Linoleum is a great low-maintenance and low-cost flooring option that is water resistant and fairly easy to clean, however, if you’re looking to update your space, there are a few types of flooring that can go over the existing linoleum.
These include:
• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Luxury vinyl plank flooring provides many of the same benefits as linoleum and is often considered a more modern option. It replicates the look of hardwood and is available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
Like linoleum, it is water-resistant and easy to clean.
• Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: Tile can be a great way to update the look of any space and is an especially popular option in bathrooms or kitchens. It is also a good water-resistant choice which makes it ideal for areas with potential moisture.
It can be a more expensive option, however.
• Engineered Wood: Engineered wood is a composite of several layers of wood and is able to withstand temperature and humidity changes due to its construction. Like tile, it is a more expensive flooring option that can provide a high-end look to your space.
• Carpeting: Carpet may not be the most water-resistant choice, but it is a great way to add warmth to your home. Carpeting can now come with a moisture-resistant backing making it an ideal flooring choice for places with potential moisture.
Regardless of what type of flooring you choose, you should make sure it is installed by a professional for best results.
Is it OK to lay laminate flooring over linoleum?
Yes, it is generally ok to lay laminate flooring over linoleum. However, it is important to ensure that the linoleum is in good condition before installing the laminate flooring. This means removing any dirt and grime and ensuring that all loose patches are firmly adhered to the subfloor.
It is also important to look for signs of cracking, peeling, or bubbling in the linoleum, as this could indicate that the underlying material has become compromised and the laminate floor should not be installed.
Once the clean and solid surface is prepared, the laminate planks should be able to be directly placed over the linoleum without the need for underlayment. However, having further cushioning between the subfloor and laminate is never a bad idea, and a foam underlayment can be added for extra soundproofing and added protection.
Do you have to remove old linoleum before putting down laminate?
Yes, old linoleum should be removed before putting down laminate. Laminate flooring needs a hard, flat, and clean surface for proper installation. Linoleum is made of a soft material and if it is not removed prior to installation, it can cause unevenness in the subflooring.
It is also important to remove any debris or foreign objects that may be stuck in the old linoleum. This will cause pits in the resulting laminate flooring and should be avoided. It is also advisable to skim coat any damaged subflooring with a Level Set® to help ensure that the laminate has a smooth and flat surface to adhere to.
After the old linoleum is removed, it is essential to clean the subflooring and make sure there is no dust or debris that could affect the bond of the laminate to the subfloor.
Do I need to remove linoleum before laying vinyl tile?
Yes, you must remove the linoleum before laying vinyl tile. Even though vinyl tile is made to go over existing vinyl, linoleum and other similar flooring, there are several issues that could arise by leaving the linoleum in place.
One of the main issues is that the two different surfaces can cause the adhesive used to secure the tiles to fail and cause the tiles to come loose or fail to adhere correctly. This is especially true if the linoleum was installed long ago, as the age of it could cause it to shrink and warp, preventing a good bond.
Additionally, if the linoleum is padded, the vinyl tiles will not lay properly, creating a very unprofessional look. Finally, if the linoleum is in poor condition, the rough surface under it could cause the adhesive to fail prematurely, leading to a weak bond between the tiles and the existing floor.
For these reasons, it is advisable to remove the linoleum before laying vinyl tile.
Do I need underlayment for laminate flooring over vinyl?
Yes, you should use underlayment when installing laminate flooring over vinyl. Underlayment provides a number of benefits, including moisture protection, improved comfort underfoot, sound absorption, and support for the laminate planks.
It also helps to keep the planks from shifting, creaking, and potentially damaging the vinyl underneath. When selecting an underlayment, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure the type you choose is compatible with the type of vinyl you have.
Additionally, use a vapor barrier for moisture control, and make sure to use seaming tape to seal the joints between the underlayment pieces. It is important to take the time to properly install the underlayment and follow the manufacturer’s instructions in order to get the most benefit.
Can you lay new flooring over old flooring?
In some cases, it is possible to lay new flooring over old flooring. This depends on the type of existing flooring, the type of new flooring, and the desired results. Hardwood floors, laminate, tile, and other types of hard surface flooring can sometimes be laid over existing flooring if the old floor is in good condition and solid enough to support the new floor.
