How to Install a 1920's Style Retro Floor

The 1920s are known for Art Deco design, and related decor movements,

including the classic "checkerboard" tile floor. The tiles at that

time were often made of linoleum, a precursor to vinyl, that is made

with all-natural materials. You can duplicate that look today with

black and white linoleum or vinyl tiles. They both install in the same

manner, and are still a dramatic and evocative look for a kitchen or

bathroom.

Tape measure
Chalk snap line
Square
Vinyl tile adhesive
Notched trowel
Linoleum floor tiles (black and white in equal numbers)
Vinyl tile cutter

Instructions

- 1
  Use a chalk snap line to divide the floor into four quadrants, with two lines crossing from the center of one side to the center of the side across from it and intersecting in the middle. Lay a square at the intersection as you lay the lines to ensure they are exactly 90 degrees square.
- 2
  Spread vinyl tile adhesive onto the middle of the floor with a notched trowel, covering about four square feet in one of the four corners formed by intersected lines.
- 3
  Press a linoleum tile onto the floor at the intersection, so it's bordered by both lines. Press the tile fully down into the adhesive.
- 4
  Set the second linoleum tile of the opposite color against the first, making sure the edges are butted tightly to each other.
- 5
  Repeat, laying alternately colored tiles abutting each other in a checkerboard grid, using the lines to keep it all straight. Spread more adhesive as needed, working your way toward the walls.
- 6
  Using a vinyl tile cutter, cut tiles to fit around the perimeter of the room after all the full tiles are laid. Install the cut tiles with the cut sides facing the walls. Let them all set for 12 hours.

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