Preparing Vinyl Tile for Floors

Vinyl tile expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. It is important to let the tiles rest in the room where they will be installed for at least 24 hours before beginning your project. Failing to do so can lead to problems once the floor is finished.

Preparing Floors for Vinyl Tile

Remove all trim from around the floor. If you intend to reuse it after installing your new flooring, pull any nails through the trim from the back side. This step reduces splitting so you can use the trim again. Your new vinyl tile installation is only as good as the underlying floor. Clean the floor thoroughly. The surface on which you are installing tile must be smooth and free from debris, grease or wax. Uneven floors, bumps or dips can cause blemishes that will show over time.

-Concrete — Vinyl tile can be installed over concrete if the concrete is clean, smooth and dry. Repair any holes or cracks. You can sometimes lower high spots using a coarse-grit abrasive on a belt or disc sander. Any minor bumps can be removed with a cold chisel driven by a baby sledge hammer. Be sure to wear safety glasses.

-Vinyl flooring — Vinyl tile can be laid over old vinyl flooring that is in good condition. If the old floor has a rough texture and/or some dints and dings, smooth on a skim coat of embossing leveler with a straight edge trowel. This will create a smooth surface and will prevent the new tile from eventually taking on the texture of the old floor.
Damaged or loose vinyl flooring should be removed.
Caution: Always wear a respirator when removing old flooring. Be aware that some older flooring materials may contain asbestos. It is recommended that you have older flooring materials tested before removal, and that materials containing asbestos be removed by a professional.

-Floors requiring underlayment — If removal of the old floor is too difficult or impractical and the floor is too damaged to use an embossing leveler, cover it with new layer of plywood underlayment. Unless otherwise directed by code, 1/4" BC plywood makes a good underlayment.