Sheet vinyl, vinyl composition tile (VCT) or just about any kitchen flooring is often referred to by the layman as linoleum. That’s because throughout the years linoleum was the staple for kitchen floors.
Linoleum is enjoying renewed popularity as a flooring choice because it is made of natural ingredients, including linseed oil, cork, limestone, wood flour and tree resins. The color in linoleum goes all the way through, making it extremely durable.

Another reason for linoleum’s renaissance, while it normally comes in sheets, it can be hand-cut for intricate patterning and one of a kind artistry. Linoleum is a quiet, warm surface that cushions your feet and requires minimal maintenance although it may scuff or mark if not kept well polished.

Cork flooring can be a viable alternative for any room in the home. It is a natural product, so even if finished in color or left natural, it will show variations in characteristics, tones and shades from tile to tile. Cork flooring is installed much like a hardwood floor in that once installed, a urethane coating is applied. However, cork flooring is much warmer than wood as well as being durable and forgiving.

Cork is actually the bark of a tree commonly known as Cork Oak. Predominantly found in Portugal and Spain, Cork Oak is native to the Mediterranean region. The bark naturally splits every 9 to 15 years and can be safely harvested causing no harm to the tree. The bark re-grows and the cycle continues on for years and years. Some Cork Oak trees have been known to live up to 500 years.

Cork flooring is not only warm to walk on and extremely quiet with natural sound absorbing qualities, it is also naturally hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to mold and mildew.