I am having a heck of a time trying to remove self stick tiles on kitchen floor and ultimately removing the sticky stuff that they leave behind. I would really appreciate any suggestions. Thanks
Linda from, New York City
We replaced our entire kitchen/dining room floor last spring and had to take up the old vinyl tiles first. As you are discovering, they are very difficult to pry up and extremely sticky. As far as I can tell, there is "no way" to remove the sticky stuff off the floor. What was recommended to us was to paint over the adhesive with primer (just regular wall paint) and then use a substance over that to level the entire floor.
After spending the better part of a weekend prying up tiles, we decided to simply replace the particleboard underflooring. It was much easier. You just have to make sure that you fill in any gaps and screw holes because anything that sticks up or dips will show through your new tile. Good luck. I've been so much happier with my new floor. (11/20/2007)
By Jess
My husband does this for a living and he uses a hair dryer, give it time. It will work. Good luck. (11/20/2007)
By vee
My mother used a clothes iron. She covered the tile with a damp towel and ironed away. Then she took a wide putty knife and pried up the tiles before they could cool down. (11/22/2007)
By Juanita
Be careful. If these are older tiles, they may contain asbestos! Anything produced before 1986 may contain asbestos. If released into your house, it will circulate around your home via central heat/air system posing a health hazard. (12/01/2007)
By Amanda
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