[GBlist] Linoleum Crisis

["Doug Hardaway" <Doug_Hardaway@cpcc.cc.nc.us>]

Greetings:  I am an architect representing a community college that completed construction of a 3 story 116,000 SF classroom facility in Fall 1998.  Forbo linoleum (Marmoleum tile) was installed in the main circulation areas on all three levels in July and August 1998, about 6 to 8 months after the slabs were poured.  In late 1998 we noticed that some of the tiles were curling up on the edges, creating an unsightly tripping hazard.  After some analysis of the concrete floor, adhesive, and tile, the manufacturer and installer could not determine the cause, but they did agree to replace the problem areas in August 1999.  Additional areas were replaced in March 2000.  Today there are about 110 problem areas with most of them on the middle floor.       This web site is an incredible resource!  I have already corresponded with John Straube and Sarah Holland via this site and they have been a tremendous help.  Likewise, I think I am aware of the myriad of issues that could be contributing to this continuous problem, and we are looking into those issues.    The purpose of this plea is to learn if anyone else is experiencing similar problems with linoleum tiles.  If so, please contact me as soon as possible.  Thank you for your help.      Doug Hardaway AIA


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