Can You Use Stick-Vinyl Over Existing Vinyl Floors?

Proper Subfloor

• The most important aspects of the subfloor are that it's a smooth surface and that its moisture levels and pH levels are in line with vinyl tile's requirements. A double layer of plywood with an underlayment is the best subfloor for installing peel-and-stick vinyl tiles, though it's certainly not the only option. Concrete and ceramic tile are also subfloor options for peel-and-stick tiles. If you're dealing with an existing vinyl floor, you can apply the tiles over it if you make sure to create an even surface.

Conditioning Existing Vinyl Flooring

• The previous vinyl flooring must be no more than one layer thick to apply the vinyl peel-and-stick tiles over it. If it's not, remove the flooring and previous adhesive down to the plywood subfloor before applying your tiles. If it is only one layer thick, clean the vinyl with the proper product according to the manufacturer. If the vinyl is embossed, which many vinyl floors are, fill the embossed vinyl with embossing leveler. This will give you a flat, smooth surface for applying your tiles. Exceptions to using existing vinyl flooring as a subfloor include: the subfloor is also tile applied to below-grade concrete; original floor is not firmly bonded to subfloor; or the existing vinyl flooring is cushioned.

Removing Existing Vinyl

• Unfortunately, not all existing vinyl floors meet the requirements for installing vinyl tiles over them. When removing an existing vinyl floor, which is not recommended unless completely necessary due to the possibility of asbestos, first check to see if the existing floor's adhesive is black. A black adhesive generally means it was an asphaltic adhesive or cut back adhesive. Never sand, sweep, chip, pulverize, beadblast or saw through this adhesive. This adhesive is toxic and flammable; call an expert to remove it. Use an electric tile knife or scraper to help you rip out the existing floor. Once the floor is removed, you will need to make sure the subfloor is appropriate for vinyl tiles.

Creating the Look

• Laying your vinyl floor tiles uses the same process -- for the most part -- as laying ceramic or other types of tiles. On the back of the peel-and-stick tiles, there will be arrows telling you which way the grain goes. This helps you create your ideal floor design quickly and easily. Set all the tiles facing the same way, or turn the tiles to create 90-degree (quarter turn) turns, which create a different effect. The possibilities are nearly endless with vinyl tiles.