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Marmoleum vs. Linoleum: What's the Real Story?

     
Question:

Jon asks: is there any difference between Marmoleum which costs $6-7 psf and the Armstrong brand of linoleum which goes for as little as $4 psf?

Answer:
Advice provided by: David M. Pratt, P.E., CEM, LEED AP, MWH
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Hi Jon,

Thanks for your question regarding the difference between Marmoleum and other types of linoleum flooring products.

In general, Marmoleum is a brand name of linoleum flooring, just like Armstrong. According to Wikipedia, linoleum itself is a fairly sustainable product for flooring made from “renewable materials solidified linseed oil (linoxyn), pine rosin, ground cork dust, wood flour, and mineral fillers such as calcium carbonate.”

The Armstrong brand of linoleum claims to be able to assist with achieving certain LEED credits, including MR 6 (Rapidly Renewable Resources), MR 4 (10% & 20% post-consumer + pre-consumer recycled content ), and Compliant with IEQ 4.3 (Low-emitting materials – flooring systems).

Marmoleum is made in Pennsylvania for the British firm Forbo-Nairn, and is SMaRT certified as a sustainable product. Products that are SMaRT certified are able to earn an additional LEED point for innovation in design according to a USGBC Credit Interpretation Ruling from July 2007. You can find additional information about SMaRT certified products here.

Marmoleum will also likely help achieve the LEED credits that the Armstrong brand of linoleum claims to be able to achieve. According to Greenbuildingsupply.com, “Marmoleum is made with natural ingredients without any harmful VOC's or other toxic chemicals. The sheet goods are installed with solvent free adhesives and Marmoleum Click is installed without any adhesive. Marmoleum is also first floor covering to receive the Asthma & Allergy Friendly™ certification.”

So both products will help you achieve numerous LEED credits. For the extra few dollars, Marmoleum will help you earn one extra LEED ID credit, and seems to have a few more bells and whistles when it comes to sustainable certifications. But in the end, both products are good choices for commercial or residential flooring.

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Expert Advice and Comments

Can you show some pictures of

Tue, 10/05/2010 - 07:06 — Wood laminate floor (not verified)

Can you show some pictures of the vinyl flooring?

Yes, David is right,

Mon, 07/25/2011 - 07:39 — All Floors Inc. (not verified)

Yes, David is right, Marmoleum is just a newer version of linoleum. Marmoleum floors is the new floor of choice for people interested in green building materials. It is sustainable, durable and easy to clean. It looks beautiful for years in areas with heavy traffic. Whether you are building a new home or contemplating a remodel of your old one, marmoleum flooring may be just the floor covering that you are looking for. With so many colors available, and so many possible patterns and borders you can create a unique, custom look that will last for generations.

rpfjr's picture

Marmoleum and Cork

Mon, 07/25/2011 - 16:34 — rpfjr

Another option for eco-friendly flooring is cork. Here's an expert review on cork flooring and how it can be used in LEED projects.

Rob is the founder of Green-Buildings.com.

Marmoleum

Tue, 01/24/2012 - 15:09 — Helen (not verified)

How can I care about marmoleum in my home?
Could I make it glossy?
Is it become overdry with time and how can I care of my floor to prevent that?

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