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Install Vinyl Tiles
Can Vinyl Tiles be Installed over
Linoleum Flooring?
By Mark J. Donovan
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Question: Mark, I am in the
process of getting ready to install vinyl tiles on my kitchen floor and have a
question. The floor is currently covered in Linoleum. My question is can I
install vinyl tiles directly over the Linoleum floor or should I remove the
Linoleum first? N.D.
Answer: N.D. Vinyl tiles should be installed on a well prepared surface
for maximum life. Installing vinyl tiles over Linoleum can be done, however I do
not recommend it. In order to install vinyl tiles over a Linoleum floor, the
Linoleum needs to be in perfect condition, e.g. no curling, cuts, ridges or
bumps.
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It is my personal opinion that if the
Linoleum flooring is in such good shape there is little reason to install vinyl
tiles over it, except maybe for aesthetics. In most cases, if there is a desire
to cover the existing Linoleum floor with vinyl tiles or some other flooring
product, chances are the Linoleum is in rough shape. In addition, if the
Linoleum flooring has a deep pattern, the pattern could transmit through to the
installed vinyl tile surface and make the newly finished floor unsightly.
Many diy homeowners elect to install vinyl tiles as they are easy to install.
Installing vinyl tiles can be as simple as peel and stick, however with any good
flooring product it is important that the subfloor be first properly prepared.
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For best results for installing vinyl
tiles, either remove the Linoleum and install ¼ inch thick plywood underlayment
over the subfloor, or install the ¼ inch plywood underlayment directly over the
Linoleum. If the Linoleum was installed prior to 1979 you should have it checked
for asbestos. If there is asbestos in it, then you will either need to hire a
licensed asbestos abatement contractor to remove it, or you can leave it in
place and cover it with the plywood underlayment. You may also want to check
with your local building inspector if indeed the Linoleum has asbestos in it.
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Fasten the plywood to the subfloor
using ring nails or drywall screws. Make sure the nails or drywall screws are
slightly dimpled or countersunk into the plywood to prevent damaging the vinyl
tiles. It is also wise to have the nails or screws fasten into the floor joists.
When installing the plywood
underlayment make sure to stagger the seams. After installing the plywood
underlayment apply self leveling compound over the seams using a drywall knife
or wide putty knife.
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Finally sand the seams with a coarse
grit sandpaper to prevent the seams from transmitting through to the installed vinyl tile
surface.
To conclude, installing vinyl tiles is an easy DIY homeowner project, however it
is important to take the time upfront and prepare the subfloor properly. By
taking the time upfront to prepare the subfloor, you can improve your chances of
achieving a professional vinyl tile installation and have a floor that holds up
for years to come.
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