Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring was invented in 1860 by Englishman Frederick Walton. In 1864, he formed a manufacturing company, and by 1869 the factory was exporting to Europe and the United States.

Linoleum was first manufactured in the United States in 1874 by Joseph Wild, in a town called Linoleumville, on the western shore of Staten Island, New York.

In 1887, Sir Michael Nairn from Scotland established the American Nairn Linoleum Co., later the Congoleum Nairn Co., in Kearny, New Jersey - now the Congoleum Corporation of America.

Durable and Good Value

Because of it's durability and design options, it was a very popular choice for kitchens throughout the 20th century. Linoleum is still considered an excellent, inexpensive material for high use areas. When compared to vinyl or cork, linoleum has been proven to be the most sustainable.

At one time, linoleum was largely replaced by vinyl flooring because its colors tended to face over time and controlling color consistency was difficult. Now, linoleum products retain their bright colors longer due to improved technologies, contributing to a resurgence in popularity.

It's Very "Green"

If you're looking to go green, go with linoleum. A 1993 study compared linoleum, vinyl, and wool and synthetic carpets. Linoleum is superior when comparing environmental effects throughout the life cycle of these products.

According to the study, "All of the components used to produce linoleum, including its backing, are natural and abundant resources." When incinerated, linoleum provides a source of energy without producing toxic emissions of its own (unlike vinyl or synthetics).

The service life of linoleum flooring is 30 to 40 years. It is available in a wide variety of colors and many patterns. The cost is approximately $4 to $7 per square foot, installed. Only vinyl and wood laminate flooring are comparable.

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