Can Laminate Flooring Be Installed Over Linoleum?

If you’re looking to revamp the flooring in your home, you may be wondering whether or not it’s possible to install laminate flooring over your existing linoleum. The answer is… it depends. There are a few factors to consider before you can make a final decision. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether or not laminate flooring can be installed over linoleum and what you need to know before you get started.

Before we dive in, let’s define what we mean by linoleum. Linoleum is a type of flooring that’s made from natural materials like linseed oil, resin, and wood flour. It was a popular choice for flooring in the early 1900s and has made a comeback in recent years due to its eco-friendliness and durability. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is a synthetic flooring material that’s made by fusing several layers of material together, including a high-density fiberboard core and a photographic layer that mimics the look of wood or stone.

Factors to Consider

Now that we have a basic understanding of what linoleum and laminate flooring are, let’s take a closer look at the factors you need to consider before installing laminate over linoleum.

Condition of the linoleum

The first thing you need to consider is the condition of your existing linoleum. If it’s in good condition, meaning it’s level, clean, and free from any tears or damage, then it’s possible to install laminate over it. However, if the linoleum is uneven, damaged, or has any moisture issues, then you’ll need to remove it before installing laminate.

Thickness of the laminate

The thickness of the laminate you choose is also important. If you opt for a thicker laminate, it can help to mask any imperfections in the linoleum and provide a more stable base for the new flooring. Thinner laminates, on the other hand, may not be able to mask imperfections as well and can be more prone to shifting or buckling.

Type of subfloor

The type of subfloor you have is also an important factor to consider. If you have a concrete subfloor, it’s possible to install laminate over linoleum. However, if you have a wooden subfloor, it’s recommended that you remove the linoleum first to prevent any moisture issues and ensure a more stable base for the new flooring.

Installation Process

If you’ve determined that it’s possible to install laminate over your existing linoleum, then the installation process is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:

1. Clean and level the existing linoleum.
2. Install a vapor barrier over the linoleum to prevent any moisture issues.
3. Lay down the underlayment for the new laminate flooring.
4. Install the laminate flooring according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It’s important to note that while it’s possible to install laminate over linoleum, it’s not recommended to install any type of flooring over multiple layers of existing flooring. This can make the flooring too thick and unstable, which can lead to shifting, buckling, or other issues.

Conclusion

So, can laminate flooring be installed over linoleum? The answer is yes, but it depends on a few factors like the condition of the existing linoleum, the thickness of the laminate, and the type of subfloor you have. If you’ve determined that it’s possible to install laminate over your linoleum, then the installation process is relatively straightforward. However, it’s important to remember that it’s not recommended to install any type of flooring over multiple layers of existing flooring.

If you’re unsure whether or not it’s possible to install laminate over your existing linoleum, it’s always a good idea to consult with a flooring professional. They can assess the condition of your existing flooring and help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation.