Linoleum Flooring

Englishman Frederick Walton invented linoleum in 1860 and patented his formula in 1863; in fact, linoleum makers use the same formula today.

Made from a combination of solidified linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, ground limestone, tree resins, and pigments, linoleum has a fabric backing, making it entirely organic and keeping in line with architecture's recent push for sustainable design.

Produced mainly in sheets and tiles in an expansive range of colors and finishes, linoleum is laid with an adhesive. Linoleum flooring also boasts an extremely sanitary, water-resistant surface perfect for countertops, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and, of course, kitchens.

Because linoleum is porous, many linoleums are being produced with strong sealer coats to safeguard against grime and stains. You also can protect your linoleum flooring with a coat of acrylic sealer applied twice in the floor's first year and once a year thereafter.