Search:

Can I Lay Ceramic Tile Over An Existing Vinyl Floor?

One of the most common questions when laying tile is, Can I lay ceramic tile over an existing vinyl floor in my kitchen/bath. Well the answer to that question is yes and no. It all depends on two things, the condition of the vinyl floor and what is underneath the vinyl floor. In this article we are going to look at these two items in more detail.
1. Is your vinyl flooring in good condition?
Ceramic tile needs a good bond to the material underneath. If your vinyl flooring is still adhering to the subflooring (not coming up at the corners or edges) you can answer yes to this question. You will want to make sure the vinyl flooring is clean before proceeding. Use a scrub brush and vinyl tile cleaner to remove grease and dirt before attempting to lay the ceramic tile. Grease and dirt and limit the adhesive nature of the thin set. If the vinyl flooring is coming up in some areas it is best to remove the vinyl floor before laying the ceramic tile. Dont try to cut corners in this area as it will cost you more in time and money later. When in doubt remove the vinyl flooring.

2. What subflooring is under the vinyl floor, wood or concrete?
If your subflooring is concrete you are good to go if you answered yes to question number 1. If your subflooring is plywood then you will want to take the time to install backerboard to the flooring. Backerboard is a cement board 1/2 inch thick. Install the board by screwing it down to the floor joist. Be sure to use the recommended screws for the backerboard to prevent corrosion from the moisture in the thin set. If you are in an older house with solid wood floors you may have a problem with the solid wood floors shrinking and expanding based on the humidity levels. In this case you can try installing 1/2 inch plywood on top of the wood floors with construction adhesive and screws. Then apply the backboard, in this instance you can try using 1/8 inch backerboard since you have a solid flooring from the additional plywood.

I hope this article helps solves that common question of Can I lay ceramic tile over an existing vinyl floor. Remember to take your time during the floor preparation, this is not the area you want to rush.

About the Author (text)

David Monroe is a jack of all trades. One of his hobbies is home improvement. Read his other article, 5 Tips For Laying Ceramic Floor Tile at www.squidoo.com/5tipsforlayingtile

low fat foods

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated

Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Home Articles Via RSS!

Additional Articles From - Home | Home

For Custom Home Theatres - By : Robert Thomson
Marble Tiles - Important Tips for plumbers - By : Alex Gwen Thomson
The Lowdown on San Jose Water Damage - By : Leo Nov
Water damage in Phoenix - By : Leo Nov
Finding Living Room Furniture that Fits Your Family’s Needs - By : Robert Thomson
Preparing a Deer Tolerant Hummingbird Garden - By : Ben Needles
And You Thought Dust Was Bad ... - By : Ben Needles
International Shipping Of Furniture - By : Ben Needles
Transform Your Rooms With Oriental Rugs - By : Ben Needles
Tips for Choosing Functional Custom Bathroom Cabinets That Look Great - By : Ben Needles

	Print This Article
	Post Comment
	Add To Favorites
	Email to Friends
	Ezine Ready

Visit For Great Skin
Skin Care
Skin Treatments
Skin Care
Acne

More Funstuff
Love & Dating Tips
Personality Tests
Myspace Graphics
Love Quizzes
Myspace Comments
Friendster Layouts
hi5 Layouts
quotes
birthday today
acronyms
dating advisor
cool music videos
bollywood videos