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The difference between vinyl and linoleum flooring comes down to how they’re made, how much they cost, and how long they last. While similar in look, vinyl and linoleum are quite different. Vinyl is made from synthetic materials, but it’s waterproof and comes in a multitude of colors. Linoleum is made from natural materials, including limestone dust and linseed oil. You’ll need to seal your linoleum floors to protect them from water damage, but when properly cared for, they can last much longer than vinyl floors.

Linoleum floors generally last longer than vinyl floors. When properly cared for, linoleum floors can last 20 to 40 years or longer. On the other hand, vinyl floors last an average of 10 to 15 years—20 if you’re lucky. However, the key to a long-lasting linoleum floor is regularly sealing it to prevent water damage. You don’t have to worry about sealing vinyl floors.

Vinyl floors are cost-effective and can look nice when properly installed. However, vinyl floors aren’t very durable. They may only last for 10 years before they need to be replaced. Vinyl floors also contain synthetic materials that make them less eco-friendly than linoleum or hardwood floors, but hardwood floors cost much more than vinyl. Overall, vinyl floors are a great short-term way to make your home look nice, but if you plan to live in your home for decades, it might be worth considering hardwood floors instead.

Vinyl flooring may increase your home value, especially if installed right before it’s listed. While it’s not as durable as hardwood flooring, it mimics hardwood flooring in aesthetics, meaning buyers might fall in love with how the floor looks. Even if they don’t increase the value of your home, vinyl floors may help your home to sell faster, saving you a few mortgage payments.