Kristian Septimius Krogh/istockphoto
DCL
Sometimes we get caught up in all the futuristic, exciting designs using state-of-the-art green technology. Sometimes we forget to simply look back to see that some of the greenest options have already been discovered.
Case in point: linoleum. Linoleum may very well be one of the greenest floors around, and it was first created in 1843, and manufactured widely in the US in 1936. And there are slew of reasons to love it still.
As Find Any Floor explains, the benefits of linoleum are numerable. Here are a few of the most notable benefits of linoleum:
- Cost effective. There is a range of products and pricing, of course, but in general the price of linoleum is comparable to that of high?end vinyl flooring. The cost to the environment, though, is much more modest.
- Durable. Properly maintained linoleum can last for 30 to 40 years. And when it does reach the end of its useful life, linoleum can be disposed of—perhaps even composted—without harm to the environment.
- Antimicrobial. Linseed oil, one of linoleum's main ingredients, is inherently resistant to germs and bacteria. This makes linoleum an especially good choice for kitchen and bathroom floors.
- Easy to maintain. Linoleum requires very little regular care other than sweeping and an occasional damp mop. With solid color throughout its thickness, wear is barely visible.
Source: Find Any Floor
Yes, linoleum is made from all natural materials, too?most often from linseed oil, pressed from flaxseed (for an illuminating look at how linoleum is made, check out Lloyd Alter's Wayback machine post. While vinyl flooring may be considered more 'chic' at the moment, that conception is sure to fade soon?the production of vinyl is horrible for the environment. Plus, linoleum has a cool retro feel that, if tastefully implemented, can set your home apart from the cookie cutter vinyl floored houses of today.
