Problems With Vinyl Composite Tile Floors

Poor Installation

• The nearly seamless look of vinyl composite tile floor is compromised when a poor installation job leaves gaps and glue residues. Instead of applying the tile adhesive to the back of the vinyl tiles, apply the adhesive to the floor beneath. Set the tiles tightly together on the glued surface to produce a tight, gapless fit with less glue on your hands and on the top side of the tiles.

Maintenance

• When a vinyl composite tile floor is sealed, it is easy to sweep and mop clean. When it is not sealed, dirt and spills readily stain the material, leaving behind worn-looking, dingy tiles. This type of flooring requires daily sweeping to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches and dents in the tiles.

Taking on the Shape of the Floor

• Unlike a ceramic or similar tiled floor that has mortar to help make the finished floor smooth and level, vinyl composite flooring laid on an uneven floor does not cover up its imperfections. As the vinyl composite tiles settle and adhere to the glue, it will reveal the surface shape of the floor beneath. Any bumps and dips underneath will become the bumps and dips of the vinyl tiles. You can solve this problem by leveling the floor with floor-leveling compounds before the vinyl composite tile is installed.

Nicks and Damage

• Heavy traffic causes wear and tear on the floor. Some of the heavily used surfaces will wear away, leaving behind a slight dip in the floor. If a sharp object punctures the vinyl composite tile, it will leave an unsightly nick, and if a tile becomes loose and peels up, it will easily crack if it is bent. Minimize this daily wear and tear on the floor by using floor mats and runners to cover areas with the heaviest traffic.

Removing Old Tiles

• The adhesive used to bind vinyl composite tiles before 1990 poses a risk of asbestos exposure, according to Floor Covering Installer. When it is time to remove old vinyl tiles, contact a professional asbestos removal company to test the tiles before the removal begins. If asbestos is found, have the tiles and glue residue professionally removed.