Thursday, 1 May 2014

An Easy And Quick New Floor With Peel And Stick Vinyl Tiles

By Tracie Knight


A new floor will improve the look of your home more than most things, especially when your old one is ugly and damaged. If you wish to sell, or you just want a nicer looking home, consider replacing the flooring. You can even change the type of flooring with one of the many options available today.

No longer does getting a new floor involve working with smelly and messy adhesive, or difficult to manage flooring. With peel and stick vinyl tiles, you get ease and convenience, combined with excellent, colorful design possibilities. Even a less that pro do-it-yourselfer can work with them to get that perfect floor.

This new material makes installation easy and long-lasting. It is durable and flexible. The colors are beautiful, with almost any color being available. In the past it had to be a dull brown, green, gray, or other neutral color. No longer is that true. Now the installer can design intricate patterns and borders, using a mixture of colors as desired.

It is relatively easy to install these floors. Laying a quarter-inch plywood foundation helps make a smooth, level surface to which the flooring will adhere. Staggering joints and using a leveling compound on them will help get a smoother surface. Shoe molding must be removed and door jambs and casing trimmed to allow a good fit. A light sanding will further smooth the under layer.

The floor must be divided into four equal sections, marking them as you measure so you can locate the exact center. The first tile will be laid against the mark where the sections intersect. Each quadrant will start at the center intersection and work outward. This keeps there from being an unsightly gap with uneven tiles. Those in the center of the floor will be whole until you get to the outside edges.

When you get to where a whole tile doesn't fit between the previous one and the wall, it will need to be cut it to fit. To measure, the easiest way is to lay a full tile over the last one laid, matching it to the exposed edge of the laid tile. Place another full tile on top, butting one edge against the wall and overlapping the one to be cut. Cut along the overlapped edge. You will have the right size to set into the opening.

Once all tiles are laid, you should go back and cut out any that cover openings in the floor, such as heat registers. Use a sharp utility knife or a tile cutter so you will get a smooth, straight edge. Cut with a slow, sawing motion so the edge won't tear. Replace any vent covers, or anything that is located in the floor. Carefully replace the shoe molding, repairing or replacing any that is damaged.

When you are finished, lightly damp mop the floor to remove any dust and marks from construction. Then, sit down and enjoy your new floor. Expect many years of use and beauty. Be sure to save extra tiles in case you need to repair any damaged ones later on.




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