Can You Install Vinyl Flooring Over Tile or Other Floors?
Types of Flooring Suitable for Vinyl Flooring Installation
Vinyl flooring, including tile, sheet, and plank varieties, is an excellent choice for remodeling kitchens and bathrooms due to its affordability, durability, and moisture resistance. It is relatively easy to install, allowing homeowners to complete small rooms within a day or two.
Traditionally, vinyl flooring is installed over plywood underlayment. However, it is possible to install vinyl flooring over existing floor coverings without removing them. Suitable substrates include:
- Concrete flooring
- Laminate flooring
- Existing vinyl flooring
- Solid hardwood flooring
- Engineered wood flooring
- Ceramic or stone tile
Preparing the Substrate
As with any flooring installation, proper preparation of the substrate is crucial for a long-lasting and beautiful floor. This is especially important for thin floor coverings like vinyl.
The existing floor covering now acts as the substrate for the vinyl flooring. Therefore, it must meet the same criteria as a traditional plywood subfloor:
- Sturdy and Solid: The substrate should be able to support the weight of the vinyl flooring and any furniture or appliances that will be placed on it.
- Seamless or Tightly Seamed: Large-format boards or underlayment sheets minimize seams, reducing the risk of imperfections telegraphing through the vinyl flooring.
- No Holes or Other Imperfections: Any high spots should be sanded down, and low spots should be filled.
- Little or No Embossing: Pronounced embossing on the substrate can eventually show through the vinyl flooring, especially with thinner boards.
- Dry Underneath: Moisture trapped between the vinyl flooring and the substrate can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- Acceptable Height: Adding another layer of flooring will increase the overall height. Ensure that the new flooring will not create clearance issues with doorways or transitions to other rooms.
Installing Vinyl Flooring Over Tile
Vinyl flooring can be installed directly over ceramic and porcelain tile flooring if the grout lines are very thin. Any cracked or missing tiles should be repaired or filled in. Wide seams between the tiles may create slight depressions in the vinyl flooring. If the tile floor has wide or deep seams, use an underlayment rather than installing the vinyl directly on the tile.
Installing Vinyl Flooring Over Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring can also serve as a substrate for vinyl flooring. However, like solid wood flooring, laminate can swell when exposed to water. Before installing vinyl flooring over laminate, ensure that the laminate is smooth, well-adhered, and free of high-moisture areas. If the laminate flooring is floating (not glued down), it is generally better to remove it and install the vinyl flooring directly on the subfloor.
Installing Vinyl Flooring Over Wood Flooring
Solid hardwood or engineered wood flooring can be used as a base for vinyl flooring. However, if the wood flooring has large gaps, these must be filled in first. Additionally, old solid hardwood flooring that has cupped or swelled over time may require an intervening underlayment before vinyl flooring can be installed.
Additional Considerations
- Moisture Control: Vinyl flooring is moisture-resistant but not waterproof. Ensure that the substrate is dry before installing vinyl flooring to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Height: Adding vinyl flooring over existing flooring will increase the overall height. Consider the impact on doorways, transitions, and furniture clearances.
- Professional Installation: While vinyl flooring is relatively easy to install, it is recommended to consult a professional installer for complex or large-scale projects.
By following these guidelines and carefully preparing the substrate, you can successfully install vinyl flooring over tile or other existing floor coverings, creating a beautiful and durable new floor for your home.
