If the curling edges of your linoleum has you worried that its days are numbered, relax. A little curling doesn't mean you have to spring for new flooring. Loss of adhesion, usually due to moisture, can sometimes result in the edges peeling away from the floor. If the linoleum is in good shape and you don't want to replace it, you can flatten it again easily with a few inexpensive supplies from the hardware store.
Aim a hair dryer on high at the linoleum for a minute or two to make it slightly more pliable. Gently pull the linoleum back.
Clean up the exposed subfloor. Use a plastic scraper to clear away debris. Brush dust into a dust bin or vacuum up particles. If moisture has seeped between the linoleum and subfloor, it may be damp. Allow it to air dry-for a few days before proceeding.
Spread an even coat of flooring adhesive onto the underside of the linoleum with a putty knife. Flatten the linoleum down and roll it with a rolling pin or brayer to help affix it more securely.
Wipe away any excess adhesive that may have bled out from under the edge of the linoleum using a damp rag. Place weights on top of the linoleum. such as phone books or a two-by-four. Weigh them down further with cans or heavy boxes.
Let the adhesive set overnight, then remove the weights.
Things You Will Need
- Hair dryer
- Plastic scraper
- Broom and dust pan
- Vinyl flooring adhesive
- Putty knife
- Brayer or rolling pin
- Damp rag
- When your linoleum beings to peel, act quickly. The sooner you make repairs, the easier they will be.
- Once the adhesive is set, apply silicone calk along the edge of the linoleum if it is in a moisture-prone area, such as at the base of the bathtub. This will prevent water from seeping in to cause further peeling.
- To prevent your linoleum from peeling up again, consider installing baseboards along the wall around the room, which will help hold the edges of linoleum down.
- Be careful when pulling back linoleum, especially when it's cool. It can crack and crease, or a piece can break off.
- Do not overheat the linoleum. Excess heat can cause the finish to blister or discolor it.
- If moisture has resulted in damage to the subfloor, such as wood rot or mold, you will need to fix it before you can restick the linoleum.
- When working with products like flooring adhesive, follow the manufacturer's directions and take the recommended safety precautions.
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