Linoleum

Linoleum is a floor covering made from natural materials, including oxidized linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour, and calcium carbonate, all bound together by a drying oil binder and finished with pigments. It is produced in sheets or tiles and used in residential and commercial settings.

Its name comes from Latin linum (flax) and oleum (oil), referencing the flaxseed oil used in its manufacture.

Historically, linoleum was introduced in the 1860s by Frederick Walton in Britain and quickly spread worldwide. It gained popularity for its durability and wide range of colors and patterns. In the mid-20th century vinyl flooring became more common, and linoleum's market share declined, though it has remained in production, with modern versions emphasizing natural content and eco-friendliness.

Manufacture involves heating and combining oxidized linseed oil with fillers such as wood flour, cork dust, and calcium carbonate, mixing with pigments, and then coating into sheets or laying on a backing. The material cures to form a hard, resilient surface. Many modern linoleums are finished with a protective layer or wax to simplify maintenance.

Properties: Linoleum is relatively durable, resistant to wear, and has good dimensional stability. It is naturally more eco-friendly than many vinyl products, because it contains renewable resources. It is somewhat susceptible to moisture and can be damaged by prolonged exposure to water; it is not inherently waterproof. Regular cleaning with a damp mop using neutral cleaners is recommended; older linoleum often required periodic sealing or waxing.