Why Linoleum Flooring Stands the Test of Time
Linoleum flooring has probably not enjoyed the best reputation over the years. ‘Lino’, as it’s affectionately known, was seen as cheap and dated by some and was a victim of its own popularity. But the humble lino keeps on coming back for more. Why…? Because it’s a darn good all-around floor covering.
Linoleum flooring was ubiquitous during the 1950s and 1960s due to its many practical benefits. It’s durable, noiseless, waterproof, easy to clean and comes in an infinite array of colours and patterns. It’s also extremely cost-effective. Although linoleum flooring eventually went out of fashion, it’s currently in the midst of a decorating comeback, thanks, in no small part, to its eco-friendly credentials.
Here we cover a few lino-flooring basics before discussing why this sustainable, renewable flooring is now more relevant than it has ever been before.
What is linoleum flooring?
Linoleum flooring is a resilient floor cover made from natural ingredients, including cork dust for elasticity, linseed oil for flexibility and wood flour for strength. These substances are combined with resin to hold them together and then backed with jute for stability. Finally, it’s cured and spread out before being cut into tiles or planks, ready to grace our floors.
Invented in 1860 by Frederick Walton, linoleum has a very distinctive look. Unlike vinyl flooring, it has a solid colour and pattern that runs throughout the thickness of the material, adding to its longevity. It has also become a secret weapon for many top interior designers, with its unique properties and timeless charm making it a practical and stylish choice for just about every room.
Why has linoleum not lost its lustre?
The resurgence of linoleum flooring is down to its distinct design aesthetic, durability and eco-friendly nature. Here’s a closer look at why homeowners and businesses in the UK, the US and Europe are turning back to linoleum.
Sustainability
Sustainability is now a primary concern for many home and business owners, and understandably so. Composed of natural materials, lino flooring is biodegradable, produced with low emissions and leads to very little waste. That makes it one of the best flooring choices for anyone who doesn’t want to sacrifice the earth or their budget.
A pattern for every taste
Linoleum flooring used to be known for its abstract patterns, rich colours and marbleised swirls, but now all that has changed. New manufacturing techniques mean linoleum can replicate the look of tile, stone and hardwood, adding to the already vast array of colours, patterns and styles. That means there’s a lino flooring option for just about every taste.
Withstanding wear and tear
Above all else, flooring has to be practicable, and linoleum puts a big tick in that box with its outstanding durability. Even the heaviest foot traffic is no issue for linoleum, and with proper maintenance, there’s no reason why it can’t last 40 years or more. Even if you scratch or nick your linoleum, the pattern and colour are consistent throughout the product, reducing the visual impact of the damage.
Kind to your budget
You’d usually associate this kind of durability with more expensive flooring options, but linoleum is available from around £3 to £10 per square foot, making it extremely cost-effective. Most linoleum floors typically require professional installation at an average cost of around £300 for a medium-sized room.
Is a linoleum floor the right choice for you?
We’re singing the praises of linoleum floors here, but as with every flooring product, it does have its downsides. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons.
The pros
- Highly durable
- Easy to maintain
- Water-resistant and suitable for use in kitchens and bathrooms
- Biodegradable and made with renewable materials
- Affordable
- A wide range of patterns and styles
The cons
- Requires professional installation
- Can fade or discolour in direct sunlight
- Is prone to scratches and scuffs from hard or sharp objects
- Unsealed linoleum needs regular polishing and buffing
Professional linoleum flooring supply and installation
If you want to capitalise on the resurgence of linoleum flooring, we can help you achieve the best possible result. Whether you opt for sheets or tiles, we can supply and install your linoleum to ensure a flawless outcome. Contact our teams throughout London for a free floor fitting consultation and quote.