How to Repair and Replace Damaged Linoleum Tile
Linoleum tile can easily develop stains, surface defects and curling, but remedying such damage is not necessarily difficult. Even if the defects are irreversible, linoleum tiles are easily enough replaced. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Extra matching tiles Varnish or lacquer Fine steel wool Household cleaner Iron
Instructions
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1
Remove stains that may have developed on the tile. Food and grease spills should be wiped up fairly quickly to prevent staining. If a stain does develop, everyday household cleaners such as bleach, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, rubbing alcohol and even nail polish remover are particularly effective in removing stains.
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2
Repair any scratches or dents found on the tile. Find a scrap piece of the same tile and scrape the surface of it. Mix the powder that results from the scraping with a varnish or lacquer to create a paste. Apply this paste to the area of the tile that needs repair. Wait for the paste to dry and then buff it with fine steel wool. The tile should look as good as new.
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3
Flatten any curled tiles. Linoleum tile has a tendency to curl at the edges. To remedy such a problem, warm the tile with an iron to soften the adhesive underneath. Spread the softened adhesive underneath the curled area, and hold the tile down with weights until the adhesive dries.
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Remove any damaged tiles that cannot be repaired. Again, apply heat from an iron to soften the adhesive underneath the tile. Once the tile can be lifted, scrape away the old adhesive from the floor.
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5
Replace damaged tile with new tile. Fit a scrap piece of tile into the new spot by trimming the edges and matching the pattern as best as you can. Warm the tile and apply new adhesive to the back. Install it and weigh it down until the adhesive dries.
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Tips & Warnings
If the tile you are working with cannot be easily peeled away with the use of heat, chisel it away. Start at the center of the tile and work your way toward the edges. After installation of new tile, keep any scrap tiles for later use. They come in handy for repairs and replacement.
