Is there an easy do it yourself way to pull up linoleum floors and the glue to be able to put down tile?

Question

Or can you put it on top of the linoleum floors?

Answer 1

Hello Gantt,

I would first check the structure of your subfloor.  See what kind of joists you have, what the span is, what kind of subflooring you have.  Check the joists and span from basement or crawlspace, and the subflooring by removing a HVAC register from the floor.  Check you joists here: http://www.johnbridge.com/vbulletin/show...  Many times luan plywood is used under linoleum flooring, it is 1/4", lacks exterior glue which could delaminate and lacks any type of structural value.  Though you may get answers telling you to lay over the linoleum, I as a pro would not.  You can take a circular saw set at the depth of the luan and rip it into manageable strips for removal.  If you don't have luan, also cut the lino into strips and remove.  Try to get as much of the adhesive and lino up, but if you have some of the paper backing left, sweat not, you have removed the part of the lino that prevents bonding by the thinset mortar.  After removing the luan/lino, you can then add underlayment for tile or more ply (if needed to stiffen the floor; BC sanded greater than 1/2").  Once underlayment is down, tile can then be installed.  Many tile installation failures are due inadequate preparation and insufficient subflooring.  To get the true value out of the longevity of tile these steps need to be taken.  You can visit the site below to have pros assist you step by step through your project.  Best of luck :)

Answer 2

Well I guess you can do what bd tile said too but theres a machine available at most equipment rental stores that'll make your job a lot easier only caution take it slow at first it'll get away from you quick if your not used to it and keep the blade at a minimum angle to the floor almost parralell these machines get most of the glue up as a rule but if your using thinset you shouldnt need all the glue up, I do agree with bd do not lay your tile over the linolium your asking for cracked grout if you do it.