How to Replace a Vinyl Tile Kitchen Floor

If you're sick of looking at that old vinyl tile kitchen floor or it's damaged beyond repair, you'll be surprised how quickly you can replace the tiles for a fresh new look. Today's new tile styles can upgrade your kitchen in a day, without expensive contractor costs.

Things You'll Need

• Flat head screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Chalk line
• New vinyl tile
• (optional new subfloor)

Instructions

1. Remove all furniture and sweep the floor throughly. While it may seem odd to sweep a floor your going to replace, remember that you're going to be kneeling on it and even a tiny pebble can be painful to your knees. If your floor has corner round around the baseboard carefully remove it with a flat head screwdriver, numbering each piece as you go for easy replacement later.

2. Pop the old tile off using a putty knife, and determine whether you need to replace the subfloor or not. Generally, if the existing floor is solid and undamaged, you can clean it and install your new vinyl tile on the same wood. If there is water damage or uneven spots, recover the floor with 1/4 inch plywood before installing the new tile.

3. Determine the center of the floor by measuring the width and dividing by two. Mark this spot with a pencil line, then do the same for the length. This cross in the middle is the center of your floor, and the starting spot for your tile laying.

4. Divide both sides of the width by two, and do the same for the length. Using a chalkline, carefully mark your floor in both directions, creating a grid pattern on the entire floor.

5. Spread your glue according to manufacturer's directions, or peel the backing off your first tile. Carefully place the tile in one corner of the center room cross, making sure the edges meet the lines exactly. Press down firmly. Continue with the remaining three center tiles, then spread out from there. Use the chalkline grid to check the straightness of your tiles as you reach each line.

6. Cut the edge tiles to fit, and install them around the perimeter of the room. If there is a pattern to your tile, remember match it as you install the edge pieces.

7. Replace the corner round, and your new floor is ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Walk on each tile after your job is finished to ensure good adhesion of the entire floor.

• Clean up as you work, especially if you're using peel and stick tiles. The backing paper is a slip hazard if left on the floor.