Linoleum

Linoleum is a material used for floor covering made from renewable materials such as linseed oil, pine rosin, cork dust and wood flour. These materials are heated and compressed into flexible sheets in a range of colours and patterns that are then inlaid or joined together. Since these materials are natural, they are also biodegradable which makes linoleum eco-friendly and suitable for green construction. Also, as it is supposedly non-allergenic in nature, the higher quality linoleum (uses linseed oil as main ingredient) is used especially in non-allergenic homes, hospitals and health care facilities. Linoleum is recommended as an alternative to vinyl or ceramic for which it has the same cost and durability but is advantaged because of its elasticity and its acoustic properties.  

'Cross section'

 During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, it was used mostly in hallways, passages and as a carpet surround. People now mostly associate linoleum with the kitchen as this is where it is now mostly used. It made standing easier from its elasticity and reduced breakage of dropped objects such as china.
The product “battleship linoleum” was also manufactured to meet the specifications of the U.S Navy for enclosed deck coverings. This product is mainly used in high-traffic areas like offices and public buildings but had to be removed from the ships because it was considered too flammable.


Durability depends on the quality of the inlaying and the amount of linoleum used to make the sheets. The inlaid linoleum floors are extremely durable whereas the cheaper patterned linoleums were printed with thinner layers, making them more prone to wear and tear. Because of its extreme durability, it makes for a suitable covering for homes with pets and children.

Residentially, linoleum is traditionally used in the kitchen. The wide range of colours, patterns and textures also allow for it to be more aesthetically pleasing. Because of its anti-static properties and easy-to-clean surface also means the amount of dust and mites to gather on the surface will be limited. This makes it suitable for people with respiratory disorders. Linoleum isn’t recommended for use in bathrooms as dampness in the concrete sub-floor could be an issue along with the steam and heat from showers, causing the linoleum to lift and bubble.

Commercially, linoleum is used in high traffic areas, for example; bus stations, airports and schools. It is suitable for this type of installation because of its durability and acoustic, bacterial and anit-static properties.


Linoleum used in a commercial setting

Linoleum should be prevented from direct sunlight as this will cause fading. Avoid sliding heavy furniture across this flooring type because this could create an air bubble. Linoleum should be swept or vacuumed regularly and as linoleum is sensitive to alkaline-based cleaners, mop only with cold water and clean with a cleanser when necessary.

Advantages

-          Extremely durable due to its coating

-          Can be made to look like wood, stone or any type of flooring one might choose

-          Less expensive way of achieving a more expensive look

-          Easy to clean and maintain

-          Attractive in appearance

-          Reduces the noise

-          Resistant to impact damage

-          Colour expands right through material so it has improved colour retention

-          Water and stain resistant

-          Quiet, elastic and comfortable

-          Long, useful life (up to 40 years)

-          Suitable to use with underfloor heating systems

 Disadvantages

-          Does require maintenance, will need polishing regularly

-          Not recommended in a space where moisture damage could be an issue (eg. Bathroom)

-          Can be punctured or nicked by sharp objects

-          Moisture in the sub-floor can cause warping or loosening

-          Highly flammable and catches fire easily

-          May get damaged by chair legs that aren’t rubber protected

The price for linoleum is flexible depending on the size of the installation. Average price is of $4.00 - $6.00 per square foot. Armstrong’s commercial grade linoleum is priced at $3.75 - $5.00 per square foot.

- Livvy Bain