Linoleum's Comeback

(images from Forbo Design Inspiration)

Linoleum, first manufactured in 1863, is made from natural materials including linseed oil, resins, recycled wood flour, cork dust, limestone and mineral pigments, and is typically mounted on a jute backing. The finished product has natural bactericidal and anti-static properties that reduce the presence of dust and dirt and the subsequent growth of household mites and bacteria.  It is fully biodegradable and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.  

Be careful to not confuse linoleum with vinyl composition tile (VCT), a widely available tile manufactured from petrochemical products. Vinyl flooring products gained popularity in the early 30s as a less expensive and relatively less flammable alternative to linoleum. Unfortunately the fire retardant chemicals used to protect VCT release toxic compounds in the event of a fire.  

Another drawback to VCT is that its color or pattern is limited to the top layer of the tile. If that top layer is scuffed or damaged, the tile will most likely need to be replaced. On the other hand, Linoleum is a homogenous product with pigment that runs throughout the thickness of the tile making it much more resistant to daily wear.

Vinyl products are flexible and relatively easy to install while the rigidity of linoleum sheets and tile products make installation more difficult. Most manufacturers recommend that linoleum be installed by a trained professional, possibly increasing your cost per square foot.  However, Forbo, the largest manufacturer of linoleum in the world, recently developed Marmoleum Click,  a linoleum tile mounted on high density fiberboard. Click tiles are great becuase they eliminate the need for adhesives and are easy enough for a DIYer to install. 

At an install cost of around $6/sf and lifespan of several decades, linoleum is one of the least expensive, longest lasting sustainable building products on the market. It is easy to clean and appropriate in wet or high traffic areas. We know you're imagining your grandma's kitchen, but we think linoleum deserves a second look!

To purchase Marmoleum in Houston, visit New Living in Rice Village. Other linoleum manufacturers to consider include Armstrong and Johnsonite.