No matter what your budget may be, self-stick vinyl
is a great flooring option.
It's affordable, durable, and comes in a variety of styles.
They're also highly resistant to dents, stains, and scuffs.
So today, we're going to go over how you can install self-stick vinyl tiles.
Most vinyl tiles sold today has a peel-and-stick backing.
It's a good product that makes the job of installation a little easier, which
is why homeowners love it.
It's important to point out that vinyl flooring must
be used in a temperature-controlled environment
before, during, and after installation.
In fact, not acclimating the products for 48 to 72 hours
in the room of installation may result in the failure of the adhesive.
Installation requires that you first properly prepare the subfloors
before laying the tiles.
The adhesive is already on the back of the tile.
All ready to go?
Let's do this.
All right, the first step is surface preparation.
Self-stick vinyl tiles can be installed over a variety of subfloors, including
concrete, plywood, or sheet vinyl.
No matter what the surface, it must be free of old adhesive, moisture,
and dust.
It must be smooth before any tile installation.
For porous floors like concrete or wood, you'll need a latex floor primer.
The primer must dry completely before any installation occurs.
Step two is where we'll plan out the installation.
With backing still on the tile, begin mapping out your tiles.
Start by identifying the center of the room.
Measure out the length and width of the room
and draw guidelines from the center of each wall using a chalk line.
Use the intersection of your lines to find the center of the room.
This is a crucial step and will make sure you
have enough tiles to finish the room.
Make sure all tiles are from the same lot and batch.
Mixing tiles and planks can cause visual inconsistencies.
Step three, place the tiles.
From the center out, start to place your tiles.
Avoid space at the edges of the room by adjusting the arrangement of the tiles.
You don't want less than 6 inches.
Step four, peel the backings and apply the tiles.
Remove the backing from the first placed tile in the center of the room.
Press it down firmly.
To keep the work area clean, have a trash bag or small can handy
while you work to collect the release papers as they're removed.
The next tile should be installed tightly
against the edge of the initial tile.
Install the remaining tiles in a step pattern, working one section at a time.
Step five, fix any end tiles.
It's possible that the last tile in a row may need to be cut to fit.
Trim the tile by placing it over the last full tile.
Then place another full tile against the wall.
Use this method to mark a cutting line where the tiles overlap.
For irregular cuts, make a pattern and transfer it to a tile.
Score the top of the tile gently.
Test the template to ensure it fits.
Then if it's set, you can remove the backing and place the tile.
Be sure to place the cut against the wall.
Step six, roll your floor.
To assure your tiles are set firmly, it's
important to use a roller on the finished tiles.
Roll back and forth in both directions to bond the tiles to the floor.
Install the wall base and moldings to complete the project.
Once finished, we suggest waiting five days before washing the floor.
Self-stick vinyl tiles are not only easy to install,
they're a beautiful addition to your home.
Plus, they're extremely durable and maintenance-free.
Before you go ahead and get your floor started, make sure
you have all the right resources.
Tool wise, you'll need a tape measure, a chalk line, a utility knife,
a carpenter's square, and a roller.
Your subfloor will determine what you'll need to prepare it.
Got any questions?
Head over to your local Home Depot and ask the folks
in the flooring department.
They've got you covered.