Many years ago my folks discovered a “new” kind of flooring. Cork! They had it installed in their home and absolutely love it. It looks like hardwood but is made out of cork and the best part is, it stays warmer on your feet in the wintertime. Below is an article about another flooring option that you might be interested in.
“Marmoleum” is linoleum made by the Forbo company. Like all true linoleum, Marmoleum is made from natural, sustainable materials such as linseed oil, cork, resin, limestone, and natural pigments. Contrary to what some people think the name implies, Marmoleum contains no marble.
Linoleum itself is not a new idea. Victorian homes featured linoleum, and it was a popular flooring choice in the first half of the 20th century. It fell out of favor in the 1960s, when man-made vinyl flooring made its debut. As more people become eco-conscious, however, linoleum is making a comeback. Marmoleum is part of that rising demand for sustainable building materials.
Marmoleum is indeed a multi-purpose flooring option. (It can be used on countertops and walls, too.) Because it is waterproof, it can stand up to kitchen and bathroom use. Its non-toxic nature makes it a safe option for children’s play rooms or bedrooms.
Marmoleum is a healthful option for any room for those who suffer from chemical allergies or who are concerned about the health effects of “out gassing” from artificial, plastic or vinyl flooring. Here are some of the features of Marmoleum:
* A wide variety of colors, borders and patterns allow customers to design a look that fits their style. Colors range from bold and wild to earthy and pastel.
* In addition to the more typical glue and adhesive mounting option, Marmoleum is also available in “click” tiles that require no adhesive.
* Durability is another mark of Marmoleum. It has been known to last 30 years, even in high-traffic areas. Its durability is enhanced during the first years of its use, as it “cures” and hardens even more upon exposure to the air. And when it does finally wear out, it can be recycled.
* Maintenance is easy; a broom and mop are all that are required to keep it clean. If it gets scratched or pitted (which is rare), the blemish will hardly be noticeable due to the fact that the pigment penetrates the entire material. The color, in other words, is not just on the surface.
Probably the most significant feature of Marmoleum, though, is the variety of design that is available. The “weld rods” that are used in the installation allow for all kinds of interesting designs and patterns, from vines to footprints. You can even design a pattern that looks like a throw rug or hall runner! As mentioned above, the number of colors available and the potential combinations are enormous.
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