A SOLID FUTURE FOR LINOLEUM


Advances in manufacturing processes coupled with a wealth of modern colours


and designs could soon see linoleum step out of vinyl’s shadow, Janet Lowe, Head of Marketing UK and Ireland, from Forbo explains.


Durable, easy to clean and with natural anti-microbial protection that inhibits the growth of Norovirus, Clostridium Difficile and MRSA, it’s easy to see why linoleum has proven so popular for hospitals, doctor’s surgeries and other healthcare buildings. Yet due, in part, to perceptions of its aesthetic value, linoleum has often been passed over in favour of other types of resilient floorcovering – meaning commercial clients are missing out on the variety of benefits it affords them.


For example, with organisations such as the International Well Building Institute continuing to push for healthier indoor environments, protecting the wellbeing of a building’s occupants is a mounting concern. In addition to the bacterial hygiene properties already highlighted, linoleum can play a significant role in reducing allergens – indeed Forbo’s Marmoleum has been awarded the prestigious ‘Seal of Approval’ from Allergy UK.


From a longevity and maintenance perspective, linoleum is ideal for general circulation zones such as receptions, corridors and waiting areas. High-quality linoleum products offer effective resistance to stains and chemicals, resulting in reduced cleaning and maintenance requirements – all of which are perfect for high-traffic environments. Forbo’s Marmoleum, for example, is coated with Topshield2, a double layer water-based finish that can readily stand up to the heaviest of footfall, is resistant to hand disinfectants and has excellent stain resistance.


What’s more, the new generation of linoleum floorcoverings are a far cry from the more traditional designs, with a number of attractive and


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contemporary finishes now allowing installers to create distinctive and modern spaces that are ideally suited to offices, retail, leisure and hospitality environments.


Sleek visuals and raw tactility, achieved through the use of wood, glass and metal, are an enduring trend in these sorts of commercial properties and flooring contractors are increasingly being asked to recommend floorcoverings that reflect this aesthetic. It’s worth keeping an eye out for linoleum products that introduce texture to the design, such as Forbo’s Marmoleum Slate, part of its new Marmoleum Solid collection. With a richly embossed surface, this floorcovering offers the classic stone look, while retaining the warmth and purity of linoleum.


Sustainability is also high on the agenda for many commercial clients, who are often actively aiming to reduce the environmental impact of their buildings – and linoleum can deliver on this front as well. Composed of natural raw materials, such as linseed oil and wood flour, linoleum is one of the most sustainable flooring choices available. In fact, Marmoleum is made from 97% natural materials – 72% of which are rapidly renewable and will grow back within 10 years. It also contains 43% recycled material, which reduces the need for virgin raw materials.


Taking this one step further, Marmoleum Cocoa introduces yet another natural ingredient: upcycled cocoa shells from a European chocolate producer. Reflecting the trend for tactility in the flooring environment, this adds a rich organic scattering that offers a completely new and highly touchable dimension to linoleum.


Backed by such an array of benefits, linoleum’s enduring popularity is certainly well deserved and the latest colour and design developments only add to its appeal. With no hiding place for dirt or allergens, the combination of sustainability and bacteriostatic properties makes linoleum an ideal solution for healthier indoor environments – something Forbo takes seriously as part of its ‘Committed to the Health of One’ programme. Containing extremely low volatile organic compounds, Marmoleum contributes to better indoor air quality and has a high light reflectance value, which helps to create positive environments in which to work, learn, live and play.


www.forbo.co.uk/marmoleumsolid www.tomorrowscontractfloors.com


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