Linoleum Tile Prices

The Costs 

• Average highest cost: $10 per square foot
• Average lowest cost: $3 per square foot

Linoleum tiles are considerably less expensive than traditional tile or vinyl flooring. The most inexpensive forms of linoleum tile are plain and come in 1-square-foot pieces. They lack texture and are usually a solid color. Higher-quality tiles have texture intended to evoke traditional tile and may be printed with more intricate designs.

It is usually possible to get linoleum tiles less expensively if they are purchased in bulk. It is common for flooring contractors to receive a special discount as well, so it is usually wise to speak with an installer before investing in linoleum tile. Oftentimes, it is possible to get a discount by purchasing linoleum tile that is discontinued or out of stock. It will likely not be possible to replace the flooring with more tiles of the same kind, but there is a lot of money to be saved pursuing these discounts.

The most expensive forms of linoleum are extremely hardy. It isn't uncommon for the highest-quality linoleum to be more durable than both tile and hardwood flooring in almost all aspects. However, this form of linoleum is not sold in square tiles in the same fashion nor is it sold in rolls. It must be installed on a custom basis and should be researched separately with the assistance of a qualified contractor.

Materials

Linoleum is a water-resistant flooring material. It is similar in some ways to vinyl flooring, but where vinyl flooring is made of a single cohesive substance, linoleum was constructed from linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour and similar materials, laid onto a canvas backing.

Today, this formulation of linoleum is considered archaic. It is more common to see linoleum that is simply solid polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, laid onto a synthetic backing. This makes it flame-retardant and less prone to difficulties with moisture. Homes with old-style linoleum might be well-served to replace it to avert damage in the future.

Advantages of Linoleum Tile

Linoleum tiles are very easy to install where tile and hardwood require much more specialized expertise. Finding contractors qualified to do so is usually not difficult. Generally, it is harder to remove previous flooring solutions than it is to install linoleum afterward. It is also viable for homeowners to install linoleum themselves if they are willing to acquire the appropriate tools.

Because modern linoleum is relatively simple to manufacture, there is a wide variety of options available with colors and patterns. The most common form of linoleum is simply white or off-white, intended to look like traditional tile. It is fairly easy to find linoleum tile in rich colors that will match a home's decor or with sedate floral patterns.

Linoleum is very easy to maintain. It doesn't require any sort of specialized chemicals to clean and can be swept, mopped and scrubbed as necessary. Maintaining linoleum is as simple as keeping it clean and making sure its adhesive isn't peeling around the edges. There is no need to resurface or grout it.

Disadvantages of Linoleum Tile

Linoleum has a few disadvantages as well. Linoleum is vulnerable to water if it is allowed to sit long enough at its edges. The adhesive used to adhere linoleum is frequently porous, and water can gradually wear it down and allow the linoleum to peel. However, this only applies to the edges of linoleum tile floors. The main surface is waterproof.

The threat of peeling is worth paying attention to, however, as the waterproof nature of linoleum tile means that any dampness allowed to creep under its surface will create an ideal environment for mold. If the edges of linoleum tile begin to peel for any reason, it's important to seal them again as quickly as possible. Mold can be very tenacious, and if it spreads sufficiently, it may be necessary to replace the entire linoleum floor to eliminate it.

Lower-quality linoleum tiles are prone to yellowing with age. This is more noticeable with white or off-white linoleum intended to mimic tile, and it is primarily a factor when the linoleum is exposed to direct sunlight. Linoleum tiles of other colors may similarly experience discoloration in the sun. This gives linoleum a lifespan of approximately five years if exposed to direct sun, though this may vary depending on the quality and color of the linoleum in question.

Last updated on Feb 14, 2017