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bigred1cav's avatar
bigred1cav
Explorer
Apr 30, 2021

INSTALL TILE TAKE UP CARPET

I need detailed instructions on removing the carpet and replacing it with tile of some sort. Photo's also, I know nothing of how to approach this task

Thank all of you

19 Replies

  • Either way I would avoid "tile". Actual ceramic tile is thick and heavy and prone to cracking in an RV. Linoleum tiles need to be glued down so you need a proper substrate and if they lift getting them up is going to be a nightmare.

    Use sheet goods instead. It does not need to be glued, will not peel up or crack.

    Actually I went to from sheet linoleum to carpet several years ago. I really like the carpet on cold evenings when it feels great to kick off the shoes after a day of hiking. I though it would be hard to keep clean but I pull out the entire piece and shake it. It is indoor/outdoor carpet so I can even wash it.
  • ... tile of some sort...

    Not sure if he's talking, Actual Tile, or a linoleum type squares. Big difference in weight and ease of installing.
  • Good advice here. I removed my carpet (except for under the dinnnette table because it was still nice) replaced it with a left over piece of linolium. Came out great. Got a aluminium strip (forgot the real name) for the transition at the edge under the table.
  • Not sure if you considered alternatives, but interlocking engineered hardwood or laminate is much easier to install. If you buy a good grade, not cheapo, it's probably even less cost than tile and has no cracking grout or separating seams. And it will take road vibration without problem. Most flooring stores carry it, including HD or Lowe's. It generally has a forty-year surface wear warranty.

    You can buy it in varied designs, including a Tile-Look.

    I installed it in my home and my RV. Would do it again in either ...

    I recommend looking at it before you begin a tile operation.

    PS... Carpet is easy to rip-out. Then tear out the tack-strips that hold it down, and any random staples ... make sure you get every one.
  • Did you check YouTube? That may have the detailed instructions you need.
  • What are you putting the tile into?
    - A heavily built diesel pusher with 3/4 plywood floor and plenty of stiff joists, it may be viable.
    - A lightly built low end travel trailer with the foam plywood sandwich floor, expect a lot of cracked tiles in a short time period.

    Also, you need to consider the operation of the slides. Many are designed to use the carpet as a surface to slide on...hence why the industry moved away from vinyl flooring.
  • Lift up a section of carpet to see what you are dealing with...if you could lay the tile without modification.

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