Floor Newbie - Tile floor

[DanielB]

I'm really digging this type of floor. When I was in the Navy the ships all had tile floors like this. I even laid some as "extra duty" (another story).. but it went like.. 1) Put tile on tile heater to soften it up 2) Spread black goop on floor 3) place tile on black goop 4) Press to seal.

These floors, if stripped, mopped, and waxed regularly will shine up like mirrors and they can take a real beating.

What is this type of tile called? Is this the way that it is laid?

[cameront120]

Most likely linoleum. The most common brand is Marmoleum by Forbo and comes in sheets or tiles.

[cameront120]

Another option would be a vinyl composite tile by Amtico. Not as nice, but very durable. It is often used in industrial and institutional applications.

[markdoane]

I think you're looking at VCT, vinyl composition tile. It's about 1/8" thick and is used in commercial installations.

VCT is a general description, not a brand name.

[DanielB]

Thanks. That looks like it.. VCT.

[dmcinfo]

I'm using a commercial grade of vinyl tile made by armstrong. Lots of colors to choose from. Its carried at Lowes and not too expensive. Thats the next phase of my project so I can't comment on installation.

[cameront120]

If you go with tile, be sure to line up the seams with the joints in the plywood floor to avoid stress cracking in the vinyl tiles.

[dmcinfo]

What are the ramifications of putting down new vinyl tile over old vinyl tile? Anyone try this?

[cameront120]

When the original tile is glued securely to the subfloor, new tile is placed over old all the time in home renovations with good results. I've never tried it in a trailer so can't say for certain. My primary concern is that the original tile floor is in good shape - no gaps, large cracks or missing pieces, as those flaws will translate through the new layer of tiles. My other concern would be the additional weight.

[Joe K]

hi folks, new here and am wondering if its worth taking up atleast some of the easy to remove tiles because they're asbestos. are they asbestos in a 62 overlander? thanks, joe

[Gene]

Here are some links on asbestos tile:

Asbestos - Floor Tile Removal - EH: Minnesota Department of Health
Asbestos Tile Removal - Do It Yourself Instructions

There are plenty more websites on this. Armstrong used asbestos until 1980 and I'm sure other companies did, so it is likely you do have asbestos tile. I removed tile many years ago not even thinking about asbestos, but wouldn't do it now. I'd make sure the existing tiles are firmly glued and put a new floor on top.

If you look carefully at the photo in the original post, the tile on the left side transfers bumps and other imperfections from the subfloor through the tile. Make sure the subfloor or whatever is below is smooth enough.

Gene

[DanielB]

I did get the tile floor done.
The only thing that I might do differently is this:
I used Henry tile adhesive from Lowes. It is milky color.
I talked to a guy that was putting down tile at work and he was using this Henry brand black stuff.
I was told that the milky stuff was water based and would loosen if it got wet under there.
He said the black stuff would not.

I had a couple small bumps from something under the tile. I just banged them down with a hammer.

[Splitrock]

Originally Posted by DanielB

I had a couple small bumps from something under the tile. I just banged them down with a hammer.

I think you may have found your contacts.

[ddstech]

I like the stripper poles. There is a party waiting to happen in there! You going to wrap those in aluminum or have them chromed?

[Gene]

Originally Posted by ddstech

I like the stripper poles. There is a party waiting to happen in there! You going to wrap those in aluminum or have them chromed?

I think he's building a subway car. I have to get off at 59th St.

Gene

[DanielB]

All of the above sound unsanitary..