Monday, January 31, 2011

Install Armstrong Tiles

Armstrong vinyl tile is available in more than 100 designs.


Armstrong offers both vinyl sheeting and tiles -- both provide similar floor coverage but tiles are far more use friendly. In many cases, the tiles are self-adhesive which eliminates the need for potentially messy adhesive. The company offers a design for just about anyone, including nearly 70 patterns that mimic the look of natural stone. Always start with a clean surface and remove all of the furniture from your room before you begin.


Instructions


1. Use a tape measure to find the middle point on each of the four walls in your room. Mark the middle point with a pencil and then snap a chalk line between the mid-points on opposing walls. The end result will be two lines that overlap in the center of the room, creating four equal quadrants. Use a framing square to confirm that the lines create four 90 degree angles.


2. Spread adhesive over half of the room for tiles that require it. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive and let it set per the instructions for your specific adhesive -- as a general rule, the adhesive is ready when it feels dry to the touch and does not stick to your finger. For tiles that are self-adhesive, peel back the thin piece of paper backing.


3. Start laying tiles in the center of the room, placing the corner of the first tile into one of the corners created by your chalk lines. Continue to lay the tiles in rows, filling up one quadrant entirely before moving on to the next. When working with adhesive, wait until the side with adhesive is completely tiled before starting on the other side.


4. Cut tiles to fit against the wall using a utility knife. To measure the necessary size for your tile, place a full size tile (Tile 1) over the last full tile on the ground and then place another tile (Tile 2) over Tile 1. Slide Tile 2 so that it is flush with the wall. Mark the edge of Tile 2 with a pencil -- the mark will show up on Tile 1. Cut Tile 1 along the pencil line and use it to fill the gap against the wall.








5. Roll the entire wall in both directions to secure the tile. Wait at least five days before washing the tile.

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