Asked on May 18, 2018
Do I need special underlayment for self-stick vinyl tiles?
by
Peggy
+3
I have a carpeted master bath/bedroom suite. I want to replace the carpet in the bathroom with self-stick vinyl tiles. Do I need special underlament, or can I stick the tiles directly onto the plywood flooring that was underneath the carpet?
PS... wall to wall carpet in a bathroom is a very bad idea. I am open to other suggestions. I have even considered painting the floor, but I think you would Still see the seams betweven the pieces of plywood. I love to do things myself to save money...and I love Hometalk.com
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http://homeguides.sfgate.com/peel-stick-tile-work-plywood-69004.html
If the plywood is in good shape you can go directly over it with self stick. Make sure it's clean and dry.
Only if the floor is bumpy
You will want to use floor leveling compound on the joints and nail holes. get it and the trowel at the same place you get the tile. Bumps and cracks will eventually show through so smooth them down first.
Peel and stick vinyl tiles are NOT waterproof. I would not recommend them for a bathroom. There are other options that are also inexpensive and are suitable. Some ceramic tiles are only about $1/sf and vinyl flooring is very inexpensive, too.
I agree with Laura. I've had to give peel and stick vinyl tile floors several coats of floor polyurethane. Otherwise water can drip down between the stick on vinyl tiles. There are some beautiful sheet vinyls that are cushy and look like tile, stone, or wood floors. Easy to clean and no wax. Make sure all carpet tacks/staples are removed from floor and use joint level compound on nail holes and spaces between plywood on floor like Gary said. I love to save money, too.