LINOLEUM FLOOR
Homeowners looking for green flooring are returning to an old favorite: the linoleum floor.
Linoleum was extremely popular before the introduction of “no wax” vinyl floor covering after
World War II. Today, its beauty, durability, and environmentally friendly characteristics are
making it popular all over again. Fredrick Walton, a rubber manufacturer, invented linoleum in
1860 and took out a British patent for the product in 1863. According to popular legend, he got
the idea when he noticed the skin of oxidized linseed oil that forms on the surface of paint. He
combined parts of two Latin words, linum for flax and oleum for oil, to name the new material.
Michael Nairn, a Scottish manufacturer, developed the inlaid patterns that were characteristic
of the linoleum floor for decades.
A linoleum floor contains linseed oil, rosin, wood flour, limestone, and natural pigments and is
backed with jute, all natural materials. Harvesting these raw materials and producing linoleum
demands relatively little energy, and there are no toxic byproducts. A linoleum floor can be
maintained using small amounts of water and no toxic chemicals. Linoleum can be recycled or
incinerated. It is so ecologically friendly that it contributes LEED points in designing “green”
buildings. Linoleum is an extremely durable floor covering. Many linoleum floors have been in use
for 40 years, even when installed in high-traffic areas. It is very easy to repair nicks or chips in
linoleum, and small scratches sometimes self-heal. Because linoleum has naturally antibacterial
properties, it is often installed in hospitals.
One of the most beautiful flooring types available today is the linoleum floor. In the Victorian
period, colors were generally muted, or even muddy. Today, improved dyes give vibrant color
to linoleum. The dye is present throughout the linoleum, not just on the surface. Linoleum is sold in
sheets or tiles. The sheets are six to seven feet (1.8 to 2.1 m) wide, and disguising the seams can
be difficult, so installing a sheet linoleum floor is usually a professional job. Most homeowners can
install linoleum tiles.
Linoleum is hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to bacteria. It’s easy to care for a linoleum
floor. Frequent sweeping and occasional damp mopping is all that is necessary for routine
cleaning. Products containing ammonia should not be used, as they can damage linoleum. The
floor should be waxed about once a year. Today, manufacturers recommend removing old wax
with a product formulated for use on linoleum and re-waxing with a liquid acrylic sealer.
TYPES OF LINOLEUM FLOORING
There are several types of linoleum in use, based on what they are made of and their colors and
shapes or patterns.
1. Sheet Linoleum – The most popular choice for linoleum flooring. Sheet linoleum is available in the
widest selection of patterns and colors and comes in 6'6" rolls, making it incredibly complex to
install. Unless you possess the necessary skills, sheet linoleum flooring installation should be
conducted by a professional
2. Linoleum Tile Flooring – Similar in shape and handling like any tile flooring material, but provides a
different set of benefits than using ceramic or stone files. Its organic make-up allows for eco-friendly
use in hospitals, nursing homes and other medical facilities or homes needing an anti-allergen
environment. It has natural water resistance that makes it a lower maintenance alternative to
ceramic or natural stone tiles. Linoleum has a different feel to it than ceramic or natural stone, and
hence it's considered a better material to stand upon for long periods of time.
3. Floating Linoleum Flooring – Considered the best choice for do-it-yourself projects when installing
kitchen flooring. This type of linoleum is installed onto a floor frame featuring click and lock edges
that snap into place. It comes in planks that require no adhesive, so there's minimal mess. The end
result is a great looking linoleum floor.
4. Forbo Linoleum – This is actually a linoleum brand, which produces different kinds of linoleum with
names such as Artoleum® Graphic, Scala, Piazza, Passione and others. The Artoleum® Graphic
product is the most popular, mainly due to its dirt-camouflaging technology. These linoleums are
durable and more resistant to heat than general types.
5. Solid Colored Linoleum – Extremely popular, providing a variety of colors and shades. The colors
are durable, resisting fading even over a long period of time.
6. Marble Linoleum – Provides a great and elegant look. Marbled patterned linoleum tiles provide
that fancy, sophisticated look at an inexpensive price.
7. Flecked Linoleum – Provides a unique pattern that adds distinction to any room where installed.
8. Patterned Linoleum – Available in almost an exhaustive variety of patterns, providing a wide
selection of different looks. These tiles are made tough but may require more to install so you can
perfectly match seams.
