In the year 1860, Frederick Walton, an Englishman, was the creator of linoleum flooring. He chanced upon the realization that dried linseed oil produced a strong yet pliable film on the top rim of a can of oil-based paint. Prior to acquiring a patent for his innovative product and adopting the “Lin” segment of the name from the linseed oil utilized in the procedure, he dedicated close to a decade to experimenting with the method, incorporating natural elements like cedar rosin, ground wine bottle residue, wood fragments, together with a backing of canvas or jute to the dried linseed oil.
Despite the gradual rise in popularity of linoleum, it eventually supplanted hardwood flooring as a cost-effective choice for both residential and commercial settings. Linoleum presented superior resistance to moisture and was a more economical alternative compared to the other flooring selections existing at that time, such as hardwood and tile.
Linoleum stands as a robust, eco-friendly flooring alternative, particularly in light of the current emphasis on entirely natural, environmentally sustainable materials. Similar to vinyl, linoleum is a resilient flooring that furnishes a sleek surface for walking and working. Due to this attribute, it was installed on the majority of US Navy vessels and continues to be utilized on submarines to this day. In the 1950s, vinyl, which was even more economical, gradually took its place.
Due to being predominantly composed of natural components in contrast to vinyl, which is manufactured utilizing petrochemicals, linoleum has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years with the shift towards eco-friendly building supplies. You can save money by ordering this flooring. You can see other economic flooring here.
Varieties of linoleum flooring
Selecting linoleum flooring is a relatively straightforward process since, in most cases, individuals already have a clear idea of their preferences when opting for linoleum flooring. Linoleum is offered in a variety of types, styles, colors, and unique shades. Prior to finalizing your purchase, consider several flooring alternatives.
Linoleum sheet flooring
Current sales data indicate that linoleum sheet flooring is currently the most favored. This is predominantly due to the wide array of patterns and colors it offers. This type of linoleum flooring is supplied in large rolls and necessitates intricate installation.
Linoleum tile flooring
This type of linoleum flooring serves as a superb alternative to costly ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles. It presents all the wonderful benefits of tile flooring and is equally visually appealing and attractive! Each section will provide a more comforting feel than tile and can even be placed over an existing pre-installed floor, provided the old flooring was correctly laid.
Clickable or floating linoleum floors
In terms of flooring innovation, this form of linoleum flooring is at the forefront. They are as easy to install as the majority of floating vinyl and laminate floors currently on the market. They provide glueless click-and-lock planks or tiles that result in very minimal mess during installation.
Ensure there is a minimum of a 3/8″ inch (10mm) gap around the baseboards and that the subfloor has been appropriately installed. This will allow for proper expansion, preventing detachment of the linoleum floor from the subfloor.
Linoleum flooring: Design options
Linoleum flooring presents consistent color and patterns throughout its thickness, ensuring durability without fading. Manufacturers now utilize advanced printing techniques to produce vivid colors, intricate patterns, and lifelike natural textures. This advancement provides an extensive array of design possibilities while upholding the practical advantages of linoleum. Contemporary linoleum has undergone substantial evolution from its vintage look, offering diverse options to complement various aesthetics.
How to pick the best linoleum flooring?
Despite its limitations, linoleum emerges as a superb flooring selection. The remaining decision lies in determining the type of linoleum floor you wish to install, assuming you are amenable to regular maintenance. Here are some initial considerations to ponder.
It is advisable to entrust sheet material installation to professionals. Opt for linoleum tiles or planks if engaging in a DIY project. Contemplate the added thickness of linoleum planks or commercially accessible alternatives if your new floor will endure heavy foot traffic or frequent spills. Note that seams in tiles and planks will be visible; sheet linoleum could be the optimal choice for a seamless appearance.
Pros of linoleum flooring
Here are some key advantages of opting for linoleum flooring:
- Crafted solely from natural and biodegradable materials.
- Unlike vinyl, it boasts color throughout its core, resulting in an extended lifespan. Hypoallergenic, antistatic, and naturally antimicrobial.
- Resistant to stains and fire due to its natural composition.
- Simple to install and aids in earning LEED points.
- Exceptional water resistance.
Cons of linoleum flooring
Several disadvantages of selecting linoleum flooring encompass:
- Less readily accessible compared to vinyl.
- Certain varieties incur higher waxing costs than vinyl.
- Limited pattern and color choices compared to vinyl.
- Prone to denting from heavy furniture.
Linoleum flooring: Installation
The installation of linoleum flooring differs from other alternatives and often requires professional assistance due to the inherent challenges. Precise cutting and specialized handling are necessary for linoleum sheets. Professionals typically affix sheets with adhesive and fuse seams for a seamless finish. If opting for a DIY installation, ensure your subfloor is impeccably smooth to avoid imperfections. Modern linoleum offers DIY-friendly alternatives like tiles and planks equipped with a click-lock system, facilitating adhesive-free floating installation. This method streamlines the process, akin to assembling Legos.
Linoleum flooring necessitates periodic brushing and mopping for cleanliness and demands minimal upkeep. Basic cleaning materials such as soap, water, and a conventional mop suffice for maintenance. Due to its exceptional water resistance, linoleum is suitable for use in bathrooms and kitchens, yielding favorable results. Nevertheless, the accumulation of standing water should be avoided, particularly with linoleum tiles, as continuous water penetration at seams may compromise the adhesive underneath.
The longevity of linoleum ranges from 20 to 40 years, rivaling that of engineered wood floors. There exist numerous linoleum installations that, when properly cared for, can endure for over 50 years. Nonetheless, warranties typically fall short of the anticipated lifespan. The settling or shifting of the subfloor, which exerts pressure on the adhesive and seams, generally represents the primary impediment to achieving a durable installation.
Over time and exposure to ultraviolet light, linoleum tends to acquire a slight yellowish hue, largely attributable to the utilization of natural linseed oil in the manufacturing process. Another hallmark of linseed oil is its pliancy, which contributes to linoleum’s prolonged lifespan.