You don't need to replace your vinyl floor just because it's sustained some damage (figure A). If you have a scrap piece of the flooring material, you can install a patch that's practically undetectable. Cut a piece of scrap vinyl that matches the pattern around the damaged vinyl ( figure B). The piece should be about 4" longer and wider than the pattern around the damaged area. Match the pattern of the scrap vinyl to the vinyl on the floor, and tape it down with duct tape. Make sure the tape holds the piece securely, but don't cover the pattern around the damaged area. Using a straightedge and a sharp utility knife, cut along the lines of the pattern. Hold the utility knife straight up and down, and cut along the break of the line rather than the center of the pattern line. First, score the vinyl, then press firmly so that the blade goes through the patch and the floor vinyl. It will probably take a few passes to cut through the vinyl. After you've cut out the pattern, remove the tape, and take out the damaged vinyl. You may need to use a putty knife to break the vinyl away from the adhesive (figure C). Clean off the old adhesive, and dry-fit the patch. Use the utility knife to trim the patch where necessary and bevel the bottom edges (figure D). Beveled edges will help the patch sit properly. Use the putty knife to apply an even coat of vinyl floor adhesive to the floor (figure E). Press the patch into place. Clean the seams with a damp rag, and lay a heavy object on the patch for the recommended drying time of the adhesive. After the adhesive has dried, clean the seam of the patch, and mix a vinyl seam sealer. The sealer will melt the seam together so that it blends in with the rest of the floor. Next Weekend Project: Replacing a Garbage Disposal Weekend Projects Index
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