You may have heard of linoleum as a more sustainable alternative to vinyl. It is a brilliant solid floor covering which is laid down on your subfloor and installed by using adhesive.
What is linoleum?
Linoleum is a mix of Linum, otherwise known as flax, and oleum, otherwise known as oil. There can be other substances added to the mix such as cork powder, limestone, pine resin and other organic pigments.
You should consider using linoleum for your flooring because it is durable and lasts a long time. On average, this could be between 20 and 40 years. Not only is it affordable, but this makes it more cost-effective.
As we mentioned, linoleum is sustainable; this is because it is a clean energy source. It can either be burnt or thrown into a garbage dump. Either way, it will degrade and be decomposed by bacteria. It is therefore disposable and does not remain on the earth for long.
Types of Linoleum
The sheet is the most common type of linoleum because it is easy to lay down. You simply remove the old flooring, measure how much material you need, and cut it appropriately. Consequently, use commercial-grade adhesive to stick it down. This linoleum has the greatest range of colours and designs, which is ideal for trendy interiors.
Tile linoleum is an affordable alternative to ceramic flooring. It looks similar in that they are rectangular or square slabs, and can be arranged in pretty patterns. These slabs are usually 2.5mm thick, which is much thinner than plank linoleum.
Click and lock linoleum is the last type of linoleum. It is a mix of the two types of linoleum mentioned above, in that it can come as a sheet or as tiles. As opposed to them, it does not require commercial-grade adhesive and is therefore one of the easiest to lay down. Instead of using the adhesive to stick it on the floor, it simply ‘clicks into place.
Design of Linoleum
Plain linoleum is the most basic type. Its thickness varies from 2-4mm, which is standard. This linoleum is best for regular rooms, especially if you are renting a house or apartment. This is because they are available only as homogenous, monochrome colours. Popular dark shades include mauve, burgundy and charcoal. On the other hand, if you are looking for linoleum to reflect light and air out the room, opt for a lighter shade. These include pearls and pebbles.
Printed linoleum varies from plain linoleum in that it has a design. Otherwise known as stamped linoleum, it has a carving or painted pattern on it. An advantage of this is that the floors instantly appear more luxurious and help to elevate the appearance of the room. Examples include circular designs, intricate figures and more.
Inlaid linoleum is one of the most beautiful and complex types of linoleum. It is made by using different solid pieces of linoleum and joining them together to create elaborate shapes and styles. These pieces are small and fit together perfectly. If you are looking for unique flooring which you will not find anywhere else, this is the style you should consider. Two pieces of inlaid linoleum are rarely the same.
Advantages of linoleum
Water resistance is one of the main reasons why people may opt for linoleum. When you live in a home with children, pets, or even chaotic adults, the mess is inevitable. Unlike carpet, linoleum does not stain and you can simply mop up the wine stain without stress. There is no need to spend a fortune on luxury products in order to clean the floors. However, if there was ever a stain, you can use cheap ingredients such as baking powder and white wine vinegar.
Strength is becoming an increasingly important factor in flooring. Having floors which are durable is significant as the cost-of-living increases. Linoleum floors last for decades, which means that you will not have to replace them every couple of years. You can also recoat and paint them if you decide to revamp your house.
Eco-friendly materials are one of the main advantages of linoleum floors. Along with bamboo and cork, linoleum is one of the most sustainable options out there. Nevertheless, unlike other materials, it does not compromise on strength. When you decide to remove your linoleum flooring, you can simply incinerate it. It can be composted, or simply chucked away. This is because of its biodegradability, like wood.
Variety is vital when choosing the floor. Linoleum comes in a range of thicknesses, designs, colours and types. Even though you may have a style in mind, it is always beneficial to consider all choices. You may even find something you prefer to your original idea!
