Marmoleum Installation: Costs, Considerations, and Common Mistakes
Marmoleum is a durable, eco-friendly flooring option that's ideal for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. As Forbo-certified installers serving the greater Seattle area and surrounding counties, we've put together this Marmoleum installation guide covering what makes the material unique, key installation considerations, cost factors, 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 installers with experience in other flooring types need proper knowledge and training for a successful Marmoleum installation. The process is similar to installing other resilient sheet products but comes with specific substrate requirements.
Key Considerations for Marmoleum 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, stable substrate is essential to a successful installation.
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 residue can also 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 and 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. Testing the slab's relative humidity and pH level helps prevent future issues, and moisture mitigation systems are available to seal the concrete and maintain your warranty. Consult a professional installer to determine the best solution for your subfloor.
Layout and Seam Location
Marmoleum sheets come in rolls about 6'7" wide, and seams are common in most rooms. Because the material may shrink in length and expand in width when placed in wet adhesive, sheets are typically installed running the short direction. Marmoleum is less flexible than sheet vinyl and can tear or crack if handled improperly, so seam placement should be planned carefully, avoiding high-traffic areas or spots near windows where strong light might highlight the seam.
Seaming Methods
There are two main seaming methods for Marmoleum:
Underscribe or Fit Seam Method: Sheets are fit together precisely on-site, leaving no gap. This is the preferred method and the one recommended by the manufacturer. Standard seams are less visible and stable without needing a sealer. A properly fit seam is superior both mechanically and aesthetically, appearing as little more than a thin pencil line across the floor.
Heat Welding: Used mainly in commercial spaces with mechanical cleaning methods, or in hospitals with strict sanitation requirements. Welded seams are more visible, and the welding rod rarely matches the material perfectly.
Cost Considerations for Marmoleum
When planning your Marmoleum installation, it's important to consider the overall costs involved. Pricing can vary based on the existing subfloor condition, preparation, and additional materials to facilitate the install. In short, the costs depend on the complexity of the project.
Budgeting for Your Project
Create a budget that includes materials, labor, and any additional costs for surface preparation. It’s wise to consult with professionals to get accurate estimates. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses down the line. If you live in the Seattle area consider contacting us for a free all-inclusive estimate.
Long-Term Value
Investing in Marmoleum can offer significant long-term value. Its durability means fewer replacements and repairs over time, and its eco-friendly nature appeals to environmentally conscious homeowners and businesses alike.
Conclusion
Marmoleum can be more challenging to install properly compared to other flooring options, and even experienced installers may run into difficulty. If you're considering a DIY installation, be prepared for a learning curve, and follow the manufacturer's installation instructions closely to protect your warranty. Always verify that your tools are properly calibrated before you begin. For most homeowners and businesses, working with a Forbo Certified Marmoleum installer helps avoid costly mistakes.
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 and is used primarily to create a monolithic surface that prevents water infiltration.
Questions? Contact Us
For more information, visit our website for helpful articles and photos of completed projects, or contact us to learn more or schedule a time for a free estimate.
About us
Linoleum Pros is a Forbo-certified installer offering professional Marmoleum installation services throughout the greater Seattle area and surrounding counties. If you'd like to know more about Marmoleum installation for your home or business, contact us today.
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