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Linoleum Flooring
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Questions To Ask Yourself
One suggestion is to make a list with these questions or any others that you may have, and then write down your responses, thoughts or concerns. Take this list with you when you go out and start searching for new flooring. The flooring suppliers will be able to use this information and help guide you by showing you the types of flooring that will work best for you. Linoleum is one of the best choices for a busy family.
- Are there any pets? What type of pets do you have?
- Do you have children?
- Is your kitchen a high traffic area?
- Is your kitchen a high moisture area?
- Do you want a high maintenance or low maintenance type of flooring? Is your flooring in an area that is going to require frequent cleaning?
- Do you want an easy DIY project, or are you considering using a professional to install your new flooring?
- How long do you wish for your floor to last before needing replacement?
Linoleum Flooring Facts
Linoleum is extremely durable, and probably the least expensive. Linoleum flooring is often confused with vinyl sheeting. Actually, they are different. If you are an environmentally conscious person, linoleum is a natural product made from linseed oil, resins, recycled wood flour, cork dust, limestone and mineral pigments. The linoleum is mounted on a jute backing. Linoleum is also a naturally anti-bacterial flooring, as well as biodegradable. It usually comes in 6-7” squares with varying thicknesses.
Advantages of linoleum flooring
Color is seen all the way through the material with the exception of the jute backing. If it is torn, or scraped, you will continue to see the same color as before the damage occurred. Resistant to scratches.
Comfort
The softness underfoot makes this type of flooring for those who have difficulty in being comfortable when standing for a long period of time. The cushioning is a bit more forgiving if when breakables are dropped on the floor.
Cost efficient
Although linoleum is a bit more expensive than the vinyl flooring, the life span is approximately 40 years due to its durability and perfect for high traffic areas.
Installation
A special adhesive will be required for linoleum flooring. It is not a difficult project for a do-it-yourself. You can cover the existing floor, as well as sub-flooring with this type of kitchen flooring. However, if in doubt, maybe due to the condition of the surface where the new floor will be applied, it is suggested that you consult with a professional installer before you begin.
Maintenance
Linoleum is not a high maintenance flooring. As with most flooring, even carpet, most of the damage comes from the dirt and grit that gets ground into the materials. This can easily be avoided with the sweeping up of dirt on a regular basis. Placing mats or rugs in areas of high traffic such as at the entrance, the mats will be a way to catch loose dirt, debris, and moisture from shoe bottoms before the feet touch the bare floor.
It does not take much more than a damp mop, plain water, water and vinegar solution, or the use of a mild detergent. One of the mistakes that homeowners make is using too much water, such as spilling water on the floor then wiping it up. Do not do this. A damp mop is all you need. When water gets in between the squares, they will loosen up. It is also important to clean up any spills immediately.
You should polish or wax your linoleum flooring periodically according to manufacturers recommendations. You should use the products that they recommend since they are specifically designed for linoleum. Remember, linoleum and vinyl are different.
Linoleum is extremely durable, and probably the least expensive. Linoleum flooring is often confused with vinyl sheeting. Actually, they are different. If you are an environmentally conscious person, linoleum is a natural product made from linseed oil, resins, recycled wood flour, cork dust, limestone and mineral pigments. The linoleum is mounted on a jute backing. Linoleum is also a naturally anti-bacterial flooring, as well as biodegradable. It usually comes in 6-7” squares with varying thicknesses.
Advantages of linoleum flooring
Color is seen all the way through the material with the exception of the jute backing. If it is torn, or scraped, you will continue to see the same color as before the damage occurred. Resistant to scratches.
Comfort
The softness underfoot makes this type of flooring for those who have difficulty in being comfortable when standing for a long period of time. The cushioning is a bit more forgiving if when breakables are dropped on the floor.
Cost efficient
Although linoleum is a bit more expensive than the vinyl flooring, the life span is approximately 40 years due to its durability and perfect for high traffic areas.
Installation
A special adhesive will be required for linoleum flooring. It is not a difficult project for a do-it-yourself. You can cover the existing floor, as well as sub-flooring with this type of kitchen flooring. However, if in doubt, maybe due to the condition of the surface where the new floor will be applied, it is suggested that you consult with a professional installer before you begin.
Maintenance
Linoleum is not a high maintenance flooring. As with most flooring, even carpet, most of the damage comes from the dirt and grit that gets ground into the materials. This can easily be avoided with the sweeping up of dirt on a regular basis. Placing mats or rugs in areas of high traffic such as at the entrance, the mats will be a way to catch loose dirt, debris, and moisture from shoe bottoms before the feet touch the bare floor.
It does not take much more than a damp mop, plain water, water and vinegar solution, or the use of a mild detergent. One of the mistakes that homeowners make is using too much water, such as spilling water on the floor then wiping it up. Do not do this. A damp mop is all you need. When water gets in between the squares, they will loosen up. It is also important to clean up any spills immediately.
You should polish or wax your linoleum flooring periodically according to manufacturers recommendations. You should use the products that they recommend since they are specifically designed for linoleum. Remember, linoleum and vinyl are different.
Disadvantages
Linoleum needs periodic sealing. You can avoid this by purchasing flooring that is already factory sealed and then follow manufacturers care instructions.
Installation requires a smooth surface to which it is going to be attached to. You may want to ask the advice of professional installer, or pay a bit more for a professional installation to ensure that the project is done correctly.
Blooming Effect
Rather than having a discoloration from natural lighting, linoleum may yellow from lack of light, such as found in areas that are covered for throw rugs or mats. The solution can be taken care of by simply moving the rugs allowing for those areas to be exposed to the natural light.
Linoleum needs periodic sealing. You can avoid this by purchasing flooring that is already factory sealed and then follow manufacturers care instructions.
Installation requires a smooth surface to which it is going to be attached to. You may want to ask the advice of professional installer, or pay a bit more for a professional installation to ensure that the project is done correctly.
Blooming Effect
Rather than having a discoloration from natural lighting, linoleum may yellow from lack of light, such as found in areas that are covered for throw rugs or mats. The solution can be taken care of by simply moving the rugs allowing for those areas to be exposed to the natural light.
Styles and Designs
One of the favorite and beautiful materials being used for countertops as well as flooring is marble. However, marble is expensive. There are various styles of linoleum which give the appearance of having a marble floor. The various colors allow you to create a wood look, stone or marble look, a solid color floor, geometric designs and more. With linoleum flooring, use your imagination and create the design and color scheme of your choice.
Final Notes
Linoleum flooring is ideal for a busy family with active children and pets. It is low maintenance with a bit of daily sweeping and mopping. This type of flooring is comfortable for those who have discomfort from standing. The various colors and shapes allow for a custom design that you create yourself. Although this type of flooring is considered to be a DIY project, it may be wise to have your flooring professionally installed. You home will definitely be a “Go Green” home with linoleum flooring.
One of the favorite and beautiful materials being used for countertops as well as flooring is marble. However, marble is expensive. There are various styles of linoleum which give the appearance of having a marble floor. The various colors allow you to create a wood look, stone or marble look, a solid color floor, geometric designs and more. With linoleum flooring, use your imagination and create the design and color scheme of your choice.
Final Notes
Linoleum flooring is ideal for a busy family with active children and pets. It is low maintenance with a bit of daily sweeping and mopping. This type of flooring is comfortable for those who have discomfort from standing. The various colors and shapes allow for a custom design that you create yourself. Although this type of flooring is considered to be a DIY project, it may be wise to have your flooring professionally installed. You home will definitely be a “Go Green” home with linoleum flooring.
