Maintenance for Marmoleum

[mwelke]

Great post here. I also want to replace my kitchen, hallway bath floor and would not put in tile due to my husband's bad hip (his request no tile) SOOOO... have looked at commercial vinyl tile but am afraid the seams won't hold. So glad to see the professionalism of those who like Marmoleum. My question is maintence. I have read on other posts either very little to occasionally sealing. As we are all getting older what is necessary for residential use? Do I have to get on my aging knees (lol) to seal every few months? Or can I get away with using vinegar and water (my preference) for most cleaning duties. Thanks

[Barry Carlton]

No hands and knees......
Marmoleum recommends Ph neutral cleaner and finishes. They make (or have Johnson & Johnson make it for them). Ph neutral cleaners an finishes are usually available at Home Depot, Costco, and janitorial supply houses. They are usually cheaper through these sources.
The cleaners are mop and rinse. The finishes are usually a minimum of 3 thin coats, and only needs to be redone based on your traffic and aesthetic wants.

[mwelke]

Hmmm. Sounds good. So let me get this straight. The Marmoleum goes in. Then I put in 3 light coats ( is it a verethane type product?) and maintain as needed? Is the sealer necessary to prevent staining? Would a darker floor be recommended over a light one in the kitchen. Does it come in 6Ft. widths or 12 ft?

[Barry Carlton]

Have it installed. In a residence, wait for a couple of days before finishing (as opposed to the 7+ days for commercial). Vacuum, clean with the cleaner, rinse, let dry, follow the directions for application of the brand of finish you purchase. Thinner coats are best. A thicker coat leaves a cloudy haze that is difficult to remove without stripping. Maintenance after that is rather easy usually light cleaning with the cleaner and a light rinse. But again this depends on your traffic and visual wants.

Marmoleum and other real linoleums comes 2 meters wide. That is 6 feet 7 inches before trimming for seaming.