My Linoleum Flooring Is Sweating

Causes of Sweating

• Sweating can occur for several reasons, but the presence of air bubbles is a common cause. When you do not properly smooth down the flooring, air bubbles appear beneath the linoleum, creating hills and valleys. Moisture in the air can attach to the trouble spots and leave behind small droplets. Sweating also occurs as the result of condensation. The linoleum has a lower temperature than the air above and when moisture moves between the temperature, it can lead to sweating.

Symptoms

• The first sign of a sweating problem is when you notice water droplets on the surface of the linoleum. The water droplets vary in size, but are typically as small as the eraser on a pencil. If you leave the problem untreated, you might notice that the droplets increase in size or that you find more water on the linoleum. Eventually, you might discover that the water moves into small poles, which sit directly on the surface of the linoleum.

Prevention

• The best method of preventing sweating is proper installation. When you apply the linoleum glue to the sub-flooring, wait until the glue feels slightly tacky before adding the flooring. Work a flat trowel or a rubber scraper across the floor, making sure that you remove any air bubbles and that the linoleum attaches to the glue. If you experience sweating, it might require removal of the floor and laying new linoleum.

Warning

• Leaving the linoleum problem untreated is dangerous for your home. Any time you have standing water, you risk bugs infesting your home or mold settling onto the floors. As the water sits on top of the linoleum, it slowly weakens the strength of the linoleum and may even fade or dull the original color and pattern. You also risk the water soaking underneath the linoleum and loosening the adhesive. Once the adhesive loosens, the linoleum begins peeling away from the flooring or cracking. Pay special attention to the edges of the linoleum, where it meets counters or appliances. Exposed linoleum edges increase your risk of danger.