How to Install Linoleum Flooring on Concrete

There are a number of steps to follow when installing linoleum flooring, especially when placing it over an existing concrete floor. By installing linoleum flooring, you will be able to get a beautiful floor that is also environmentally friendly. Here are the basics of how to install linoleum flooring on concrete.

Step 1 - Prepare

Before you can get started with this job, a fair amount of preparation has to be done. Start out by removing any of the old flooring that is still on top of the concrete. Then you may need to use a pry bar to remove the baseboards around the outside of the room. If you plan to replace them after installing the flooring, mark their locations by labeling the back of the baseboard and the corresponding wall.

You also need to make sure that the concrete subfloor is level and even. If there are imperfections in the subfloor, you need to use self-leveling compound to even them out. Allow the self-leveling compound to dry before moving forward.

Step 2 - Acclimate

Before you install, you also need to let the linoleum acclimate to the new surroundings. Linoleum is a natural product and it requires an acclimation period before you can install it. This allows it to expand and contract based on the humidity and temperature of the room. Leave it in the room for about 24 to 48 hours before installing.

Step 3 - Loose Lay the Linoleum

Then you should unroll the linoleum and let it relax. Spread the linoleum out in the room in which it is going to be installed in. If there is excess linoleum, you can use a knife to trim off the edges.

Step 4 - Start Installing

At this point, you need to start applying some of the adhesive. Roll back half of the piece of linoleum to expose the concrete floor. Then use your trowel to apply some of the adhesive to the concrete. Make sure that the adhesive is spread evenly over the surface of the concrete floor. Then you can lay the first half of the linoleum down on the floor. Press it down as firmly as possible to the ground.

Step 5 - Continue

You will then need to pull the other portion of the linoleum up and expose the concrete below. Take your trowel and use it to apply more adhesive to the surface of the floor. Then take the remaining piece of linoleum and press it down firmly into the adhesive. At this point, the adhesive should be underneath all of the linoleum.

Step 6 - Roll

Once you get all of the linoleum down on the floor, you need to roll it with a flooring roller. By doing this, you will be able to remove any gaps between the floor and the linoleum and make sure that it sticks down into the adhesive well.

Step 7 - Finish Up

If there is any excess linoleum around the edge of the room, you can use your utility knife to cut it off. You may need to use a straightedge to make a good cut. You should also apply a bead of caulk to the edge of the linoleum so that water will not be able to get up underneath it.