How to Lay Self-Stick Linoleum Tiles

Linoleum floor tiles were around long before modern vinyl flooring. Some people still prefer linoleum, which is an all-natural product and tends to have a richer-looking surface than vinyl. It installs in the same way as vinyl flooring, with either adhesive you spread yourself, or as a self-stick tile, with the adhesive already on the back of it. Self-stick is the easier form of linoleum to lay. Start with a solid, clean and dry floor.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Chalk snap line
• Square
• Razor knife

Instructions

1. Measure one edge of the floor and mark the middle. Measure and mark the middle along the opposite edge. Stretch your chalk snap line between the two marks and snap the line.

2. Measure and mark the middle of the two remaining edges of the floor. Stretch the chalk snap line between them, so it intersects the first line at the center of the floor. Lay a square at the intersection and adjust the position of the string, if necessary, so it's exactly 90 degrees off the first line. Snap the second line. The floor should be divided into four square sections, meeting at the center.

3. Pull the paper backing off your first linoleum tile. Set it at one of the four corners of the intersection at the center of the floor, so it's bordered on two adjacent sides by the two lines. Press it completely into place.

4. Pull the paper backing off the second linoleum tile. Set the edge of the tile against the previously laid tile and press it down.

5. Repeat the process to lay more tiles, building out from the middle to the edges of the floor. Use the lines to keep it all straight.

6. Cut the tiles at the perimeter of the floor, by the walls, by running a razor knife alongside the square to score the surface, then snap the piece at the scored line. Lay the partial tiles with the cut sides facing the wall.

References

• This Old House: Tiles Installation