Linoleum is a very popular floor covering in American homes. Traditional linoleum is biodegradable and non toxic, making linoleum flooring a favorite among the eco-conscious or families with young children. Lets take a look at the pros and cons of linoleum and see if it could be the right type of flooring for you.
The word linoleum is sometimes used to describe other types of sheet flooring, such as PVC sheet vinyl flooring. This can be very confusing for consumers. A good rule to remember is that linoleum will never contain anything that is not organic. Real linoleum is made from ground limestone, color pigments, tree resin, cork dust, linseed oil and cork dust. It is completely free of chemicals and unnatural dyes.
Maintaining a linoleum floor takes a little bit more work than other types of floor covering. An improperly maintained linoleum floor will show it’s age, turning yellowish and dingy. Linoleum can be swept or vacuumed, but to really get it clean, it will require the use of some elbow grease. It is never wise to mop linoleum floors, but they can be cleaned with a soft brush, soap, and water. If you must mop make sure to wring the mop out completely before using it on the floor. Never leave standing water on a linoleum floor.
Linoleum is a very durable type of floor covering and can last up to 40 years. Linoleum will not fade like other flooring types because the dye is infused throughout the flooring. You can find linoleum in hundreds of colors and designs to match the decor of your home. A quality flooring store should have many samples to choose from.
While it is possible to install your own linoleum floor, it is advisable to request advice from a flooring installation specialist. A qualified professional will be able to assist you in your linoleum purchase, and make sure that there are no lumps or bumps in the existing subfloor that could cause the flooring to wear unevenly or even tear. They will also test the floor for moisture to make sure that linoleum will set well.
If you are planning to list your home for sale, linoleum flooring could significantly increase the value of your home. Real estate experts say that linoleum floors are in high demand and home buyers are willing to pay much more for a home with linoleum flooring. Installing a new linoleum floor could be one of the best home investments you will ever make.
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