PROPERTIES OF LINOLEUM FLOORING
1. Made of natural materials: Linoleum floors consist of a naturally occurring substance called linseed
oil, which is extracted from flax seeds. ...
2. Anti-static properties: Being made of biodegradable material, linoleum floors have low static
resistance. This is especially important for commercial properties where static can be harmful to
employees or equipment.
3. Resilient and comfortable underfoot: Linoleum is known for being a resilient floor with a cushioning
effect.
4. Heat insulating: No need to mess with an underlayment, linoleum flooring rolls will trap in the heat
all on their own.
5. Made of natural materials: Linoleum floors consist of a naturally occurring substance called linseed
oil, which is extracted from flax seeds. ...
6. Anti-static properties: Being made of biodegradable material, linoleum floors have low static
resistance. This is especially important for commercial properties where static can be harmful to
employees or equipment.
7. Resilient and comfortable underfoot: Linoleum is known for being a resilient floor with a cushioning
effect.
8. Heat insulating: No need to mess with an underlayment, linoleum flooring rolls will trap in the heat
all on their own.
SUSTAINABILITY IN LINOLEUM FLOORING
Linoleum is one of the most sustainable flooring solutions on the market, appreciated for its natural beauty,
comfort and durability for over 150 [Link] the production of the first linoleum, linseed oil was the raw
material, hence the name “linoleum”: linum for glue and oleum for oil. Cork flour and jute fabric are the
other two raw materials that are important in its production.
A material made of natural and renewable ingredients:
- Linseed oil
- Pine rosin
- Wood
- Cork flour
- Jute
Tarkett linoleum is a versatile flooring solution made from 97% natural ingredients and manufactured at our
Narni site in Italy. It offers a range of traditional marble to subtle modern patterns, with a palette of natural
tones and contemporary colours. Our linoleum is sustainable and environmentally friendly, with 100% of our
ingredients positively assessed according to the Cradle to Cradle® eco-design framework. It is treated with
our unique xf² surface protection for extreme durability, easy cleaning and cost-effective maintenance.
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
To execute an ultimate Linoleum installation, first thing to consider is the subfloor. It must be level, flat, clean,
free from marks (no felt pen, marker etc…) sound, dry, solid, hard, smooth and not exposed to moisture.
Absorbency must be checked and adjusted to have moderately absorbent subfloor.
STORAGE
Before starting the installation, let the flooring acclimatize at least 24h before laying at room temperature
(minimum 18°C). Store the rolls upright, in a safe position, in a dry place, protected from heat and cold,
moisture, rust and rot, free from any contamination and not piled up or crushed under a heavy weight.
LAYING DIRECTION
Determine the position of the joints depending on the direction of the traffic, position of doors & windows…
Measure & cut the roll to the length of the room using a square. Cut only the jute backing of the Linoleum
before positioning. If the room is reasonably square, the sheets should run parallel to the incoming light. In
long, narrow rooms it is best to install the sheets along the length of the room. The sheets should be cut
longer than the room. All consecutive sheets should be installed in the same direction (EXCEPT Style Elle xf²,
installed reversed).
SCRIBING & CUTTING
To start the installation process, Linoleum sheet shall be scribed on its long and short side, then use a
trimmer to trim the production edges that may have been damaged to get a neat & precise cut.
GLUING
Install overlapping, cutting the second edge with the joint scriber (after gluing). Press the joint with lino
hammer. When spreading the adhesive, fold half of the sheet(s), apply the adhesive, fold back and press.
Repeat this operation for the second half. Always follow the adhesive manufacturer instructions especially
regarding waiting and working time. Ensure that the floorcovering makes good contact with the adhesive
and that all air is expelled. Use a roller and roll crosswise over the floor.
WELDING
Install sheets with a gap of approx. 0.5 mm at joint. Start hot welding operation (and grooving) minimum 24
to 48 hours maximum after gluing. Groove a ‘‘U’’ shape of max. 3,5 mm width, preferably by machine.
Depth of grooving 2 mm into the thickness of the material – just over the top of the jute (max.2,5 mm for
other product thickness’). Never groove Linoleum Silencio xf² to the top of foam. Carefully clean seam
totally free of residues. The recommended welding rod temperature is about 450 ºC. Use hot air welding
gun fitted with 5 mm traditional hot speed weld nozzle. When welding the rod must float out slightly on both
sides of the joint, on surface. Trim the welding in two successive operations using a “quarter moon knife”,
Mozart knife, or similar. The second cut should be done when the welding rod is cool down.
