There are at least three that offer the “give” or bounce that resilient flooring is known for, but are a little out of the mainstream in look and/or feel. One of these specialty products may offer the perfect note for your home’s look. See if one of them sings to you.
Linoleum, is made just as it was from the late 1800s through the 1960s, composed of linseed oil, wood flour or cork dust over canvas. It was resilient and pretty environmentally friendly then — and it’s even greener today. The color goes all the way through the sheets and it lasts forever. However, it has to be waxed to keep it looking good. (Vinyl floors are “no wax.”)
Linoleum has made a solid reappearance in the marketplace as a flooring choice for those who are environmentally conscientious. Because linoleum normally comes in sheets, it can be hand-cut to create unique color and shape patterns. It’s like painting your floors! Be aware that like sheet vinyl, linoleum in an unforgiving product and should be installed by a professional.
If linoleum has a drawback, however, it’s that the surface isn’t as resistant to dirt and grit as vinyl. You will want to use walk-off mats or rugs in entryways to protect it. Linoleum should be swept clean, washed with water and mild detergent, but not left wet. And did we mention that you’ll need to keep it waxed? If it’s look of linoleum you want without the waxing, vinyl flooring comes in linoleum colors and textures.