Painting 1950s lino instead of replacing it with vinyl flooring.

Calendargirl

Maybe a daft idea, but could the existing lino be left as it is?

You say it’s in good condition, and fitted well.

Could the ‘retro’ look be retained, and enhanced with rugs and soft furnishings?

In a bathroom?

Arrgh! Thanks for the tip. Hadn't realised asbestos might be in the mix.

Any lino produced before about 1980 may contain asbestos in the backing. It's safe enough so long as it's not broken up so could be just covered. I don't think I would play around with it without getting it tested just incase.

Real Lino doesn't contain asbestos surely!

It's just solidified linseed oil with pine resin, wood flour, and cork dust pressed onto a jute backing.

Maybe you are thinking of early forms of vinyl? That often had asbestos in the paper or felt backing.

Or maybe you are thinking of asbestos glue to stick it down?

It probably contains asbestos so you are best covering it or painting it. Provided it's intact don't remove it.

I'd certainly conserve the antique lino , if it is good quality linen lino . Why paint it or cover it.

Maybe a daft idea, but could the existing lino be left as it is?

You say it’s in good condition, and fitted well.

Could the ‘retro’ look be retained, and enhanced with rugs and soft furnishings?

Painting over lino sounds like a labour intensive job with uncertain results. I’d give the lino a scrub and leave it to air for a few days. Then have a professional fit your preferred new floor covering. There are some lovely vinyls available to choose from and the fitting service would be worth it for a nice finish.

Because it's in good condition, I'd lay vinyl flooring straight on top.

Can you simply put a new covering over the existing old one?
This would save a lot of work.

Ive just googled this and it does require a lot of preparation and you need to use the correct products for painting……..might be worth investing in a new floor covering