How to Prepare a Floor for Carpet Tiles

From time to time, people will decide to replace old carpets with new carpeting tiles. Unfortunately, many people do not know the proper procedure to prepare the floor for the new carpet tiles. In reality, this procedure is very simple and will not require more than an hour or two. The most important preparation factor in is to make sure the floor is smooth and clean. The glue or adhesive used to secure the new carpet tiles in place will not correctly bond to a floor surface that has not been cleaned properly.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers
• Utility knife
• Vacuum
• Mop
• Sponge
• Soap
• Chalk
• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Peel off the old carpet with your hands and pliers, if necessary. You may also have to cut out sections with the utility knife.

2. Vacuum all debris and loose dirt off the floor surface.

3. Run chalk lines diagonally from one corner to the other. The lines will cross in the middle, which will indicate the center of the room. Measure this distance from each of the four sides of the room, using a tape measure.

4. Wash the floor with a sponge, using a mild soap solution. It is also recommended to mop the floor so the entire surface is clean enough to lay the tiles.

5. Lay out all the tiles in the desired pattern to preview how they will look. This will assure that they fit properly, and that you will be satisfied with the design.

References

• Bob Vila: How To Prepare A Floor For Carpet Tiles