Help! Old linoleum colors are smearing when washed.
by
Nancy
+10
We have a cabin with linoleum from 1940. Our new puppy recently peed on it. The floor is red and white squares. When we tried just blotting & cleaning with paper towels the red dye ran. Now one square is a lighter pink (no longer deep red) & some of the red has also run into the white square. Clearly her urine is what caused the reaction. Pretty awful. What can I do to just clean it without continuing to risk ruining the color or having it run or get lighter? Something very mild? Thx
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You may want to consider replacing the flooring or putting new flooring over it. Some linoleum contains asbestos. Also it sounds like whatever protective coating that was on it is deteriorating. Here's a link with information on linoleum floors:
https://inspectapedia.com/interiors/Linoleum_Flooring.php
From what I researched, there is a good chance your floor contains asbestos. The solution comes down to replace (be sure to get someone who can properly handle asbestos exposure) or seal it off (contain).
sounds like the floors were repainted regular linoleum floors would not do that - https://www.thriftyfun.com/Repairing-a-Faded-Spot-on-Linoleum-Flooring.html
Hi Nancy, if they are that old, they are likely asbestos, you would do good to put new flooring over it, or paint it and seal it, do not disturb the asbestos by scrubbing or cleaning it. Here is some instruction to paint it, hope it helps you.
https://www.hunker.com/13402324/can-i-paint-over-asbestos-floor-tiles
As it turns out, if you don't get to the dog tinkle fast enough, it will change the color of the floor regardless. I wouldn't put a new floor over it as you'd only be burying the problem and the dog will still smell it, tinkle over it again. Your best bet is to get to the tinkle as quick as possible.
Got to agree with the old tile.
https://www.onthehouse.com/removing-old-linoleum-can-release-asbestos/
You can try using nail polish mover or OOPS paint remover. Be very careful. Your flooring more likely contains asbestos. Do not try to remove it yourself. You can legally cover it with vinyl sheet flooring if you choose to.
I would blot it up with a bunch of paper towels, then use a rag with cleaning vinegar.
Hi, Is it possible the red tiles have been painted over before? Perhaps you could do the same again!
I think those tiles have been painted and the urine is removing the paint. Repaint or put down new vinyl tiles
Dish soap and water
Here's a post that might help https://homeguides.sfgate.com/would-cause-floors-always-look-smeared-after-cleaning-105820.html
No further discussion necessary.
Thank you.