Remove linoleum/install tile on concrete
I have the opportunity to do lay ceramic tile as part of renovations to a car dealer’s showroom. The floor is a cement slab which was most recently covered with carpet. However, in peeling up the carpet we discovered that there was a layer of linoleum which is glued to the concrete.
The linoleum doesn’t want to let go of the concrete, the bottom paper layer remains adhered in most places.
I would like some input on how to procede with the tile job. Is there something to use to dissolve the old linoleum glue? Can we adhere some material (durock?) over top the linoleum artifacts?
I’m looking forward to your ideas. Thanks in advance.
Replies
Go to your local ice cream supplier and get a chest full of dry ice. Put a pcs on the tile and kick it around the old tile will break loose. If you have not used dry ice before please, please learn about the precautions.
I have heard the dry ice idea to never tried it would like to know if it works. Question though what you are describing sounds like vinyl because you point out a bottom paper layer linoneum usually has a jute back. But it could just be a regional wording. I have heard that the dry ice works on the solid asphalt or commercial vinyl tiles.
The durrock would be tough you would have to screw it with tapcons. I don't thing it can be glued to the vinyl or the paper.
You could pull the vinyl up then try adhesive remover.smelly route espically if they are open for business as well as expensive. I have also sprayed it with hot water letting it soak then scraping it. Last I have also steamed some off you could try a wall paper steamer. All of these approaches I have tore off the top layer leaving the paper.
I have gone at it with a heat gun. Wear gloves heat an edge then pull vinyl and paper. The best way its to try every thing. My sister's friend' Ex husband runs a company on the east coast that just remove flooring from comercial buildings. They use machines and I think that they just do 12" solid vinyl type tiles. But that is another option to sub this part out if it is a large area and some one in your area does this. Just watch for the asbestos if it is old enough,you may want to have it tested, if you have tough enviro laws and then sub it out. it out .