What Flooring Can Be Laid Over Vinyl?

Laminate and Wood

• You can install laminate flooring over vinyl without any problems. However, an underlayment is necessary. This provides a better surface for the planks and helps to prevent moisture buildup between the flooring types. Hardwood floors need a solid subfloor. In this instance, cover the vinyl flooring with a floating plywood subfloor. For both laminate and hardwood, clean the vinyl thoroughly and wait until it is completely dry before you begin installation.

Carpet

• Installing carpet directly over vinyl flooring is not recommended. Moisture can get between the vinyl and the carpet and encourage mold. The two exceptions are vinyl asbestos tile and vinyl composition tile. You can glue carpeting on either of these tiles. Do not use a carpet pad, as it poses a moisture risk.

Floor Tile

• You can lay floor tiles made of ceramic, marble, slate and even glass over vinyl flooring. But you need to put down a tile underlayment fabric over the vinyl. This provides a better surface for the tile adhesive and ensures a level surface. The mortar is spread over this thin skin, and the tile is laid on top of that. Failing to use an underlayment can cause an uneven floor, especially if the vinyl is tile and not sheet.

Vinyl Tiles and Linoleum

• You can install vinyl peel-and-stick tiles over vinyl flooring. Proper preparation is key in this case. Clean the floor thoroughly to remove grease and dirt. Let the floor dry, and then vacuum to remove dirt, which will interfere with the adhesive backing of the new tile. You can lay linoleum over vinyl flooring, but once again, clean the surface thoroughly to ensure a good, strong bond with the adhesive and to eliminate the potential for bumps in the new floor.