Reparing a seam on a vinyl floor

October 23, 2000

Question from: John
Dundas, ON

Dear Shell,

We have a white vinyl floor installed by the builder in 1990. (I don't know the exact brand or type.) There is a seam that extends the width of the room that appears to be opening up in the traffic areas. It was an invisible seam until recently. I'd like to repair these gaps before it gets worse or the flooring gets damaged. Any suggestions?

Thanks, John

Dear John,

The substrate underneath is moving (contraction) causing stress at the seam hence the tearing of the seam. I suggest the following:
1. Purchase a bottle of vinyl seam sealer.
2. Warm the area with a hair dryer, knead with your thumb inside a tablespoon to close the seam. (It must be clean)
3. Insert nozzle into seam and inject the seam weld. Keep the area around the seam warm until cured.

It’s just that easy.

Shell Busey