Environmentally friendly Linoleum flooring is made from raw, natural materials. Its primary ingredient is Linseed oil, which comes from the flax plant. Other ingredients include rosin, wood and cork flour, limestone dust and jute. These ingredients are mixed together and rolled onto a backing made of jute (this process is known as calendaring). This linoleum is then cured in an oven for anytime between 14 and 21 days.

Since it is made from organic materials, linoleum flooring is hypoallergenic in nature, which is why it is greatly used in non-allergenic homes, health care facilities, and hospitals. It is also used in buildings that require its flexibility, and in which other materials, such as tile would crack. After installation, Linoleum flooring will emit an odor for some time, similar to the smell of paint. This odor will eventually dissipate.

Some manufacturers of linoleum attach high quality coating to the linoleum after it is made, to improve its resistance to staining. If this layer isn’t bonded onto the linoleum, it must be polished to prevent any stains developing. Linoleum flooring comes in various shapes, sizes, and colors and can reflect the shape of a room. Most linoleum is sold in sheets, although tiled linoleum is also available.