photo courtesy of Marmoleum

Linoleum has been a mainstay floor covering for over 100 years because it's one of the few products made primarily from natural raw materials. It is a tough yet visually striking floor covering, highly resistant to heavy rolling loads and foot traffic.

Because linoleum is a natural organic product, its performance is enhanced by time, as exposure to air increases its durability. Add to that its warmth and comfort, and you have a great floor covering for any home.

Why is linoleum a good choice for my home?

Durable: Linoleum has twice the indentation resistance of vinyl composition tile and withstands heavy loads. When properly maintained, it will retain its appearance for decades.

Versatile: Linoleum is available in vibrant colours, patterns, and shapes for different room measurements.

Environment-friendly: Linoleum flooring is a highly recyclable biodegradable product.

Sound Insulation: The built in shock and sound absorbers of the cork backing act as an excellent acoustic insulation.

Hypoallergenic: Linoleum flooring is hypoallergenic and antistatic. It repels dust and dirt, making it ideal for hygienic areas such as kitchens and medical facilities.

Affordable: An affordable product to purchase, linoleum is even more cost effective because of its long-life and low maintenance costs.

Maintenance: Vinegar and a mop is all it takes to keep linoleum clean.

Easy Installation: Linoleum is suitable for areas where complicated cuts have to be made.

Safe: Linoleum is made up of a combination of materials resistant to cigarette burns and fire.

How do I decide on colour and style?

There is an endless array of colour and style options to choose from when buying linoleum flooring. Whether you prefer traditional plain colours, or fresh new hues, linoleum has come a long way as a design tool for your home.

Remember that light or neutral tones emphasize the impression of light and space, while darker shades create a feeling of warmth and intimacy. A stronger colour may be wonderful in a smaller space, but it may be too strong in a large space.

Large open spaces may require a larger scale of pattern to help define the space, while a small room would look best with a smaller scale pattern. However, most decorating rules can be broken. A small room can also look great with a strong colour or a dramatic pattern.

What do I need to know before buying?

• Linoleum gets it name from its main ingredient linseed oil. Linseed oil is pressed from the flaxseed, and then the oil is dried out and ground into a fine powder known as "linoleum cement". The cement is combined with ground cork and pine rosins, wood flour and natural pigments and pressed into the final product.
• Because the surface of genuine linoleum is porous, protect it with a floor polish. This will prevent spills or dirt from staining the surface.
• Professional installation is recommended.
• Bloom is the term given to the minor colour adjustments linoleum flooring makes when exposed to light. Because linoleum is made from natural raw materials, oxidation of the linseed oil may result in a yellowish cast. This visual discolouration is only temporary. Once exposed to light, the yellowing disappears and your genuine linoleum floor will "bloom" again.
• Do not use rubber or latex-backed mats because the antioxidant used to keep the backing from becoming brittle can permanently stain your floor. Instead, use a nonstaining, colourfast woven rug.
• One of the great characteristics of linoleum is that the wear layer goes all the way to the backing of the floor. Minor burns or scratches can be buffed out by rubbing with a soft nylon brush or a nylon-cleaning pad. You can cut out a gouge or scratch and replace it with good material. A professional installer can ensure that the pattern is aligned correctly and the seams are tight, so the repair is difficult to see.
• Installation of linoleum is limited to wooden or concrete subfloors above grade. It should not be installed over concrete floors below grade, as these will secrete moisture that can stain the linoleum from below.

How can I ensure value for money?

Our staff can help ensure you choose the best quality flooring for your budget and your home. Come and see our wide selection of linoleum samples, brochures, and catalogues.