How to replace vinyl in laundry?

[JBlondebrick]

Hi all, we are looking at replacing the old lino in our 1960s house.

I am wondering if we remove the old cracked vinyl, do we have to waterproof the floor?  We are looking to put new lino on top.

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @JBlondebrick. It's great to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about waterproofing a laundry.

Laundries are considered wet areas and, as such, must comply with waterproofing standards set out in the building codes. The floor needs to be waterproofed, and the walls as well up to 150mm from floor level.

If your laundry is already waterproofed and you don't damage it by lifting the existing vinyl, then I can't see any reason why you'd need to waterproof it again.

Please let me know if you have further questions.

Mitchell

[JBlondebrick]

Thanks @MitchellMc 

If the laundry does not have waterproofing as it looks like it hasn't been touched since the requirements came in, and I pull up the lino, then I would have to waterproof it? If I lay a new lino on top I would not?

[MitchellMc]

For the laundry to comply with codes, you must add waterproofing, @JBlondebrick. If you're ever planning on selling the house, it would be wise to take this opportunity whilst the flooring is up to waterproof. Checking for adequate waterproofing in wet areas is part of a pre-purchase building and pest inspection. Apart from that, it's just a good investment ensuring that no structural damage or decay can occur from moisture. 

Mitchell

[JBlondebrick]

le sigh.  The last owner basically moved because too many things broke or need cleaning and we're a bit over it all.  We did have an inspection, but the last time it was renovated the standards didn't apply.  

Thanks again!