Sheet vinyl flooring has become very popular because it’s so durable and easy to maintain. In most cases, installing vinyl flooring is fairly easy and uncomplicated. But home renovations aren’t always straightforward, and sometimes removing old flooring to replace it with vinyl flooring isn’t as simple.
Sheet vinyl flooring can be placed over linoleum without the need to rip out the old and existing flooring. This can actually save you money and time, while the linoleum also offers the vinyl a smooth surface to be placed on.
Vinyl flooring, in general, is strong and able to endure wear and tear. Placing it in areas with lots of traffic won’t be a problem, and you won’t even need to get rid of the flooring if it’s linoleum. In fact, many renovations see sheet vinyl flooring being put on top of linoleum and it doesn’t cause any difficulties or problems.
Removing old linoleum flooring can be an arduous and difficult process, and you could even end up with backing and glue stuck to your floor. In the worst-case scenario, the removal process could even damage any wooden subflooring. It is for this reason that builders and professionals in the construction industry would rather keep the old linoleum flooring and install the sheet vinyl flooring on top.
Should You Put Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Linoleum?
It’s safe and possible to put sheet vinyl flooring over linoleum flooring, but many homeowners may ask themselves if they should do it just because it can be done. It’s not unreasonable to wonder—any project you work on should be done with the utmost care.
Placing sheet vinyl flooring over linoleum is a good idea because it’s much easier than completely removing all the old flooring. It also avoids possible problems with removing the previous flooring causing damage or more work.
However, if the linoleum flooring is in bad condition after years of neglect or wear and tear, it might be better to remove it after all. If the existing linoleum flooring is torn or ripped, lifts up, or has suffered moisture damage, it should be removed before the sheet vinyl flooring is installed.
Keep in mind that placing sheet vinyl flooring on top of existing flooring can cause a few issues like making floor transitions hazardous. This will depend on how thick the new flooring is. Other difficulties can include doors not opening as smoothly, heaters and baseboards not fitting properly, and appliances no longer aligning with the countertops.
What Tools Do You Need to Put Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Linoleum?
A successful project depends on the right tools to ensure everything is done without difficulties or discomfort. Placing sheet vinyl flooring is no exception, and homeowners should ensure they have all the tools they require ready before the project starts.
Installing sheet vinyl flooring over linoleum calls for several important tools to make the process easy and safe. This includes basics like measuring tape, a pry bar, a tape measure, a trowel, a floor roller, a utility knife, etc.
Here’s a brief look at the various tools necessary to put sheet vinyl flooring on top of linoleum, and why they’re necessary:
White Vinegar
White vinegar will help clean wax buildup off the linoleum flooring.
Bucket and Mop
You’ll use a bucket of warm water and a mop to clean the existing floor before placing the new flooring.
Cream of Tartar
This ingredient can also help clean up wax buildup if the vinegar alone doesn’t cut it.
Tape Measure
You will need to measure your floor space so you are certain you have enough sheet vinyl flooring for the room.
Water
Important for cleaning before, during, and after the flooring project. The water should be warm.
Nylon Scrubbing Pad
The nylon scrubbing pad is used along with vinegar or cream of tartar to remove wax buildup from the linoleum flooring.
Stirrer
This is used when the floor should be cleaned with vinegar or cream of tartar—it will help mix the water and the cleaning ingredient.
Vinyl Flooring Adhesive
A good adhesive will ensure that the new sheet vinyl flooring stays in place. It’s best to use acrylic-based adhesives for this purpose because they’re able to handle temperature changes, won’t become ineffective if they get moist, and are typically resistant to heat.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on October 9, 2022.
Pry Bar
This tool will help to remove baseboards from the wall when and where necessary.
Utility Knife
A good utility knife or vinyl tile cutter is necessary to cut the sheet vinyl flooring as necessary.
Trowel
The trowel will be used to apply the adhesive to the new flooring.
Cloth
Use a microfiber cloth to clean the vinyl flooring so it doesn’t get damaged.
Floor Roller
You’ll use a floor roller to help the newly-placed sheet vinyl flooring stick properly to the linoleum and adhesive.
What Preparations Do You Need to Install Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Linoleum?
Once you have your sheet vinyl flooring ready and the necessary tools at hand, it can be tempting to dive in and start installing it as soon as possible. But that’s a bad idea—there are several preparations that must be taken care of before you permanently place your new flooring.
Before installing new sheet vinyl flooring, it’s important to let it acclimate for two days. The room where it will be placed must be prepared, so you have a clean, organized area to work in. It’s also a good idea to place the vinyl flooring without glue for a ‘dry run’ before committing.
Here’s a quick look at all the preparations to make before you install your sheet vinyl flooring:
Let the Vinyl Acclimate
Store the sheet vinyl flooring in the room where you’ll install it for at least two days before starting the project. This will ensure that the vinyl is able to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the room. If you don’t do this step, the vinyl flooring could deform over time, making it unsightly.
Prep the Room
Remove appliances, furniture, and any other possible obstacles from the room so your working area is clear. You’ll also have to ensure the linoleum is clean, there are no loose tiles and no missing parts. Clean the floor as well.
Do A Dry Run
Lay out your sheet vinyl flooring without adhesive to help you determine how the floor will look and if there are any corners that will need specifically cut tiles.
Cut Corner Tiles
If there are corners of the room that require cut vinyl to make the flooring fit properly, now is the time to take care of it. You can use your utility knife for this.
How to Install Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Linoleum
When you have finished all the necessary preparations, it’s time to install your new sheet vinyl flooring. Be sure to take your time and place every sheet carefully so you don’t have to redo the process, which can be costly and frustrating.
The installation of sheet vinyl flooring requires a number of steps to be followed. You’ll require acrylic-based adhesive glue. The glue must be applied to the floor and the sheets placed in the correct position. It’s important that you don’t use more glue than you need.
Here’s how you install your new sheet vinyl flooring:
Spread the Adhesive
Spread your adhesive onto the prepared floor and make sure it’s even. Use a trowel and only do a small part at a time.
Place the Vinyl Flooring
Place the sheet vinyl flooring where it should go, starting from the wall furthest from the door.
Press the Flooring
Use a floor roller to press your vinyl flooring into place. It will take a couple of rounds of pressing to ensure the flooring adheres properly. Wipe off any excess adhesive.
Let It Dry
Your vinyl flooring should be left to dry for at least 24 hours.
Reinstall The Baseboards
When the adhesive is dry, replace the baseboard trim or put in new ones that match the new flooring.
Move Your Furniture Back
Once all the steps have been followed, you can move your appliances and furniture back into the room.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on October 9, 2022.
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