Sticky Goo under 3 layers of Old Flooring

There seems to be a sticky black goo underneath the flooring you're replacing. What do you do? Here's our advice.

Laura smith asked:

"We lifted three layers of flooring in our kitchen in preparation for laying a roll of new vinyl flooring, and under the third layer (creamy coloured vinyl tiles) we found gross black goo gluing it to the concrete. The tiles sort of peeled up off of the goo, which is very viscous and sticky, and not hard or dry. What if anything should we do before the new flooring goes down?"

Paul advised: The 'gross black goo' is likely adhesive and needs to be removed prior to the installation of any new floor covering using a scraper or wide bladed pallet knife.

Once the old flooring and adhesive is removed we would normally advise a 3mm application of screed be applied to the floor. This will provide a smooth surface to accept the new floor covering.

NB. Some resilient tiles and adhesives can contain asbestos. In case of doubt, contact the relevant local authority for advice on their removal and disposal. Also see the HSE Guidance.