Linoleum Flooring

Invented in England in 1863, linoleum flooring is made from a mixture of pine resin, wood flour, powdered cork and oxidized linseed oil. It was widely used until the 1950s, when vinyl sheet flooring became more popular, but in recent years has been rediscovered. It is now considered a durable, ecologically friendly and cost effective method of flooring.

Benefits of Linoleum Flooring

Although linoleum was popular for several decades, it was long overshadowed by vinyl flooring. Recently, linoleum's popularity has surged, and a new generation is discovering its benefits:

It's durable. Linoleum flooring can last up to 40 years, and does not show scuffs or scratches as easily as wood floors. Its flexibility and resiliency make it more comfortable to walk on, and because it's water-resistant, it works well for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. It's also safer, because it does not burn easily or create static electricity. Because it requires less maintenance than vinyl flooring, it also requires less work and money to maintain, and is ideal for high-traffic areas.

It's better for the environment. Linoleum is naturally biodegradable -- unlike vinyl flooring, which does not break down and cannot be recycled. Linoleum creates less waste during manufacture, and can be broken up and composted when it wears out. In addition, it creates few volatile organic compounds, which are contaminants, if installed using a low-VOC adhesive. Linoleum is a favorite among "green construction" advocates, because it is made from natural, non-toxic materials, and doesn't contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde or asbestos.

It's versatile. Linoleum works well for residential and commercial buildings, including apartments, retail stores, institutions and offices. It is used not only for flooring, but also for baseboards, trim, countertops and stairs.

Disadvantages of Linoleum Flooring

While linoleum is versatile, it does have drawbacks. Linoleum resists short-term exposure to water, but can be damaged by moisture in the sub flooring (a situation you might see in a basement, for example). It can also be damaged by harsh chemicals such as acids, alkalis, or petroleum solvents. And linoleum does not absorb sound as well as carpet. In addition, while linoleum tile can be installed by do-it-yourselfers, linoleum sheeting usually requires professional installation. It is more expensive than vinyl flooring, but is comparable to wood flooring and carpet.

Caring for Linoleum

Linoleum requires little maintenance. To keep it in good condition, sweep frequently, and mop with mild detergent periodically. A small amount of baby oil added to the water can help replace the floor's natural oils, which are lost over time. The floor should be re-sealed about once a year, using wax suggested by the manufacturer, or any water-based wax. To remove the old layer of wax, use a mixture of one part isopropyl alcohol to three parts water, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals and solvents; cleansers with either a low pH or high pH can cause discoloration and surface damage.