Repair Loose Cork Tiles

If these instructions are properly followed, repair of loose tiles is possible. The effectiveness of this procedure is not guarantee.

Materials Required:

• Formica 100+ solvent based contact cement, available from a local Formica dealership.
• Large hypodermic needle, typically available in grocery stores where cooking utensils are located.
• Weights to hold down the floor after repairs.
• Mineral spirits to clean adhesive from the surface of the tile.
• Cork Tile adhesive (small areas).
• Putty knife with a flexible 1 1/2" - 2" blade
• Damp cloth to clean any adhesive from the surface of tile.

Procedure for Large Areas (tile can be partially lifted up, enough to see under)

1. Cut tile seam with a sharp utility knife.
2. Using a hypodermic needle, inject a small amount of contact adhesive under the tile. If adhesive comes up between the seam, too much is being used.
3. Push the tile down to ensure the adhesive spreads evenly under the tile.
4. Lift and support the tile so that air can get in to cure the adhesive.
5. Wait 15 minutes.
6. Push the tile down by hand, and then set the tile in place with a rubber mallet. Be sure to use sufficient force with the mallet to ensure proper adhesive contact.
7. Clean any adhesive from the tile with mineral spirits on a slightly dampened cloth. Do not soak tile with solvent or rub hard. Mineral spirits will remove wax finish (wax will need to be reapplied) and can dull a polyurethane finish if used excessively.

Procedure for Small Areas (tile cannot be lifted enough to allow air to circulate under tile for curing purposes.

1. Cut tile seam with sharp utility knife.
2. Using a hypodermic needle, inject adhesive under the tile. Enough should be injected to sufficiently adhere the tile.
3. Push down the tile and roll it with a hand roller.
4. Remove any excess adhesive with a slightly dampened rag.
5. Weight the repaired area with enough weight to hold down. Use point applied weight.
6. Remove weight after 24 hours.

Typically, lifted edges are due to improper acclimation time, misuse of adhesive (setting tile too soon or too late) or sub floor related problems (not cleaned prior to installation, excess moisture, etc.)