How to Fix Bubbles in Linoleum

There's nothing more frustrating than the bubbles that can form under sheet flooring like vinyl and linoleum. The result is a floor that looks uneven and blistered. Fortunately, this can be repaired without having to replace the entire floor.

When fixing bubbled linoleum, you'll need the following tools:

• Sheet flooring adhesive (specifically for linoleum)
• Metal straight edge
• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Rubber gloves
• Straight board
• Several cloths
• Heavy weight (i.e. full paint can)

After you've gathered these items, you can start removing the unsightly blisters.

1. You'll want to begin by cutting each linoleum bubble open with a utility knife. Do this by making an incision in the center of the bubble and cutting it from one end to the other. When making each cut, use the metal straight edge to keep the incision aligned.
   
   
2. After the bubble has been cut, press the edges of the open bubble down until it's completely flattened. If the edges of the two semi-circles overlap, trim until the overlap is gone.
   
   
3. Once steps 1 and 2 are completed, you'll want to cut and lift up the edge of the linoleum tile where the bubble is located in order to apply the adhesive. Scrape away any old adhesive underneath with a putty knife.
   
   
4. After you've adequately removed the old adhesive, it's time to apply the new adhesive (remember to wear gloves when handling adhesive). Using a clean putty knife spread the adhesive onto the underlayment until it's thoroughly covered.
   
   
5. Before being pressed into place, the adhesive will need to sit for a while (duration depends on the brand of adhesive being used).
6. Press the loose edge down. With a damp cloth, wipe up any excess adhesive that oozes out.
   
   
7. Finish up by laying out a clean cloth along the linoleum floor section you just fixed and place a flat board on top. On top of the board you'll want to put something heavy, such as a full paint can. Leave this in place until the adhesive dries (confirm dry-time on the can/bottle of adhesive).

If your linoleum flooring bubbles often, you may want to look into getting a tool specifically for filling in linoleum blisters that are up to 3 square inches in size. The tool is basically a metal-needled syringe that can inject adhesive directly into the blister without having to lift up the entire linoleum floor tile.

If your linoleum floors are less than a year old and are starting to bubble, you may want to contact the linoleum manufacturer. Also, when removing or repairing vinyl or linoleum flooring installed before 1986, handle with care, as it could contain asbestos. Learn more about asbestos in our article: "The Dangers of Asbestos Floor Covering."