How to Prepare a Floor for Peel & Stick Tile
Peel and stick vinyl flooring---also known as self-adhesive tile--is an attractive and inexpensive flooring option that can be completed over a weekend as a do-it-yourself project.The key to successful installation of peel and stick flooring is making sure you have the correct surface for application.The application surface is known as the subflooring and the ideal subflooring should be moisture proof and free of previous adhesives, oils, paints, and sealers.While self adhesive vinyl can be installed over wood, vinyl, concrete and laminate flooring, most homeowners choose it as an inexpensive way to cover damaged vinyl or linoleum flooring. The following instructions will explain how to prepare your existing vinyl or linoleum flooring for the installation of self-adhesive tiles. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Floor cleanser/stripper
- Water
- Bucket
- Mop with disposable head
- Face mask
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
- Utility Knife
- Smooth-edge trowel
- One-part embossing leveler
- Medium grit sandpaper
Instructions
-
Instructions
-
1
Examine the existing flooring for any damaged or raised tile. If the floor is in good shape, with little to no damaged tiles, proceed by cleaning the floor with an appropriate liquid cleanser-stripper. Follow the manufacturer's directions to remove any buildup of dirt, wax, oil or other contaminants.
-
2
Remove any damaged or raised tile with the utility knife. Following the manufacturer's instructions, use the smooth-edge trowel to apply the one-part embossing leveler. This will patch any voids left from missing tiles and also smooth over the embossing from the previous flooring to create a smooth and seamless surface for application of your new adhesive tile.
-
-
3
Allow the one-part embossing leveler to dry as directed by the manufacturer---anywhere from two to 24 hours. After the leveler is dry, sand down any rough patches. Sweep and use a damp mop to clean up any dust from the sanding. After allowing the floor to dry completely, you can install your peel and stick vinyl tiles.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Do not install self-adhesive vinyl tiles over badly damaged flooring. If the original vinyl flooring has several damaged tiles and many missing pieces, you will achieve a better result by laying a new plywood substrate.
Do not install self-adhesive vinyl tile over cushioned (or "soft") vinyl sheet flooring or directly over below-grade cement (such as cement basement floors). Below-grade cement floors must be sealed against moisture prior to applying a self-stick vinyl tile.
Always wear the appropriate safety gear and work in a properly ventilated area
when working with potentially caustic chemicals. Wear safety goggles and face mask to avoid inhalation of small particles while sanding.
