The Essential Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Vinyl Tile the Right Way

Installing self-adhesive tiles isn’t difficult, but it does take a bit of prep. First, clean the old floor and repair any uneven places. Self-adhesive tile requires a smooth clean surface, so proper cleaning and preparation is essential. Then, determine your midpoint in the room by measuring wall to wall and running string from one joist to another. This midpoint is where your tile pattern will start.

Begin laying the tiles from the midpoint outward. As you go, remember to stagger the tiles so that the pattern is broken up. For rounded walls and corners, create a template out of pencil and paper and use this as a guide to cut the tiles accordingly with a utility knife or scissors (warming the tiles with a blow dryer first makes the cutting easier).

If you had to use underlayment and the edges seem high compared to the floor, use trim in order to reduce the difference. When dealing with pattern tiles, it’s easier to take your time and secure them one at a time in order to ensure they don’t slip.

Once you have finished laying the tiles and all edges are cut and secured, it’s time to put the trim back on if there was any to begin with– door or wall trim, or even baseboards. Don’t omit this step because it helps firmly secure the tiles and provide a finished look. In the case of selecting a new floor for a room, going with a neutral color might be best if uncertain about wall design. For more complicated patterns, it’s best to plan ahead and lay out the pattern in the room, so you can visualize what it will look like with the walls and trim.

Installing self-adhesive tiles is a fun, inexpensive way to give any room a facelift. With a little patience and the right supplies, a beautiful new floor is within reach.