Transforming Your Small Bathroom: A Comprehensive Guide to Laying Lino
Embarking on a DIY bathroom renovation project? Laying lino is an affordable and effective way to revamp your small bathroom's flooring. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a professional finish that withstands the test of time. Let's dive in!
Preparation: The Key to a Successful Lino Lay
Before you start, prepare your bathroom for a smooth lino installation. Here's what you'll need to do:
- Remove any existing flooring, ensuring the subfloor is clean and dry.
- Check for and repair any damage to the subfloor.
- Prime the subfloor using a suitable primer to prevent moisture from penetrating the lino.
- Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
Choosing the Right Lino for Your Small Bathroom
Selecting the perfect lino involves considering factors like durability, style, and maintenance. For small bathrooms, opt for:

- Small-scale patterns or solid colors to create the illusion of a larger space.
- Moisture-resistant lino to withstand the humid environment.
- Easy-to-clean surfaces for low-maintenance upkeep.
Tools and Materials Needed
Gather the following tools and materials before you begin:
- Lino flooring
- Lino adhesive
- Tape measure
- Cutter or Stanley knife
- Notched trowel
- Screwdriver or chisel for cutting around obstacles
- Hammer
- Underlay (if required)
Measuring and Planning
Accurate measurement is crucial for a seamless lino installation. Here's how to measure your bathroom:
- Measure the length and width of your bathroom.
- Add 5% to your measurements to account for wastage.
- Plan your lino layout, ensuring you start from the largest wall and work your way across.
Laying Lino: Step-by-Step
Now that you've prepared your bathroom and gathered your materials, it's time to lay your lino. Follow these steps:

- Start in the corner farthest from the door, laying the first lino strip along the wall.
- Apply adhesive to the subfloor using a notched trowel, ensuring even coverage.
- Press the lino strip firmly into the adhesive, using a roller or your hands to ensure a strong bond.
- Lay the next strip, overlapping the first by the width of the lino's pattern or at least 2 inches.
- Cut lino strips to fit around obstacles like toilets, sinks, and pipes using a cutter or Stanley knife.
- Secure the lino in place using double-sided tape or by nailing it to the baseboards.
- Allow the adhesive to dry completely before using your bathroom.
Caring for Your New Lino Floor
Proper maintenance ensures your lino floor remains in excellent condition for years to come. Here's how to care for your new flooring:
- Clean spills promptly to prevent staining.
- Use a mild detergent and warm water for regular cleaning.
- Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the lino's surface.
- Place mats at entryways to protect the lino from dirt and grit.
By following this comprehensive guide, you'll transform your small bathroom into a stylish and functional space. Happy renovating!