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How does installation of Linoleum work?

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It depends. If you choose to lay linoleum tiles, experts say it’s quite simple. Using a notched trowel, you can spread latex adhesive on a prepped floor, butt the tiles up against one another, and flatten. And, of course, those tiles with adhesive already applied make for simple work. You might have to cut the tiles to fit around appliances, cabinets, or toilets, but otherwise these tiles are relatively fool-proof. However, the self-stick tiles aren’t nearly as durable as the sheet of linoleum. This is because the tiles, by nature of their size, will require many more seams—and, thus, many more opportunities for peeling or for water damage.

Sheet linoleum, while generally more durable, requires more work. This method requires more cutting to fit in nooks and crannies, trimming or beveling edges, overlapping seams, and waiting for the adhesive to dry for 24 hours. It’s not as easy as it sounds, experts say, but it can be done by experienced or adventuresome do-it-yourselfers.

But before you can do any of this, you have to make sure your existing floor is ready. If the existing floor is loose, damaged, or peeling, you might need to remove the old flooring. Also, if stacking new flooring on top of the old flooring will make the floor too high—causing doors not to open or appliances to sit too high—you also need to remove the old flooring. If you just have a few cracks or patches in the floor, you can use a flooring patch before applying the new flooring.

Next Page: Are linoleum and vinyl flooring the same thing?

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