How to Replace Bad Bathroom Floors
Water damage and regular wear and tear on a bathroom floor can cause it to look bad. One option for dealing with is problem is to purchase mats and rugs. However, a more permanent option is to fix the flooring instead of trying to cover it up. Replacing bad bathroom floors is a time-consuming project that can be done over the course of a few days, depending on the amount of time you can commit each day to the project. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Remove the old floor. The way you do this is dependent upon the type of flooring. Wood floors must be pried up. Ceramic and tile floors must be chiseled. Linoleum flooring can be ripped up.
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Assess the damage. If the damage to the floor was caused by a water leak, you must fix the water leak before you lay the new flooring.
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Check the stability of the subfloor. If the subfloor must be replaced, now is the time to do it. Simply pry up the boards and lay new boards. You can opt to use cement board instead of wood. Bathrooms are an ideal place for cement board because the board won't warp when it gets wet. Secure the subfloor with nails or screws that go at least 1/4 inch into the support beams.
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Decide on the type of flooring you want in your bathroom. You must consider the purpose of the room. Tile and linoleum are good options because both can withstand water. Wood is suitable, but may warp if it isn't properly protected. Carpet is another option. However, it may mildew and harbor mold spores because of the moisture.
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Lay a moisture barrier. This is available at home improvement centers. Cut it and lay it directly onto the subfloor. Staple it down every 2 to 3 inches.
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Install the flooring of your choice. Grout must be applied if you are laying tile. Wood planks will simply snap together. Linoleum must be glued down. If this is your only bathroom, buy large sheets of plywood to lay a path on top of the new flooring if you are laying tile flooring. This will minimize the chance of the tiles sliding when people have to walk on the floor to use the facilities.
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