How to Lay Linoleum Tile

Traffic Master beige state tile.

Linoleum tiles are one of the more inexpensive flooring options on the market. The quality of materials and craftsmanship has come a long way in recent years, and some manufacturers now offer a lifetime warranty on do-it-yourself installations, as long as you follow their guidelines. Laying linoleum tiles is a simple process.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Framing square
• Chalk line
• Tracing paper
• Vinyl adhesive (optional)
• Vinyl adhesive trowel (optional)

Instructions

1. Verify that the existing subfloor meets the installation requirements for the tile you would like to install. If not, modify the subfloor to avoid voiding the product warranty.

2. Find the middle of the width-wise walls and snap a chalk line at the middle points. Repeat for the length-wise walls so there is an intersection in the middle of the room that separates the space into quadrants.

3. Lay the tile out on the floor (with the backing still attached), extending the tile from the center point of the room. Check the layout. If the tile closest to the wall requires less than half of a tile, slide the other tiles towards the opposite wall to balance the tiles out. Position the tile so that all wall-edge tiles require more than half a tile.

4. Treat the subfloor with an adhesive primer. Roll the primer onto the subfloor's surface. Allow the primer to dry according to instructions on the package.

5. Remove the tile backing and press the tile firmly onto the subfloor. Cut the tiles with a sharp utility knife, as needed. To cut around irregular objects, use a heavy sheet of paper as a template, and trace the template onto the tile with a pencil. Use a utility knife to cut the tile to the desired shape.

References

• Traffic Master Original Installation Instructions and Maintenance Guide

Resources

• Traffic Master Original Solid Vinyl Tile