How to Attach Durock to Vinyl Flooring

Remodeling with old vinyl flooring is a risky proposition, as many vinyl floors installed before the mid-1980s contain asbestos. Removing asbestos-containing flooring yourself is actually more dangerous than leaving it in and covering it up. To install new tile or laminate over the vinyl, you'll need to lay cement board such as Durock first. You can find Durock at any home and garden center; once it's in place, you'll be ready to install your new flooring.

Abrasive cleanser
Sponge mop
Utility knife
Metal straightedge
Floor adhesive
Notched trowel
Putty knife
Fiberglass mesh
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the vinyl flooring with a wet mop and an abrasive cleanser. The cleanser will etch the floor slightly; do not sand the vinyl unless you are sure it does not contain asbestos. Rinse the floor and allow it to dry.
- 2
  Lay the Durock panels over the vinyl flooring, spacing them so the spaces between the panels line up with the midpoint of the panels above and below them. Leave 1/4 inch around the outer edges. With a utility knife, cut the end panels and any panels near permanent fixtures to fit; use a metal straightedge to make straight cuts.
- 3
  Remove the Durock panels and set them aside. Sweep up any dirt or debris on the floor.
- 4
  Mix the flooring adhesive as directed. Spread the adhesive in a thin layer in an area just larger than the size of one panel, using the notched edge of the trowel to create a ridged surface. Immediately lay a concrete panel over the adhesive.
- 5
  Apply the adhesive and panels one at a time until you've covered all of the vinyl flooring.
- 6
  Fill the spaces between the panels with adhesive using a putty knife. Lay a strip of fiberglass mesh that's been cut to size with scissors over the adhesive, then apply a layer of adhesive on top of it.
- 7
  Allow the adhesive to dry overnight before installing the tile over the Durock.

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