Repairs for linoleum

Press, 16 February 1978, Page 19

Repairs for linoleum

Where linoleum has loosened at the joints, it can be refastened by lifting the loose section by inserting a piece of thin timber.

All dust and dirt should be scraped away, leaving the underside of the lino and the floor thoroughly clean.

Then give both surfaces a coat of good linoleum adhesive, after which the linoleum is pressed firmly back into position, working from inwards towards the joints so that any surplus adhesive oozes out.

A small roller, if available, is excellent for this purpose. If necessary, scrape the seam so that the edges are flush. For large holes or damaged portions, cut matching pieces, using a sharp knife, a straight edge, and a smoothing board for a cutting surface.

Having cut the patching piece to the required size, lay it in position and cut out the damaged part. The new piece should fit perfectly into place. Secure wifh adhesive. On patterned material, cut along the straight lines of the design: or failing this, slip a larger piece under the worn section and cut through both to get a perfect patch. Apply the adhesive and weight it with some heavy flat object.

Wash the lino at regular intervals to keep dirt and grit from wearing through the finished surface.

Protect the floor by padding sharp edges around the bottoms of refrigerators, cookers and washing machines. Leather, felt or thick canvas allows the units to slide easily. C.oat the pads

with adhesive that sticks to porcelain, glass or metal. For small holes up to 8-20 cm diameter, scrape thin shavings of waste linoleum of similar colour and mix them with linoleum lacquer. The mixing should be the consistency of putty and should be pressed firmly into the hole or crack.