One of the big questions homeowners in the St. Louis, Ladue, and Webster Groves areas ask when considering new flooring is whether they can simply install it over their existing floor to save time and money.
When it comes to laminate flooring, the answer is often yes, but with a few very important caveats. Understanding the dos and don'ts of can you install laminate flooring over existing floors is key to a successful, long-lasting installation.
The Yes: Which Floors are Suitable?
The good news is that you can often install laminate flooring over several types of existing hard-surface floors, as long as they are in good condition.
- Vinyl and Linoleum: As long as the vinyl or linoleum is securely adhered to the subfloor and is flat, a laminate floor can be installed directly on top.
- Wood: Installing laminate over a well-maintained hardwood or engineered wood floor is generally acceptable. The key is to ensure the existing floor is flat and free of loose planks.
- Tile: You can install laminate over a ceramic or stone tile floor, but it's important to make sure the grout lines are not too deep. It may be necessary to fill them in with a leveling compound to create a flat surface.
The No: Which Floors are NOT Suitable?
- Carpet: You can never install laminate flooring directly over carpet, for two main reasons. First, carpet is too soft and will not provide a stable, solid base for the laminate. Second, the moisture and dirt trapped in the carpet will cause damage to the laminate's wood fiber core.
- Heavily Cushioned Floors: Any floor that has a soft, cushioned feel, like a heavily padded vinyl, is not suitable.
Essential Preparation Steps
Even with a suitable existing floor, preparation is everything.
- Check for Flatness: Your existing floor must be flat. Any dips or bumps will cause the laminate's locking system to fail and the floor to feel unstable.
- Clean and Dry: Ensure the floor is completely clean and dry before installation.
- Use an Underlayment: Most laminate flooring requires an underlayment, which can provide a moisture barrier and a bit of cushioning, even when installed over another hard surface.
While it is possible to install laminate over existing floors, professional installation is always the best way to ensure the job is done correctly, giving you peace of mind and protecting your warranty.
Consult the Installation Experts at Flooring Galaxy in St. Louis, MO
So, can you install laminate flooring over existing floors? The answer is yes, with the right prep and professional help. Our family-run team at Flooring Galaxy is a St. Louis owned flooring retailer for over 10 years, and we have the expertise to ensure your laminate installation is a complete success. Call or Visit Flooring Galaxy. We have showroom locations in Brentwood, MO, Arnold, MO, and St Peters, MO. We service the areas of St. Louis, Ladue, Webster Groves, Kirkwood, and Clayton, MO.
