We can do custom patterns, and strip in vinyl or copper trim. It's very versatile. Color is another plus. Armstrong offers 78 shades among its three lines, and Forbo has 30, plus custom borders. Finally, linoleum has natural antibacterial properties.
Hospitals appreciate that, as do parents of toddlers busy tasting whatever drops on the floor.
Linoleum's downside is that if you want it to shine, you have to wax it. And Knapp says her floor's subtle pattern hides dirt and that maintenance hasn't been a burden. Manufacturers caution that buyers may notice an odor in the first few weeks, as the new floor cures. Weinstein says she found the odor noticeable but not unpleasant. It smelled good to me, like wood or plants.