You have a linoleum floor now, but you’re ready for a change. Tile is your top choice for the new look. Of course, you’d like to save time and effort in the process. Can you tile over linoleum?
In many cases, you can put tile on top of linoleum! But before you dive into this project, weigh the pros and cons to figure out whether it’s a good idea in your house.
Can You Tile Over Linoleum?
Yes, tile can go over linoleum floors. Linoleum is in a category known as resilient flooring. Those are materials that are firm but still have some give to them. Other examples of resilient flooring include vinyl tiles, sheet vinyl and cork. Because resilient flooring is sturdy, it often works well to lay tiles on top of it.
3 Times to Tile Over Linoleum
There are certain situations in which laying tile over linoleum may be your best choice. They include:
- Glued-down flooring: If you want to lay tile on top, it’s best if the linoleum is firmly glued to the layer below. That way, you don’t have to worry that it will shift over time and cause your tiles to move.
- Good condition of all layers: Tile needs a strong, supportive surface. Not only does the linoleum need to be in great shape, but the subflooring and joists need to be up to the task, too.
- Old linoleum: If your linoleum is several decades old, it may contain asbestos. Removing it can release harmful particles, so it may be better to leave it in place and put the tile over it.
If your floors meet one or more of these characteristics, then it may work well to lay new tile on top of it.
4 Times You Shouldn’t Tile Over Linoleum
Although it often works well to put tile on linoleum, it’s not the right choice for every project. Clues that a different approach is needed include:
- Bulging or broken pieces: Tile needs a flat, even surface. If your linoleum has dips, bumps or breaks, it won’t work well for this project.
- Cushioned backing: If there’s a cushion under your linoleum, it can’t provide the stable surface that your new tiles will need. The cushion may compress in some areas of the room over time.
- Excess height: Putting thick tiles over the linoleum may make your floor too high. That may not work with your baseboards. It can even interfere with opening and closing doors.
- Simple removal: If your linoleum will come up easily, it might make the most sense to remove it before putting down tile.
You may be able to remedy some of these situations — for example, by repairing broken linoleum — but others are automatic dealbreakers.
How to Tile Over Linoleum
If your project is a good candidate for putting tile over linoleum, then here’s a general overview of how to go about it.
First, wash the floor and sand it. (Note: Don’t sand linoleum that may contain asbestos. In fact, whether you plan to remove such linoleum or leave it in place, it might be best to consult a pro.)
Next, clean the floor again. Trisodium phosphate is a good chemical to use because it’s quite effective at busting through dirt and grime. If any repairs are needed, tackle those, too.
Once those preparatory jobs are done, you can place a layer of cement board panels over the linoleum. Use thin-set adhesive to hold it in place. Between each of the panels, place joint tape that’s specifically designed for cement board.
After you’ve completed each of those steps, your previously linoleum floor will be ready for you to lay the tiles. You can use ceramic, porcelain or stone. Before you know it, the room will have a whole new look!
