How to Fix Swollen Linoleum

Linoleum tiles may become waterlogged and swell as a result of flooding, spills from tubs and sinks or leaky pipes. Swollen linoleum tiles must be removed to allow both the tiles and the wooden subflooring to dry out. Drying the flooring and subflooring will reduce swelling and prevent mildew and rotting wood.

Putty knife
Lacquer thinner
Heat gun
Scraper
Hammer and small nail
White vinegar or mildew cleaner
Dehumidifier
Fans
Vacuum cleaner
Linoleum paste
Bricks

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the swollen tiles and any molding securing the tiles, using a putty knife to pry up the flooring and lacquer thinner to thin the adhesive. If the tiles are secured with strong cement glue, use a heat gun to soften it.
- 2
  Scrape off any remaining adhesive on the subflooring, using a scraping tool.
- 3
  Pierce any bubbles in the subflooring with a hammer and small nail.
- 4
  Wipe down any existing mildew with a 25-percent white vinegar solution or a commercial mildew cleaner.
- 5
  Place the swollen tiles in a dry, well-ventilated area to dry them out. Open windows, or run fans or a dehumidifier in the affected room to dry out the subflooring as quickly as possible.
- 6
  Vacuum the dry subflooring to remove any dirt that could interfere with the adhesive.
- 7
  Apply a thin layer of linoleum paste to the subflooring, and firmly press down the dry linoleum tiles to replace them.
- 8
  Weight the replaced tiles with bricks to keep them flat until the glue dries thoroughly.

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