Retro? Linoleum floors are hip

Today's linoleum floors retain the color and charm of their American predecessors, but they last much longer and are easier to maintain. Quality linoleum flooring can last for 40 years under the heaviest of household traffic. It's affordable and more durable than vinyl. And linoleum is scratchproof and moisture-resistant. If you're a green homeowner who cares about the environment, you can buy linoleum manufactured from recycled and recyclable materials including wood flour, limestone, rosin, linseed oils, calcium carbonate, mineral pigments and cork powder.

Linoleum is easier to clean and maintain than carpeting or vinyl and contains no harmful chemicals to off gas into your environment. Clean with a low-pH cleaner for best results. Colors include bright and traditional marbled patterns or contemporary earth tones. Tiles come in low gloss and finishing coats, as well as in overall patterns. Armstrong linoleum flooring, for example, costs from $2 to $3 per square foot.