Green Forbo marmoleum Walton in Rosemary Green linoleum fitted to a plyboard floor in Greenwich SE20 London

On the leafy border where the historic charm of Greenwich meets the open spaces of Blackheath, we recently undertook a flooring renovation that perfectly balanced modern sustainability with timeless style. The client’s goal was clear: they wanted a floor that felt organic, durable, and sophisticated.

After exploring various options, the choice was made to install Forbo Marmoleum Walton in Rosemary Green (3355). Marmoleum is a fantastic choice for residential spaces in South East London; it is made from 97% natural raw materials, making it one of the most eco-friendly flooring solutions on the market. We were able to source this specific sheet at a fantastic price via Fenston Carter, allowing us to pass that value directly onto the client.

Step 1: Subfloor Preparation and Plyboarding

In any high-end flooring project, the finish is only as good as the foundation. We began by preparing the subfloor to ensure a perfectly level surface.

We cut and fitted new pSp101 plyboard. This specific grade of plywood is engineered for the flooring industry, providing a smooth, uniform surface that prevents any imperfections from “telegraphing” through the Marmoleum sheet. To ensure maximum stability and efficiency, we secured the boards using coil nails. This method provides a high-density fixing pattern that keeps the subfloor rock-solid, preventing any future movement or squeaking.

Step 2: Priming and the December Screed Challenge

Once the ply was secured, we moved into the preparation phase. We applied a high-quality primer to the new plywood to manage suction and ensure a perfect bond with the smoothing compound.

However, this project took place in December, and the London winter brought some biting cold. While we usually allow 24 to 48 hours for the screed to dry, the plummeting temperatures meant we had to exercise professional patience.

Note from the Field: Rushing a screed in cold weather is a recipe for failure. Moisture trapped under the Marmoleum can lead to bubbling or adhesive failure. We communicated clearly with the client that we would wait the extra few days required to ensure the subfloor was bone-dry and ready for the final layer.

Step 3: The Art of Templating and Fitting

Marmoleum Walton is a “Solid” range, meaning it has a smooth, minimalist texture that looks incredible but requires a high level of skill to install. Unlike patterned floors that can hide minor errors, the Rosemary Green finish is unforgiving to poor craftsmanship.

We meticulously templated the area, ensuring that the cuts around the skirting and door frames were precise. Because Marmoleum comes in rolls, the goal is always to minimize seams and ensure that where seams do exist, they are virtually invisible. We applied a specialized adhesive and laid the Rosemary Green sheet, rolling it carefully to remove any air pockets and ensure a 100% bond.

The Result: A “Nearly Seamless” Masterpiece

The result was nothing short of stunning. The Rosemary Green is a deep, muted tone that brings the “outside in,” echoing the greenery of nearby Greenwich Park. The client was absolutely ecstatic with the transformation.

One of the highlights of the project was the quality of the joins. Despite the large floor area, the seams were so tight they were almost invisible to the naked eye. This level of finish is exactly why we take the extra time on the prep work and wait for the perfect drying conditions.

Project Overview Table

Conclusion

This SE10 project was a testament to the importance of using the right materials and the right techniques. From the efficiency of the coil-nailing to the patience required for the December screed, every step was taken to ensure a long-lasting, beautiful floor. The client now has a sustainable, designer floor that will stand the test of time, and the Rosemary Green color has truly breathed new life into the property.

And of course, you know where to come to get your lino or marmoleum fitted in London.