Although not always straightforward, in principle there is no reason why wood flooring can’t be installed over vinyl flooring. However, like all things, that principle comes with certain caveats.
One of the most important things which will need to be clarified before installing wood floor over vinyl is the make up of the subfloor beneath the vinyl floor. One of the key things stressed by all wood floor suppliers is that wood flooring should be installed over an appropriate subfloor. Appropriate subfloors include existing wood flooring and concrete. Such subfloors create a stable base for the installation of your new wood floor.
Once you have established that your vinyl floor has been laid over an appropriate subfloor for your new wooden floor, you will then need to check out is whether or not the vinyl flooring is properly and securely attached to that subfloor. It if happens that the vinyl flooring is not well secured to the subfloor, then it could ultimately cause movement in the new wood floor.
Thereafter, if your vinyl flooring is laid over existing floorboards, it is important to establish the direction in which the old boards are running. This is important because when laying new boards over old, it is essential that the new boards run perpendicular (or at 90 degrees) to the old boards for stability.
Whether or not the vinyl is cushioned is a further important consideration. In some instances, a cushioned vinyl could cause your new floor to squeak. While certain types of squeak can be minimised by the introduction of an appropriate underlay, it’s essential to make sure that you are installing your new floor over the right type of subfloor and not creating problems for later. If you are in any doubt whatsoever, then it’s well worth asking the advice of a professional.
One final thing to bear in mind, particularly if you are thinking of installing new wood flooring over vinyl in a renovation project is that it’s not outside the bounds of possibility that there could be a really attractive original floor lurking under the vinyl! For many years, vinyl was laid over perfectly good wood flooring to create a more ‘up to date’ (at the time) look. The end result is that the original wood flooring (aka reclaimed wood flooring) could be waiting under the vinyl, just waiting for its renaissance.
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FAQ
1. Can wood flooring be installed over vinyl flooring?
Yes, in principle, wood flooring can be installed over vinyl flooring. However, this comes with certain caveats, including the type and stability of the subfloor, as well as how securely the vinyl flooring is attached to it.
2. What kind of subfloor is appropriate for installing wood flooring over vinyl?
Appropriate subfloors for installing wood flooring over vinyl include existing wood flooring and concrete. These types of subfloors create a stable base for the new wood floor installation.
3. What should I check before installing wood flooring over vinyl?
Before installing wood flooring over vinyl, ensure that the vinyl flooring is properly and securely attached to the subfloor. If it is not, it could cause movement in the new wood floor. Also, if the vinyl flooring is over existing floorboards, the direction of the old boards should be noted. The new boards should run perpendicular, or at 90 degrees, to the old ones for stability.
4. Does cushioned vinyl affect the installation of wood flooring?
Yes, it can. In some instances, a cushioned vinyl can cause the new floor to squeak. While this can be minimized with the right underlay, it’s essential to ensure that you’re installing your new floor over the right type of subfloor and not creating problems for later.
5. Is it possible to find original wood flooring under the vinyl?
Yes, it is possible. For many years, vinyl was laid over perfectly good wood flooring for a more contemporary look. As a result, the original wood flooring, also known as reclaimed wood flooring, could be hidden under the vinyl, awaiting rediscovery and restoration.