How to Patch a Sheet Vinyl Floor

In this video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to make an undetectable repair to an existing resilient floor.

Steps:

1. Cut a repair patch from a flooring remnant. Make it at least four inches wider and longer than the damaged section of flooring.

2. Set the patch over the damaged section, making sure the pattern is aligned.

3. Secure the patch to the floor with painter’s tape.

4. Use trowel as a straightedge guide and cut through both the patch and the flooring below with a utility knife fitted with a brand-new blade.

5. Peel up the patch and then use a 6-in-1 painter’s tool to pry up the damaged section.

6. Scrape the subfloor clean of all dirt, grit and old adhesive.

7. Spread resilient-flooring adhesive onto the subfloor with a notched trowel.

8. Press the patch into place, then roll it down with a hand roller.

9. Apply a ⅛-inch bead of liquid seam sealer to the joints around the perimeter of the patch.

10. Allow the repair to dry for 24 hours.