Photo by Steve Snodgrass on Flickr
Linoleum flooring was invented in the mid-1850s. It all began when an Englishman noticed that a rubbery skin, comprised of solidified linseed oil, had formed on a can of oil-based paint. Not long afterwards, manufacturing began.
Linoleum flooring is made from natural materials . This includes: solidified linseed oil (extracted from flax plant seeds), ground up cork and/or wood, pine rosin, crushed limestone, and natural pigments. The linseed oil will continuously oxidize, which makes the material more and more durable over time. The continuous oxidization also makes it harder for bacteria to multiply.
Additionally, it is made from renewable materials. This makes it is a more eco-friendly choice than other types of flooring. It is also biodegradable and recyclable.
Linoleum flooring is available in a wide array of colors (solid, flecked, and marbled) and prints/patterns (stone, tile, and wood). It is available in sheets or in tiles. You must be glue down sheet linoleum. For tiles, you can either have them glued down or floated. You can create patterns by mixing different colored tiles. Premade borders and inlays are also available.
Pros of Linoleum:
Linoleum is very durable, it can last for over 40 years when properly maintained. Although linoleum is not waterproof, when sealed it is water and mildew resistant.
Cons of Linoleum:
Linoleum needs to be periodically sealed. This is because it is porous. Unless you plan to keep it sealed and protected, do not put it in a kitchen or bathroom.
You can learn more about linoleum flooring here.
Other Types of Flooring:
If you’re not sure if linoleum is right for you, you can learn about other types of flooring here.