MAINTENANCE OF LINOLEUM FLOORING
DO:
Be sure to place doormats outside and rugs inside entrances. Dirt and grit are a linoleum floor’s biggest
enemy. They will scratch and dull the finish, allowing grime to collect.
Always use colorfast felt pads on the bottom of furniture legs to prevent stains and scratches.
Put protection under plants to avoid water damage, and move plants periodically. Linoleum requires
exposure to light in order to keep it from yellowing.
DON’T:
Never put a latex- or rubber-backed rug on a linoleum floor; it will cause a stain. Use only colorfast rugs with
natural backings.
Don’t let water stand on the floor—it will damage your linoleum.
Do not strip floors more than once a year.
Never use ammonia-based cleaners, as they will strip the polish from the floor and damage it.
APPLICATIONS OF LINOLUEM FLOORING
In addition to the environmental aspects, the floor covering proves to be extremely resistant due to its
elasticity and abrasion resistance and has hardly any traces of wear. Not for nothing, for example, schools,
hospitals, public institutions and companies use linoleum flooring adapted to their needs.
Linoleum can be installed in a large variety of applications, mainly where resistance to high traffic and
hygiene is required, such as education or healthcare facilities
ADVANTAGES OF LINOLEUM FLOORING
1. Sustainable
Linoleum flooring is created using all-natural ingredients including linseed oil, pine rosin, wood flour, cork
dust, calcium carbonate and natural pigments. Linoleum is biodegradable and won’t take up space in
landfills.
2. Low VOC
Linoleum flooring has a low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emission rate. Some VOCs have been
found to cause respiratory health problems in vulnerable people. It is also a safer option for people with
sensitivities to chemicals.
3. Many design options
Linoleum comes in a variety of shapes, patterns, colors and textures. You can find almost anything to suit
your project design. Most manufacturers offer wood, flecked, solid, striated, and marbled looks.
4. Hypoallergenic
Linoleum contains no latex, making it an excellent choice for people who have allergies or sensitivities to
some materials. It is also resistant to mold and mildew.
5. Sheet, tile and perimeter available
Linoleum comes in many different types, including a sheet, tile, and perimeter. Sheet linoleum can be laid
on new or old construction with adhesive, mastic or nails. Tile linoleum requires a rigid underlayment such as
plywood. Perimeter linoleum is the only type that is waterproof and should be installed in wet areas.
6. Durable
Linoleum flooring can withstand harsh conditions and most manufacturers provide a 25 year warranty. With
correct care and maintenance, your Linoleum floor could last up to 40 years!
7. Versatile
With the many types, styles, colours and design options available, Linoleum flooring can be used in
residential and commercial projects. It is ideal for kitchens, bathroom, class rooms, foyers and more.
8. Affordable
Linoleum is a very affordable flooring option. In comparison to floor coverings such as hardwoods and
natural stone, Linoleum is a cost effective solution at approximately $3 to $4 per square foot installed.
9. Resilient
Linoleum is a resilient flooring material, meaning that it provides underfoot comfort and characteristically
bounces back from repeated traffic or compression.
10. Low Maintenance
Linoleum flooring is water and stain resistant and only requires soap and water to be cleaned, making it
ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
DISADVANTAGES OF LINOLEUM FLOORING
1. Prone to scratches and moisture damage
Linoleum is soft which makes it prone to scratches and getting torn. Walking with high heels
shoes and pulling or dragging furniture will definitely damage the sheet linoleum rolls. The
ingredients of linoleum make it prone to moisture damage. Excessive humidity will damage your
floor and make it curl as it expands
2. Requires regular buffing and polishing
Unsealed linoleum flooring option will require regular buffing and polishing to prevent
discoloration or yellowing of its surface, losing its shine and luster
3. Newly installed linoleum do off-gas
When installed, linoleum does give out non-toxic fumes for about a few weeks and goes away
on its own. The linoleum seed gives out these non-toxic fumes that at a time may cause panic to
some homeowners.
4. Prone to sunlight damage
Linoleum just like cork flooring does fade on continuous exposure to sunlight. This may limit those
people who could have wanted to install it in outdoor areas. It forms yellowish hue on exposure
to UV rays for a longer period.
REFRENCES
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