environmentally friendly flooring materials on the market. Not only are its components biodegradable, but its manufacturing also requires little energy compared to other materials such as PVC or laminate.
Not to be confused with vinyl: the key differences
Although linoleum and vinyl look similar to the naked eye, their properties are radically different. Vinyl is a plastic, waterproof, and more flexible product , often used for its varied patterns and ease of installation. Linoleum, on the other hand, is more rigid, denser, and offers exceptional durability thanks to its homogeneous structure, meaning the color and pattern run through the entire thickness of the material.
Another important difference: linoleum develops a natural patina over time, giving it a unique character, while vinyl can lose its shine or delaminate with wear.
| Criteria | Linoleum | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Natural (linseed oil, jute, wood) | Synthetic (PVC, plasticizers) |
| Ecological | Yes – biodegradable, low impact | No – petroleum derivative |
| Impermeability | Average (if well sealed) | Excellent |
| Lifetime | 20 to 40 years old | 10 to 20 years |
| Interview | Easy, natural antibacterial | Easy, but susceptible to scratches |
| Aesthetic | Solid colors, matte finish | Wide variety of patterns and textures |
| Cost | Medium to high | Economical to medium |
| Laid | Professional recommended | Easy (click or paste) |
Why choose linoleum flooring?
Linoleum isn't just making a comeback for aesthetic reasons. Its technical and environmental benefits make it an increasingly popular option for contemporary homes. Durable, hygienic, and comfortable, this natural material has everything to appeal to homeowners concerned about their health, their wallets, and their environmental impact.
An ecological and sustainable floor covering
The main advantage of linoleum is its environmental profile. Made from renewable natural resources, it contains no plasticizers or toxic substances. It is also recyclable and compostable at the end of its life. This type of flooring is therefore ideal for eco-friendly or LEED- certified renovation projects.
In terms of durability, linoleum can easily last 30 to 40 years when properly maintained. Unlike some laminate or synthetic flooring that wears away on the surface, linoleum wears evenly, extending its appearance over the years.
Natural resistance to stains and bacteria
Linoleum has natural antibacterial properties thanks to linseed oil. This inhibits the growth of bacteria on its surface without the need for any chemical treatment. It's therefore ideal for homes with children or allergy sufferers, as well as for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and entryways.
Additionally, the top layer of linoleum can be reinforced with a protective varnish (depending on the manufacturer), which improves its resistance to stains and household products.
A lifespan of 20 to 40 years, depending on maintenance
One of the great advantages of linoleum is its longevity. Unlike some materials that need to be replaced every 10 or 15 years, a good linoleum that is well installed and well maintained can last for decades. It is also possible to revive it by polishing or lightly refinishing the surface.
Excellent underfoot comfort
Linoleum is naturally flexible and slightly cushioning, making it a comfortable flooring for long periods of standing, such as in a kitchen. It also absorbs some impact sound, improving the overall acoustics of a space.
Some versions are even compatible with radiant heating systems, adding thermal comfort during the cold months.
The Limits of Linoleum: What You Need to Know Before Buying
While linoleum has many advantages , it's important to understand its limitations before making your choice. Like any material, it has certain drawbacks that can affect its suitability depending on the intended use and installation conditions.
A material that requires professional installation
Linoleum is sold in rolls or tiles and often requires precise installation. Unlike floating floors or click vinyl, it generally requires gluing to the floor, with a suitable underlay and perfectly sealed seams in wet areas.
Improper installation can lead to bubbles, peeling, or premature wear. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to use a certified professional, especially for large areas or complex parts.
Sensitivity to excessive humidity if improperly installed
Although linoleum is naturally resistant to surface moisture, it is not completely waterproof like vinyl or ceramic. If it is not properly sealed, water can seep in at or underneath the seams, causing swelling or peeling.
This makes it unsuitable for damp basements, poorly ventilated bathrooms, or areas at risk of water damage. In these cases, glued vinyl or ceramic tiles may offer better performance.
Fewer style options than vinyl or engineered wood
Although manufacturers have modernized their linoleum collections, its pattern options remain more limited compared to other materials like vinyl or laminate. You'll mostly find solid, matte, or slightly marbled colors, but few realistic imitations of wood or stone.
It is therefore a choice that will be more suitable for sober, contemporary or minimalist interiors, rather than classic or rustic decors where hardwood or laminate are often preferred.
Where to install linoleum in your home?
Versatile, hygienic, and comfortable, linoleum can be used in many rooms of the house, provided certain precautions are taken when installing it. Here's an overview of the most suitable areas, and those to avoid.
Kitchen, living room, bedroom: the best rooms
Linoleum is particularly well-suited to living spaces. In the kitchen, it offers an easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surface that's comfortable underfoot, making it an excellent alternative to cold tiles. In a living room or bedroom, it provides acoustic comfort and warmth, while contributing to a healthy atmosphere without harmful emissions.
It is also a good choice for children's bedrooms, home offices and passage areas (corridors, entrances) where you want to combine aesthetics and ease of maintenance.
Is it suitable for radiant heating?
Yes, provided you choose linoleum that is compatible with this type of installation. Most modern products support radiant heating at low temperatures (below 27°C), but it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Thanks to its density and its ability to store heat, linoleum offers good energy efficiency when used with underfloor heating.
What to avoid: basement, bathroom?
Linoleum is less suitable for rooms subject to high humidity or the risk of water infiltration. Uninsulated basements, bathrooms with floor-mounted showers, or laundry rooms without a functioning drain are all high-risk environments.
In these cases, a coating such as glued vinyl or ceramic will be more suitable, as they offer better water resistance on the surface and in depth.
Conclusion: Linoleum, a smart choice for a durable floor
Linoleum is far from being a faded material. In 2025, it's establishing itself as a durable, comfortable, and environmentally friendly solution for homeowners looking to combine performance, style, and environmental awareness.
Thanks to its natural composition, resistance to bacteria, remarkable longevity, and everyday comfort, linoleum deserves a prominent place in your home renovation projects. It's particularly recommended for living spaces like the kitchen, living room, or bedroom, and is also suitable for families, people sensitive to allergens, or those looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Before making your choice, consider the technical limitations of the material, particularly regarding humidity and installation. Above all, make sure you choose a quality product that's properly installed to fully benefit from all its advantages.
Are you considering installing linoleum flooring? Contact the Emard Couvre-Planchers team today to discover our collections, get personalized advice, or request a free quote.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Linoleum
What is the difference between linoleum and vinyl?
Linoleum is made from natural materials such as linseed oil, wood flour, and jute. Vinyl, on the other hand, is a synthetic product derived from plastic. Linoleum is more environmentally friendly, while vinyl is completely waterproof.
Is linoleum pet friendly?
Yes. Linoleum resists light claws, doesn't retain hair, and is easy to clean. It's a safe and comfortable choice for homes with dogs or cats.
What is the average lifespan of a linoleum floor?
A well-maintained linoleum floor can last between 20 and 40 years. Its color runs through the entire thickness of the material, allowing for even wear and easy restoration.
Can linoleum be installed in a bathroom?
This is not recommended for bathrooms with an open shower or high humidity. Linoleum can absorb moisture if the joints are not perfectly sealed. It is best used in rooms such as the kitchen, living room, or bedroom.
