Linoleum has long been used as an affordable, easy-to-care-for, and durable option for flooring in residential and commercial properties for years. But sometimes, no matter how much you may love linoleum, you just need a change. This is where ceramic tiles come in to save the day. Ceramic tiles can quickly turn an outdated room into an area of sophistication with a modern design. To make things even better, you are not required to remove the linoleum before installing the tiles!
Ceramic tiles can be installed over linoleum as long as the linoleum is in good condition. You will need to glue down rips and patch holes in the linoleum before the ceramic tile is installed. Additionally, the entire flooring will need to be cleaned and dried before the tiles can be installed.
As long as the linoleum is in decent condition and you properly prepare the surface beforehand, you can and should install ceramic tiles over it. Doing so can help save you time and money. If you try to remove the linoleum, you face the potential of accidentally damaging the subfloor underneath.
This will end up costing you extra time and money since a damaged subfloor will need fixed or replaced before the new flooring can be installed. With that said, however, if the linoleum is not in good shape, it will need to be removed before installing the ceramic tiles. You want the surface the tiles are installed on to be flat and smooth since a bumpy or uneven surface can cause the tiles to crack and break overtime.
Should You Put Ceramic Tile Over Linoleum?
Even though you can successfully install ceramic tile over linoleum, there are some things to consider and problems to look out for before you begin the process of replacing the floor.
Ceramic tiles should never be installed over linoleum floors that are loose, warped, or uneven as this can quickly damage your new tiles. Additionally, sheet linoleum that was manufactured before 1980 may contain asbestos, which is a cancer-causing substance.
If this is the case, the linoleum should be removed by professionals who know how to handle this dangerous material before the new flooring is installed.
Furthermore, you should check to see how secure the old linoleum floor is to the subfloor. If it is not secure, the ceramic tiles could slip out of place when trying to install them.
You should also check to see if the linoleum is cushioned. Cushioning can become flattened overtime, which will result in markings and dents to show in your new flooring. Because of this, it may be best to remove the old linoleum and its cushioning before laying down the ceramic tiles.
Use our tile floor calculator to find out how much it’ll cost you to put tile over linoleum.
What Tools Do You Need To Put Ceramic Tile Over Linoleum?
Even though installing ceramic tile on linoleum isn’t rocket science, it does require several tools and materials to help ensure you get the job done right.
Copyright protected content owner: ReadyToDIY.com and was initially posted on October 27, 2022.
Installing ceramic tile over linoleum will require an orbital or oscillating sander with sanding pads, utility knife, putty knife, trowel, mortar, spaces, rubber mallet, tile puck, grout float, grout, TSP, water, sponge, rags, and safety protection, such as safety glasses and gloves.
That is just a simple list of some common tools and items typically needed to install ceramic tiles over linoleum. These tools can and will change depending on your specific situation and any issues that may arise during the installation process. With that said, however, the above list is a good starting point for most tile installation jobs.
What Preparations Do You Need To Install Ceramic Tile Over Linoleum?
Properly preparing not only the linoleum but the ceramic tiles as well is a vital part of the installation process that should not be skipped.
Any rips and holes will need to be repaired in the linoleum and then the entire surface will need to be thoroughly cleaned with TSP (Trisodium Phopshate). Once cleaned and dried, rough up the surface of the linoleum with a sander just enough so that the linoleum feels textured.
Once sanded, wipe the linoleum clean once again with TSP. Once the linoleum has been prepared, decide how to position the ceramic tiles by laying them out on the floor. Move the tiles around until you have them in the position and pattern that you desire. The ceramic tiles will also need to be cut to fit the area, such as at corners and outlets.
How To Install Ceramic Tile Over Linoleum
Installing ceramic tiles over linoleum can quickly update the overall look of a room, and can even increase the value of your home. While the entire process can be a bit labor intensive, if you are determined, you can complete the entire project over the weekend.
The first step in installing ceramic tiles over linoleum is to repair and patch any damage to the linoleum. Then use TSP to clean the surface and remove any built-up grease. Once clean, use a sander to lightly sand over the linoleum, which will allow the mortar to better adhere to the linoleum.
Clean the linoleum once more with TSP and allow it to dry before continuing with the installation process. You want to ensure the linoleum is completely free from dirt and dust before you install the tiles.
After the surface is dry, spread the mortar thinly over the linoleum with the trowel. Press the ceramic tile into the mortar and then lightly tap it into place with a rubber mallet. Continue in this manner until all tiles are in place. Allow the mortar to dry for no less than 24 hours.
Use a grout float to apply the grout in between the tiles. Remove the excess grout off the tiles by scraping them with the grout float. Let the grout dry for about 10 minutes and then use a damp sponge to wipe the excess grout off the tiles. It will take at least 24 hours for the grout to dry completely.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on October 27, 2022.
After the grout has completely dried, lightly clean the tiles with mild dish detergent and water.
Related Articles
Can You Put Ceramic Tile Over Hardwood? (How To)
Can You Put Ceramic Tile Over Formica? (How To)
Can You Put Ceramic Tile Over Luan? (How To)
Can You Put Ceramic Tile Over Laminate Flooring? (How To)
ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on October 27, 2022.