When it comes to linoleum, the big name in the game is Forbo/ Marmoleum. I’ve also posted about Armstrong’s lineoleum. Recently, though, I found another manufacturer, Johnsonite, whose Harmonium xf linoleum was awarded a Green Good Design Award in 2009. I think this alternative should go on our list, especially since Johnsonite seems to have invented a special top-coat that is apparently easier to clean and maintain — an issue for traditional linoleum. Link: Johnsonite Harmonium Linoleum
Linoleum that is easier to maintain and clean — in 73 colors
Posted by: • December 7, 2010
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I will be checking this out!
Years ago I installed a red Marmoleum kitchen floor. Beautiful, but it took a great amount of work to get it that way.
My friend who owns a floor covering business tells me that Marmoleum has a peculiar odor that some people do not like. Anybody experience this? Walked into a new/model home the other day with it in the utility room and upon opening the front door I smelled something unusual. Just curious.
can you put the three choices on a cost spectrum?
sorry, dcgrl, i tend not to research pricing unless it is right there on the website…
Sara, we have Marmoleum floors. They do give off a slight scent when they are first installed, but it is a much more earthy, organic smell–linseed oil and such. Far more pleasant than vinyl or paint offgassing, and it goes away quickly.
They do require more maintenance than we have really given them. You are supposed to reapply the top coat every year and we are too disorganized. But I love the floors. They feel warm and natural and they are quiet, and they are still beautiful even without proper maintenance.
My boss just installed Marmoleum floors in the restrooms here at work. They are gorgeous, and make the rest of the place look shabby by comparison.
I just installed vintage pale green linoleum with a white stone “fleck” as kitchen countertops and ordered the stainless snap on cap from New York Metal.
Mine is an Armstrong material from the early 60′s, a Habitat find locally in Michigan. I will be looking into the top coat product to keep it in shape, since it is currently flat and without a finish.
has anyone done any side-by-side comparison with the johnsonite with this special coating, and traditional linoleum? it would be great to know if it would be worth the upcharge.