Marmoleum, installation tips and cost considerations

Marmoleum is a durable, eco-friendly flooring option that’s ideal for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. In this post, we’ll cover what makes Marmoleum unique, key factors to consider before installation, cost considerations, and tips for a successful project.

Why We Like Marmoleum

Marmoleum, also known as linoleum, is made from natural, renewable materials. It’s extremely durable and resistant to moisture. Unlike vinyl, the color and pattern run through at least 80% of the material’s thickness, making it long-lasting for both residential and commercial spaces. When installed correctly, Marmoleum will not shrink, curl, or lose adhesion, and it stands up to years of wear.

What Makes Marmoleum Different?

Because Marmoleum is made from natural materials, it has unique properties that require special attention during installation. Even if you have experience with other flooring types, proper knowledge and training are essential for a successful installation. The installation process is similar to other resilient sheet products but has specific substrate requirements.

Key Considerations for Installation

Surface Preparation

Marmoleum’s smooth surface is easy to clean, but it can reveal any imperfections in the subsurface. Even minor flaws may show through, especially when light reflects across the floor. Ensuring a smooth and stable substrate is essential.

Suitable Substrates

Do not install Marmoleum over existing flooring. Any movement or flexing beneath the surface can cause the material to fail over time. Softer materials like vinyl can compress under load and will appear as obvious defects on the surface. Existing adhesive residues can interfere with the bond strength of the Marmoleum adhesive and may need to be removed.

Installing Over Wood

For raised foundations, you may need to remove the existing subfloor or plywood. If there are no height or tripping concerns, install a minimum of ¼” underlayment-grade plywood over the existing floor. Avoid materials like CDX, OSB, MDF, and Luan. Existing plywood must be structurally sound, free of adhesive residue, and paint.

Installing Over Concrete

Concrete is an ideal base for Marmoleum. If the surface is flat, only minor patching or smoothing is needed. For very uneven or cracked concrete, self-leveling can address several issues at once. Test the slab’s relative humidity and PH level to prevent future issues. Moisture mitigation systems are available seal the concrete and maintain the warranty. Consult a professional to determine the best solution.

Layout and Seam Location

Marmoleum sheets come in rolls about 6’-7” wide, so seams are common in most rooms. The material may shrink in length and expand in width when placed in wet adhesive, so sheets are typically installed running the short direction. Marmoleum is less flexible than sheet vinyl and can tear or crack if handled improperly. Plan seam locations carefully, if possible avoid high-traffic areas, or near windows with strong light that may highlight seams.

There are two main seaming methods:

• Underscribe Method: The sheets are fitted together precisely on-site, leaving no gap. This is the preferred method and recommended by the manufacturer. Standard seams are less visible and are stable without the need for a sealer. A properly fitted seam is superior both mechanically and aesthetically, appearing as a thin pencil line across the floor.

• Heat Welding: Used mainly in commercial spaces that utilize mechanical cleaning methods, or hospitals with sanitation requirements. Welded seams are more visible, and the welding rod rarely matches the material perfectly.

Conclusion

Marmoleum can be a challenging material to install properly compared to other flooring options; even experienced installers may find it difficult. If you plan to install Marmoleum yourself, be prepared to make some mistakes. Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions closely to uphold the warranty, and always verify that your tools are properly calibrated before you begin.

Pro Tip

Be wary if an installer insists on heat-welding Marmoleum in a residential space. Contrary to what you may read online, heat welding Marmoleum does not fuse the material together. It’s used primarily to create a monolithic surface preventing water infiltration.  

Questions? Contact Us

For more information, visit our website for helpful articles and photos of completed projects. Contact us to learn more or schedule a time for a free estimate.

About Us

Interior Floor Designs offers professional floor installation services in the greater Seattle area, including King, Snohomish, and Skagit counties. Our team brings over 50 years of installation expertise and is ready to manage your project, from start to finish.