Linoleum created as an inexpensive floor covering

Frederick Walton invented linoleum in Britain in 1860. In search of a cheap floor covering, Walton coated flax cloth with a combination of gum, cork dust, resin, and linseed oil. The word linoleum was formed by an amalgamation of the Latin Linum (‘flax’) and oleum (‘oil’).

“There was a paint pot in the laboratory, and, as usual a skin or surface of dried oil had formed upon it…it occurred to me that…I could use it as a … waterproofing material, similar to india rubber.”  Frederick Walton (on discovering linoleum process)

Easier to Clean

‘Floor Cloth’ was created by applying an oil-based paint to canvas. This technique preceded linoleum. Linoleum became popular as it was springier, longer-lasting, easier to clean, and waxable.

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Evolution of Linoleum

Thomas Armstrong manufactured linoleum in Pittsburgh in 1908 in various colours and designs, including a simulation of wood, flowered chintz and Cubist Art. Armstrong’s most common pattern was linoleum simulating cobblestones. As a medium for art prints, linoleum became popular for a period, either when lithographic stones were unavailable due to war shortages or when a particular effect was desired. It was also used in poster printing.

Original linoleum has been replaced by vinyl, a synthetic polymer that can take impregnated patterns and is more resilient. It resists heavy abrasion and pointed heels since its applied surface nature wears off with repeated use. With the nostalgia trend of the 1980s, vinyl appeared in linoleum motifs that had been added earlier.

Battleship Linoleum Design

In the early 20th century, the U.S. Navy utilized a durable, thick form of linoleum, known as “battleship linoleum,” as a deck covering on battleships and other warships. This material was favored for its resilience and ease of maintenance. (U.S. General Services Administration)

However, following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, concerns arose regarding the flammability of linoleum. As a result, the U.S. Navy removed linoleum deck coverings from most warships to enhance fire safety. (Wikipedia)

Despite its decline in naval applications, battleship linoleum was found to be used in various settings, including offices, stores, hospitals, banks, lodge rooms, and elevators, due to its durability and ease of cleaning. (U.S. General Services Administration)

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing.

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