1. Surface Preparation:

Proper surface preparation is crucial to ensure that the PVC flooring adheres properly to the tiles and that the finished result is smooth and durable.

Clean the Tiled Floor:

Thoroughly clean the tile surface to remove any dirt, grime, grease, or oils. Use a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner and scrub the tiles well, as any residue could interfere with the adhesion of the PVC flooring.

Make sure the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

Fill in Grout Lines:

Tiles typically have grout lines that are raised above the surface of the tiles. These can create an uneven surface for the PVC flooring.

Option 1: You can fill these grout lines with a floor leveling compound or self-leveling underlayment. This will create a flat surface for the PVC flooring to adhere to.

Option 2: If the grout lines are shallow, you might choose to leave them as is, but you'll need to ensure that the adhesive used is strong enough to bond to both the tile and the grout. In this case, it's important to apply a thicker adhesive to compensate for the unevenness.

Check for Cracks and Damage:

Inspect the tiled floor for any cracks or damage. If tiles are loose, cracked, or damaged, these issues should be repaired or replaced before proceeding. If left untreated, these imperfections may show through the new PVC floor.

Use a suitable tile repair filler for cracks, and ensure the surface is smooth before installation.

2. Adhesive Selection:

Choosing the right adhesive is essential to achieving a secure and lasting bond between the PVC flooring and the tiled surface.

Type of Adhesive:

Pressure-sensitive adhesive: Commonly used for PVC flooring, pressure-sensitive adhesives allow for repositioning during installation but will bond firmly once pressure is applied.

Full-spread adhesive: For better adhesion, you may need to use a full-spread adhesive, especially if the tiles are non-porous or if the surface has residual dirt or grease.

Contact cement: In some cases, contact cement may be necessary for areas with heavy traffic, as it creates a very strong bond once pressed together.

Test Compatibility:

Always test the adhesive on a small area to check its compatibility with both the tile surface and the PVC flooring. Some adhesives might not work well with certain types of tiles (e.g., glossy or highly sealed tiles).

3. Floor Leveling and Flattening:

Smooth, Flat Surface:

Tiles with deep grout lines or raised areas can cause the PVC flooring to buckle or wear prematurely. If the tiles have uneven spots, consider applying a self-leveling compound to create a smoother surface for the PVC flooring to rest on.

Avoid Excessive Height:

Be mindful of the height increase due to the thickness of the leveling compound and the PVC flooring. Too much height difference between adjacent rooms or floor transitions can result in a tripping hazard. Use transition strips if necessary to blend the new floor with other areas of the home.

4. Acclimation of PVC Flooring:

Before installation, allow the PVC flooring to acclimate to the room’s temperature for 24–48 hours. This helps reduce the risk of expansion or contraction after installation, especially if the room temperature fluctuates.

Temperature Conditions:

Make sure the room temperature is between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C) during installation. Extreme temperatures can affect both the PVC flooring and the adhesive.