The same is true for vinyl. However, carpets and padding should be removed when laying new flooring as the new flooring installation may not be able to conform to the contours of the old, uneven floor surface.
Additionally, the height of the new flooring should be taken into consideration when laying it over the old floor. If the new flooring is too thick or too high compared to the existing floor, doors may not be able to open or trim may have to be removed.
Also, if the new flooring is too heavy, the old floor may not be able to support it and result in an uneven and unstable surface.
It is important to note that some flooring manufacturers may void warranties and not honor their warranties if the new flooring is installed over existing flooring. Therefore, it is best to check the flooring manufacturer’s recommendations before attempting to lay the new flooring over the old.
Do you have to remove old vinyl flooring before installing new vinyl flooring?
Yes, it is necessary to remove old vinyl flooring before installing new vinyl flooring. Removing the old flooring allows you to make sure that the surface beneath the floor is even, free of any debris, and in good condition.
This will help provide a smoother and more secure base for the new vinyl flooring. In addition, the adhesive used for the new vinyl flooring must be applied to a clean, dry surface for it to adhere properly.
If any old adhesive remains on the surface, it can cause the new adhesive and flooring to fail. Further, the seams or grout lines between the old and new floors can create an undesirable appearance. By removing the old vinyl flooring, you can create a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing look with the new flooring.
What is the easiest way to remove linoleum flooring?
Removing linoleum flooring is relatively easy, but it can be a time-consuming job. Here are some steps you can take to make the process easier:
1. Start by removing any trim pieces that may be around the edges of the linoleum. Use a utility knife to carefully detach them from the wall and set aside for later.
2. Fill a spray bottle with hot water and spray the flooring, especially around any seams or edges. This should get the adhesive underneath the linoleum loosened.
3. Use a floor scraper to start pulling up the linoleum. It may take some time and you may need to soak the floor with more hot water if it’s not coming up easily.
4. Once the linoleum is removed, use a damp cloth or mop to clean the floor and remove any remaining adhesive. Let the floor dry completely before continuing.
5. Once dry, you can install new flooring, such as tile or hardwood flooring, or simply leave the concrete subfloor.
How hard is it to replace linoleum?
Replacing linoleum can seem like a daunting task, but with proper preparation and tools, the process is pretty straightforward. Before beginning the job, it is important to make sure the floor is completely dry and free of dirt, dust, and other debris.
Additionally, it is important to assess the condition of the existing subfloor and make sure it is in good condition and properly supported as linoleum can be stubborn and difficult to remove — so you may have to do some repair work before you can begin.
Once you’ve taken the necessary steps to prepare the job site and make sure the subfloor is in good condition, you can begin removing the old linoleum. A stiff putty knife and razor blade should do the trick.
Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses, as pieces of linoleum will come up quickly and can be quite sharp.
Once you’ve removed all the old linoleum, sweep the floor and be sure to check the subfloor for any damaged areas — like cracks or holes — and repair them when necessary. Once the subfloor is ready, you can lay down your new linoleum.
This can be done in a variety of ways, including using a pressure sensitive adhesive, pre-glued sheets, or self-adhesive tiles.
Once you have your linoleum in place, you can trim it around baseboards, corners, and edges. Finally, finish the job off by sealing the edges around the perimeter with a finishing trim and you’ll be good to go.
Although replacing linoleum isn’t the easiest project, it is definitely doable if the necessary steps are taken — and the tools and materials are on hand — so don’t be intimidated by it.
Do I need to remove old vinyl flooring?
Yes, old vinyl flooring needs to be removed before new flooring can be installed. Several steps are required to remove the old flooring and make sure the area is properly prepared for the new vinyl. First, you need to remove any trim and baseboards that are along the perimeter of the room.
Then, you will need to remove any furniture, appliances, or other obstructions from the floor. Once these items are cleared, you need to use a scraper or heat gun to loosen the vinyl from the subfloor.
Once the old flooring has been completely removed, you need to use a putty knife to remove the old adhesive from the subfloor. Then, the subfloor must be cleaned and any holes or cracks should be filled and smoothed for the installation of the new vinyl.