How does linoleum flooring contribute to a healthier and more sustainable living environment?

 When most people think of Linoleum Flooring, they might picture the floors in their elementary school cafeteria or the kitchens in their grandparents' homes. However, linoleum is a versatile flooring option that can be used in any room and can last for decades with proper care. Linoleum is a resilient flooring style that is made from natural, renewable materials. It is also water-resistant and can withstand heavy foot traffic.

Wood, resin and limestone provide strength

Unlike vinyl flooring, linoleum is crafted from a variety of sustainable and renewable natural materials, including linseed oil (the "lin" in linoleum), cork powder, wood flour, pine resin and ground limestone. It is then pressed onto a jute backing. The linseed oil acts as an adhesive and the cork, wood, resin and limestone provide strength. The linoleum can then be printed with patterns or solid colors. Linoleum is typically rolled out and installed in sheets, though it can be cut to size for installation.

 A good choice for kitchens and bathrooms

Linoleum is durable and water-resistant, making it a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. It's also made from a mix of renewable natural resources and is biodegradable. It is also softer than other flooring types, which makes it less prone to scratching.

 Be more expensive than other flooring options

Although it can be more expensive than other flooring options, linoleum is an affordable option for homeowners who want to make their home more eco-friendly. Compared to carpet, which tends to attract dirt and requires frequent vacuuming, linoleum is easy to clean and resists stains. Linoleum is also anti-static, which means that dust and debris won't stick to it like it does with other surfaces.

 An environmentally-friendly floor

While linoleum is an environmentally-friendly floor, it can still be damaged by chemicals and other substances that are used in the kitchen and bathroom. Using harsh cleaning products and steamers can damage linoleum, as can abrasive scrub brushes. If you plan to install linoleum in these rooms, make sure to protect it with a sealant.

Another thing to keep in mind is that linoleum can be dented by furniture legs or heavy items. This is why it's best to use a low-profile furniture or to avoid moving any heavy items on your linoleum floor. It's also a good idea to place felt pads under the feet of any furniture that is moved.

Conclusion

Unlike tile, which can crack or chip under heavy loads, Linoleum Flooring is resilient and will withstand many kinds of foot traffic. It's also relatively stain-resistant, assuming spills are cleaned up immediately. However, it isn't waterproof and can become porous if a lot of moisture is allowed to accumulate. This is why it's a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but not in basements or children's playrooms. Linoleum can also be scratched by sharp objects, such as a knife or key. If you do accidentally scratch your linoleum, you can repair it by warming the affected area with a hairdryer and then smoothing the surface. You can then reseal it with an acrylic or enamel floor sealer. This will help the linoleum remain stain-free for many years.