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| Linoleum, cork and bamboo |
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2005/7/25
More and more consumers are sensitive in protecting the environment. For this reason they are deciding to use products which are as less harmful as possible for it.
Statistics are showing that, for the floor, the most used is the cork, followed by linoleum and bamboo..
In the last 5 years, the linoleum had a spectacular come back after being edged in 1960 by vinyl. The advantage of linoleum is that it is made by natural ingredients. If it is decomposed it doesn?t release chemical gases like other synthetic products. Linoleum is made by sawmill, linseed oil, resins and ground limestone pressed on a jute backing.
Another advantage is that, nowadays, it doesn?t need to be waxed like it used to in the old times.
Because linoleum is harder and more durable than vinyl it is harder to be installed, as well. But in time it compresses and becomes even harder; besides, it keeps its bright color for a long period of time.
Both cork and bamboo are alternatives for traditional wood floor. Generally, they are preferred by young people between 25 to 35 years. They are warmer , easier to be maintained and more comfortable; besides, the floor doesn?t need to be perfectly flat in order for them to be assembled.
The cork is made by the outside bark of an oak tree originated in Portugal, Morocco and other Mediterranean countries. If it is harvested without downing trees, it grows back in 5 to 10 years.
The cork is a very hip product because of its look. Until 5 years ago, it didn?t draw attention very much because it was hard to install and it had a curving tendency. The situation changed once 1-4 foot laminated section appeared. Other advantages are its natural cushioning and sound absorbing qualities.
To maintain it well, it is recommended to be coated with polyurethane every year.
The cork is fire, water and mould resistant and it is not a good environment for allergens. However, there are persons that are afraid to use cork because they fear that in contact with water it can cause a lot of damages.
Bamboo is a grass that is growing in China and Burma. It can mature in 5 to 5 years. Bamboo is as hard as maple and 50% more stable than red oak. It is water resistant; for this reason it is recommended to be used as bath floor.
Bamboo is more expensive than classic oak or maple but less expensive than exotic woods (for instance, cherry). |
| Source:http://www.woodbusinessportal.com |
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