How to Lay Linoleum on Plywood Floor

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Things You'll Need

  • Linoleum sheet(s)

  • Brush or roller

  • Moisture barrier

  • Screwdriver

  • Vacuum/broom

  • Measuring tape

  • Utility knife

  • Masking tape

  • Linoleum adhesive

Plywood is one type of floor onto which you can install linoleum. The type of plywood on the floor, however, is important. You need Type 1 luan plywood or underlayment-grade plywood to ensure the linoleum won't have soft spots or bubbles from adhesive problems. A smooth, even surface that will accept the adhesive is critical. This procedure can vary depending on the exact room and whether or not you're installing sheet or locking linoleum.

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Preparation

Step 1

Apply a paint-on style moisture barrier to the floor if the floor has low-grade luan plywood or a similar lesser quality plywood. You can also lay plastic sheeting, 4 to 6 mm thick, on the floor.

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Step 2

Store the linoleum in the room you'll install it in for a day or two prior to installation. This allows the linoleum to get used to the average room temperature.

Step 3

Disconnect the hinges for all of the doors using a screwdriver, and remove the doors.

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Step 4

Vacuum and/or sweep the entire floor.

Step 5

Measure the dimensions of the floor and add three inches to your measurements.

Installation

Step 1

Lay and spread the linoleum across the entire floor -- this might take at least two people -- and make sure it covers the entire surface. The linoleum sheet(s) should curl up against the wall due to cutting it larger than needed.

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Step 2

Cut and trim off the excess linoleum using a utility knife until the linoleum is flush against the molding between the floor and walls.

Step 3

Pull back half of the linoleum and tape it down so it stays folded over itself like one big loop.

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Step 4

Spread and apply the adhesive to the uncovered plywood subfloor. Check all manufacturer's instructions for the adhesive's application.

Step 5

Unroll and lay the linoleum back onto the covered floor and apply pressure to the floor from the center out to paste it down. This may require a 100 lb. roller on some types.

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Step 6

Roll up the linoleum, apply the adhesive and paste down the linoleum for the other half.

Step 7

Re-install the doors if needed.

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