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March 22, 2010  |  Login
Linoleum Floors in Your Home
By Eric Corey Freed
 

Invented in 1860 by rubber manufacturer Fredrick Walton, linoleum quickly became the floor and wall covering of choice for Victorian homes, and has been in use ever since. Though vinyl tiles replaced linoleum in popularity back in the 1960s, the surging interest in green materials is helping linoleum make a comeback.

Linoleum is a natural product made of linseed oil, pigments, pine rosin, and pine flour (sawdust). It’s covered with a natural jute backing. The finished material is thin and incredibly durable. It becomes harder in areas of high traffic. A linoleum floor can last 50 years.

As a green alternative to vinyl, linoleum offers numerous other advantages. The color and patterns are dyed all the way through to the backing, ensuring that the floor will not wear away. Linoleum is natural, making it biodegradable as well. Linseed oil is a natural antimicrobial agent, making it a great choice for kitchens.

Be sure to purchase only “natural linoleum,” because the term linoleum is sometimes mistakenly used to refer to a generic vinyl or linoleum floor. Avoid installing linoleum in damp areas, such as basements. Use only low-VOC or zero-VOC adhesives to install it.

 
 

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