How to Fix the Spacing in Vinyl Floor Tile

Vinyl tiles are generally an inexpensive flooring option that is simple to install and requires very little maintenance. However, peel-and-stick vinyl tiles can begin to develop gaps between them. There are several reasons why vinyl tiles can begin to slide away from each other, leaving an ugly gap or spacing between the tiles. Improper installation, low-quality adhesive and age are just three of the culprits that could leave your vinyl floor looking a mess.

Hairdryer
Paint scraper
Paper towels
Rag
Mastic
Paintbrush
Rolling pin
Wax paper

Instructions

- 1
  Hold a hairdryer set on medium heat several inches above the vinyl tiles that have shifted. Apply heat with the hairdryer by moving it slowly back and forth over the tiles for several seconds.
- 2
  Lift up gently on one of the tiles that has shifted at the corner. Apply more heat with the hairdryer if you meet resistance. Pull up any other tiles that have shifted in the same manner.
- 3
  Scrape the old adhesive off the subfloor with a paint scraper. Wipe the paint scraper with a paper towel after each pass and continue scraping the subfloor until you have removed the old adhesive. Gently scrape the old adhesive off the back of all shifted tiles in the same manner as on the subfloor.
- 4
  Wipe the subfloor and the back of each shifted tile with a damp rag. Let the subfloor and tiles dry for 15 minutes. Brush mastic on the subfloor with a paintbrush then replace the tiles flush against each other.
- 5
  Use a rolling pin to apply pressure to the tiles in a back and forth motion. Cover the tiles with wax paper and set a heavy object on top of them for 24 hours.

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