Is Linoleum Still Popular?
If you’re a homeowner looking for an eco-friendly floor, linoleum may be just the thing for your home. However, before you choose to install this flooring, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of this material.
Linoleum is made of a cement made with linseed oil and resin that’s mixed with limestone, cork and wood. It’s then rolled into sheets and baked for 21 days to cure.
Is Linoleum Still Popular – It’s Eco-Friendly So Why Not
Linoleum is one of the most eco-friendly flooring options available. The materials used to make it are natural, renewable and recyclable.
Its manufacturing process is simple and relatively low-impact. It uses linseed oil, pine rosin, ground cork, limestone, and pigments for color.
These ingredients are mixed in a large tank and exposed to oxygen, which oxidizes them to produce cement. Then the mixture is molded into planks, tiles, or sheets.
Once the floor is cured, it is usually coated with a polymer finish that helps protect it. This is important because linoleum can give off VOCs as it oxidizes over time.
Another advantage of linoleum is that it is easy to clean. It can be disinfected with water and soap. However, it is best not to use solvent-based cleaners because they may damage linoleum. Likewise, linoleum floors are highly stain-resistant and will typically last decades with proper care.
It’s Durable
Linoleum is a resilient flooring option made from solidified linseed oil, rosin, drying agents, and powdered wood, cork, limestone, and pigments. The oxidation process that occurs during the manufacturing process helps to make the material harder and stronger.
As a result, it is extremely durable and a good choice for heavy commercial or industrial use. It also has a point-loading strength of 150 to 700 psi, and it actually increases over time.
Moreover, it has anti-microbial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. Tests have shown that linoleum inhibits the growth of Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Another durability benefit of linoleum is that it is relatively easy to clean. You can damp-mop with a pH neutral cleanser and use a mild soap or disinfectant to remove stains and dirt.
It’s Versatile
If you are looking for a flooring that is versatile and suited to all types of design and styles, then linoleum may be the answer. This flooring material is soft and comfortable underfoot, as well as easy to clean.
Linoleum is also durable and comes in many colors and designs. It can be used for both residential and commercial applications.
This flooring is made of natural materials, which makes it a green choice for your home. It is manufactured from renewable resources including linseed oil, rosin, tree resins, powdered wood flour, cork dust and pigments.
In the process, linseed oil is oxidized and polymerized to form a cement that holds the various ingredients together. Then, the linoleum is spread and cured to make it resistant to moisture and heat. It’s then mounted on a jute or canvas backing. Lastly, it’s available in sheets, tiles and planks. It’s also easy to install, making it a great option for any room of your home!
It’s Affordable
Linoleum is a versatile and eco-friendly flooring option. It’s inexpensive, durable and easy to install.
It’s made of renewable natural ingredients like linseed oil, cork powder, jute, and tree resins. This allows manufacturers to print vivid colors and patterns in a way that doesn’t fade over time.
This makes linoleum an affordable option for any homeowner. It’s less expensive than vinyl and comparable to wood, ceramic tile, and stone.
It is also fairly easy to clean and resists stains. Just sweep or vacuum frequently to keep it in tip-top shape.